[Kevin]

I think of 37 keys as a resource that can be used.
My car has a speedometer that reads over 100. I may never drive it that fast and I might not handle it very well going that speed. Point of fact I hover around the speed limit.
However I would feel limited if there were a governor on my cars engine that kept me from going over 50mph if a situation arose where I needed it.
Average vocal range is around two octaves likewise I believe the recorder. If you are playing vocal-like melodies the 25 key range is acceptable.
There are some common melodies where at least 32 would be needed.
Any two-handed style of playing benefits from the extended range.
A fuller range lends itself to styles of playing where you might accompany other instruments in the lower register then take your solo in the higher notes.