- Master all chromatic notes in your range (sharps and flats)
- Learn fork fingerings and cross-fingerings fluently
- Navigate chromatic scales and passages smoothly
- Understand enharmonic equivalents (F# = Gb)
Introduction
The chromatic scale includes all twelve notes within an octave—all the white and black keys on a piano. Playing chromatically on recorder requires special fingerings and careful technique, but it unlocks expressive possibilities and prepares you for advanced repertoire.
Chromatic Notes You Know
You've already learned:
- F# (F sharp) - Cross-fingering (Lesson 9)
- Bb (B flat) - Fork fingering (Lesson 11)
New Chromatic Notes
C# / Db (C sharp / D flat)
Fingering: Cross-fingering (0 1 - 3 4 5 6 7)
Eb (E flat)
Fingering: Fork fingering (0 1 2 - 4 5 6 7)
G# / Ab (G sharp / A flat)
Fingering: Fork fingering (0 1 2 3 - 5 6 7)
Enharmonic Equivalents
Some notes have two names but sound the same pitch:
- F# = Gb (F sharp = G flat)
- C# = Db (C sharp = D flat)
- G# = Ab (G sharp = A flat)
The name used depends on the musical context (key signature, harmonic function).
The Chromatic Scale
All twelve notes ascending by half steps:
Every possible note from low C to middle C.
13 notes total! (C appears twice: start and end)
Now descending from C5 to C4.
Chromatic Patterns and Finger Facility
Practice each chromatic pair slowly, then speed up.
Then try: G-G#, A-Bb, B-C, C-C#, etc.
Four-note chromatic patterns are common in advanced music.
This descending chromatic line creates dramatic tension!
Musical Application: Chromatic Embellishments
First, a plain diatonic (non-chromatic) melody:
Now with chromatic notes added between the main melody notes:
Notice how the chromatic notes (G#, Bb) add color and interest!
Cross-Fingering Technique
Cross-fingerings (skipping a hole) require special attention:
- Lift fingers cleanly - Don't drag or slide
- Minimize motion - Fingers stay close to holes
- Firm closure - Make sure holes are fully covered or fully open
- Practice slowly - Speed comes with accuracy
Focus on the tricky F# cross-fingering.
Challenge: Keep tone quality consistent! F# shouldn't sound weaker than G.
Keys Using Chromatic Notes
Different keys naturally include chromatic notes:
- D major: F# and C#
- A major: F#, C#, and G#
- Bb major: Bb and Eb
- Eb major: Bb, Eb, and Ab
You're fluent in D major now with both its chromatic notes!
Troubleshooting Chromatic Notes
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Chromatic notes sound weak or unclear | Increase air support slightly, ensure holes are fully covered |
| Wrong pitch comes out | Double-check fingering chart—chromatic fingerings are tricky! |
| Fingers get tangled in cross-fingerings | Practice each fingering slowly in isolation first |
| Chromatic scale sounds uneven | Normal! Some notes naturally project more. Adjust air for balance |
Common Mistakes
- ❌ Using wrong fingering - Many chromatic notes have alternate fingerings. Start with standard ones!
- ❌ Rushing through chromatic passages - They're harder than diatonic. Practice slowly!
- ❌ Inconsistent finger pressure - All holes must be equally sealed
- ❌ Avoiding chromatic notes - Embrace them! They're essential for advanced playing
Practice Routine (25 minutes daily)
- Chromatic scale (ascending and descending) - 7 minutes
- Half-step pair drills (Exercise 2) - 5 minutes
- Cross-fingering drill (Exercise 4) - 5 minutes
- Chromatic embellishment exercises - 5 minutes
- Apply chromatic notes to songs - 3 minutes