Fingering advice please

Robb · Post by **Robb** » Fri Feb 10, 2006 2:18 pm

Hi

I recently started playing flute after a very long layoff - I just wanted to know if I could get a sound out of it. Anyway, since I could, I've been practicing just about every day. I have a question about fingering - should I always practive flat key scales and arps wih the left hand thumb Bb, or with the right 1st finger Bb, or simply do both? I don't want to get into really bad habits !

Thanks!

-Robb

Claiken · Post by **Claiken** » Fri Feb 10, 2006 3:17 pm

well i always use the right 1st finger way... i dont think theres any 'right' way, i think its whatever is most comfortable for you...

im not an expert, but this is what i think, lol

MeLizzard · Post by **MeLizzard** » Sat Feb 11, 2006 9:09 am

Just as clarinetists have to choose between right- and left-hand fingerings for some notes, we sometimes have to choose the "best" fingering. It's a good idea to practice all (one-and-one, thumb, and lever B-flats) fingerings in order to avoid an uncomfortable sightreading problem sometime (?). In repertoire, it's usually safe to use the thumb fingering if there are no b-naturals. The choice often depends on the notes before and after the B-flat in question. I like the B-flat lever (the small key near your trills keys, shaped like a quarter note) also.

Jamie_Babie · Post by **Jamie_Babie** » Sat Feb 11, 2006 11:43 am

Yes, on a clarinet you have many fingerings for lower notes so you don't have to move your little finger really fast, but can use both of your little fingerings for ease of playing. But if it is just one low note on its own, you can pick which finger to use, i suppose its similar for flute.