Recorder fingering chart
Soprano recorder fingering differs between Baroque and German systems, especially for low F. This page opens with the Baroque soprano chart; select the system that matches your recorder before following the diagrams.
Fingering chart
Soprano recorder fingering depends on the system: low F has different finger positions on Baroque and German instruments.
| Written note | Finger position |
|---|---|
| C4 | Cover: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 |
| C♯4/D♭4 | Cover: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; Partly open: 7 |
| D4 | Cover: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 |
| D♯4/E♭4 | Cover: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5; Partly open: 6 |
| E4 | Cover: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 |
| F4 | Cover: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 |
| F♯4/G♭4 | Cover: 0, 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 |
| G4 | Cover: 0, 1, 2, 3 |
| G♯4/A♭4 | Cover: 0, 1, 2, 4, 5; Partly open: 6 |
| A4 | Cover: 0, 1, 2 |
| A♯4/B♭4 | Cover: 0, 1, 3, 4 |
| B4 | Cover: 0, 1 |
| C5 | Cover: 0, 2 |
| C♯5/D♭5 | Cover: 1, 2 |
| D5 | Cover: 2 |
| D♯5/E♭5 | Cover: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 |
| E5 | Cover: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5; Partly open: 0 |
| F5 | Cover: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6; Partly open: 0 |
| F♯5/G♭5 | Cover: 1, 2, 3, 5; Partly open: 0 |
| G5 | Cover: 1, 2, 3; Partly open: 0 |
| G♯5/A♭5 | Cover: 1, 2, 4; Partly open: 0 |
| A5 | Cover: 1, 2; Partly open: 0 |
| A♯5/B♭5 | Cover: 1, 2, 4, 5, 6; Partly open: 0 |
| B5 | Cover: 1, 2, 4, 5; Partly open: 0 |
| C6 | Cover: 1, 4, 5; Partly open: 0 |
| C♯6/D♭6 | Cover: 1, 3, 4, 5, 7; Partly open: 0 |
| D6 | Cover: 1, 3, 4, 6; Partly open: 0 |
How to use it
- Check the selected instrument and fingering system; this page opens with the combination named in the title.
- Choose a staff note, list entry or keyboard key. Filled circles show covered holes or pressed keys.
- Use Hear the note to compare pitches; the microphone switches off before playback to avoid feedback.
- Enable the microphone, allow access and play a single note without accompaniment. Let the reading settle.
- Match the A reference to your lesson or ensemble, then use Print / PDF to save the selected chart.
Help and explanations
The chart uses written notes from C4 to D6. A soprano recorder sounds an octave above that notation, so a microphone reading C5 for written C4 is expected. Do not mistake the written octave for a target an octave below your instrument.
Read holes, half-holes and note names together
Hole 0 is the thumb hole on the back; holes 1 to 7 run down the front from top to bottom. A filled circle means cover that hole. Close holes with the soft pads of your fingers, without pressing so hard that the hand becomes tense. If low C jumps into a high squeak, check for a leaking hole before blowing harder.
A half-covered thumb hole is used for some higher notes. It is a small opening, not a request to remove the thumb altogether. Double holes near the foot of the instrument have a different half-hole action: one small opening stays covered while the other opens. Work out which marking you are reading before moving a finger. Compare adjacent notes slowly, then try the change in a short melody.
Tips
- Use B, A and G to practise keeping unused fingers close to the holes.
- Confirm the recorder’s system from its model information or supplied chart.
- When changing systems, pay particular attention to F and the chromatic notes.
Frequently asked questions
How do I finger low C on a soprano recorder?
Cover the thumb hole and all seven front holes. Use a gentle, supported breath and check every seal.
Are Baroque and German recorder fingerings the same?
No. Some notes agree, but low F is a useful example of the difference; use the chart for your instrument.
Why does my recorder squeak on low notes?
A leaking hole or an unsuitable breath pressure can push the sound into another register. Check the fingers first.
What does a half-filled circle mean?
It marks a half-open hole. Distinguish a small thumb vent from opening one part of a double hole.
Can I print this recorder fingering chart?
Yes, use Print / PDF after choosing the instrument and system. Check those selections before taking it to a lesson.