Shape: A recorder is a relatively simple instrument with a straight body and a small mouthpiece. A flute, on the other hand, has a more complex shape with a curved head joint, a body with keys and holes, and a foot joint.
Sound: The sound of a recorder is typically soft and mellow, while the sound of a flute is more bright and piercing. This is due to the different ways that the instruments are played. A recorder is played by blowing air into the mouthpiece, while a flute is played by blowing air across a hole in the head joint.
Range: The recorder has a limited range of about two octaves, while the flute has a wider range of about three octaves. This means that the flute can play higher and lower notes than the recorder.
Technique: The recorder is a relatively easy instrument to learn, while the flute is more difficult. This is because the flute requires a more precise embouchure (the way the player's lips and mouth are positioned) and more coordination between the fingers and the breath.
Repertoire: The recorder has a large repertoire of music that was written specifically for the instrument. The flute also has a large repertoire, but it also includes music that was originally written for other instruments, such as the violin or the piano.
Overall, the recorder and the flute are two different instruments with different sounds, ranges, techniques, and repertoires.