The recorder is a great instrument for playing traditional music. I generally prefer a descant recorder to a whistle, though I can play both.

However, if you want to explore the recorder repertoire, you really do need to learn to read music. I learnt to read music alongside learning to play the recorder. Most recorder tutors teach the elements of music notation at the same time as teaching the basic fingerings.

The best thing however, is to get a teacher and, if possible one who really understands the recorder. The recorder is not a flute or clarinet or whatever, even though it was referred to as "flute" at one time.

You may find that the musical director of the local branch of Society of Recorder Players gives lessons.