Yamaha YRA-28B Alto Recorder Instruction Manual

Introduction

The Yamaha YRA-28B Alto Recorder is a high-quality musical instrument designed for both beginners and experienced players. Crafted from durable ABS plastic, this 3-piece recorder features a straight rectangular airway, contributing to its clear, expressive tone across all registers. This manual provides essential information for the proper assembly, playing, maintenance, and care of your instrument.

Figure 1: Assembled Yamaha YRA-28B Alto Recorder.

Included Components

Your Yamaha YRA-28B Alto Recorder package includes the following items:

• Yamaha YRA-28B Alto Recorder (3 pieces)
• Cotton carrying bag
• Fingering chart
• Cleaning rod
• Joint grease

Figure 2: Yamaha YRA-28B Alto Recorder in its protective carrying bag.

Setup

1. Assembly

1. Carefully remove all three sections of the recorder from the carrying bag: the head joint (mouthpiece), the middle joint, and the foot joint.
2. Apply a small amount of the included joint grease to the cork or plastic joints of the middle and foot sections. This ensures smooth assembly and prevents damage.
3. Gently twist the middle joint onto the head joint. Align the finger holes for comfortable playing.
4. Attach the foot joint to the middle joint, twisting gently. Ensure the holes on the foot joint are aligned with the lower finger holes of the middle joint for proper fingering.

2. Holding the Recorder

Hold the recorder with your left hand at the top (head joint) and your right hand at the bottom (foot joint). Your left thumb covers the back hole, and your left index, middle, and ring fingers cover the top three holes. Your right thumb supports the recorder from underneath, and your right index, middle, ring, and pinky fingers cover the remaining holes. Ensure a relaxed grip to allow for agile finger movement.

Operating (Playing the Recorder)

1. Embouchure and Breathing

Place the mouthpiece gently between your lips, forming a soft seal. Avoid biting or applying excessive pressure. Breathe from your diaphragm and blow a steady, gentle stream of air into the recorder. The goal is to produce a clear, consistent tone without excessive breathiness or squeaking.

2. Fingering

The Yamaha YRA-28B uses Baroque fingering. Refer to the included fingering chart for specific finger positions for each note. Ensure all holes are completely covered by your fingertips to produce clear notes. Partially covered holes will result in airy or incorrect tones.

Figure 3: Illustration of the straight rectangular airway, designed for ease of play.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning After Each Use

• Disassemble the recorder into its three sections.
• Thread a soft, lint-free cloth through the cleaning rod.
• Gently push the cloth through each section of the recorder to remove moisture and condensation.
• Wipe the exterior of the recorder with a clean, dry cloth.

2. Joint Care

Periodically check the joints for dryness. If they appear dry or assembly becomes difficult, reapply a small amount of joint grease. This prevents wear and tear and ensures a proper seal between sections.

3. Storage

When not in use, store the disassembled recorder in its cotton bag. This protects it from dust, dirt, and temperature fluctuations. Avoid storing the recorder in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.

Troubleshooting

• Squeaky Sound: This often indicates that a finger hole is not completely covered, or you are blowing too hard. Ensure all holes are sealed and use a softer breath.
• Difficulty Producing Notes: Check your fingering against the chart. Ensure the joints are properly assembled and sealed. Condensation in the windway can also cause this; clean the recorder thoroughly.
• Airy or Weak Tone: This can be due to insufficient breath support or improper embouchure. Practice blowing a steady, focused stream of air.

Specifications

Warranty Information

Yamaha Corporation of America (Yamaha) provides a 1-year manufacturer warranty for this product. Yamaha is proud of the experience and craftsmanship that goes into every product we represent. Yamaha sells its products through a network of authorized Yamaha retailers. Only these authorized retailers are equipped with sales and service support materials and training that are not readily available to non-authorized retailers. The Yamaha limited warranty applies only to products that have been purchased from an authorized Yamaha retailer in the fifty United States (including the District of Columbia) and used in this area. For more information, please review the Yamaha limited warranty for this product on the official Yamaha website.

Support

For additional assistance, product registration, or to locate an authorized service center, please visit the official Yamaha website or contact Yamaha customer support. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.