Bassoon Fingering Chart (Page 4 of 4) in pdf

Bassoon Fingering Chart Page 4

Bassoon Fingering Chart - page 4

Notes on selected fingerings

1. Make sure Low D, C# and Whisper keys are used.

2. Variations on Eb include:

a. No resonance key

b. Use 1st finger, right hand instead of 2nd finger, right hand

c. Any combination of the above

It is important to find the correct fingering for Eb on each bassoon. Be sure to match both the fingering’s

intonation and tone quality compared to the notes above and below when evaluating the fingerings for this note.

3. Ensure that the little finger F# is used instead of the thumb F# key to improve tone and intonation.

4. Half Hole

The half hole notes of F#, G and G# need particular attention paid to the sound of the beginning of each note. To

ensure the correct amount of half hole and hence guaranteeing a clean attack, keep in mind that the amount of half

hole on each note varies. The F# uses the most, G a little less and G# even less. To a certain extent, the amount of

half hole varies on each bassoon so every bassoonist must determine the amount that his/her instrument requires and

incorporate this into their practicing.

5. Flicking

Each key marked in gray must be flicked, on their assigned note, to ensure a clean attack or clean slur. To flick,

lightly tap the grayed key as the note is articulated or slurred to. Coordination of this technique takes some practice

but mastery will cure the problems that these notes cause for many bassoonists.

6. All notes from E to the uppermost notes on the bassoon must have the resonance key pressed.

Check the JDRP website at for future updates to the fingerings discussed here and

more indepth discussions on many double reed topics.

Post your double reed questions on the JDRP message board at

or email the Reed Advisor at

Bassoon Fingering Chart Page 4