Until the mid 1700s, the alto recorder was much more popular than the traverso, or Baroque flute. Unlike modern flutes, the traverso had a softer, more delicate sound, was made of wood, and was known for its graceful, mellow tone, perfect for the elegant dance-inspired music of that era.
The flute eventually replaced the recorder in popularity during the late 18th and early 19th century due to its greater dynamic range and expressive capabilities, which allowed for more versatility in both solo and orchestral settings as music evolved toward a more dramatic and expansive style.
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