- Master high F5 and G5 fingerings
- Extend comfortable playing range to two full octaves
- Develop control in the high register
- Play melodies utilizing the extended upper range
Introduction
High F and G complete your two-octave range! These notes require precise half-hole technique and strong air support. Mastering them opens up advanced repertoire and virtuosic passages.
Note: High F5
Fingering: Half-hole (thumb) + holes 2 and 3 closed (½ - 2 3 - - - -)
Technique notes:
- Very precise half-hole required
- Fast, focused air stream
- Firm embouchure
- Strong diaphragm support
Hold each note for 4 beats. Focus on clean attack and stable pitch.
Listen for: Clear, centered tone. No wavering or squeaking.
Note: High G5
Fingering: Half-hole (thumb) + hole 3 closed (½ - - 3 - - - -)
Technique notes:
- Lightest, fastest air of any note so far
- Half-hole must be perfectly positioned
- Can be challenging—practice patience!
- Some recorders play G5 more easily than others
High G is demanding! Start with shorter notes if needed.
Tip: If you can't get a clear sound, check recorder quality and thumb position.
Approaching High F and G
Build up to high F from familiar notes.
Tip: Gradually increase air speed as you ascend.
Now push up to high G!
Your Complete Two-Octave Range
You now command:
- Low register: C4 to F#4
- Middle register: G4 to B4
- High register: C5 to G5
Total range: C4 to G5 (more than two octaves!)
Your complete range in one scale!
This is a major achievement! Celebrate your expanded range.
Scales Using Extended Range
Now you can play G major spanning two full octaves!
Troubleshooting High F and G
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Note doesn't speak at all | More air speed (not volume), check half-hole position |
| Squeaky, harsh sound | Too much air pressure. Use faster air, not harder blowing |
| Pitch unstable | Firm embouchure, steady air stream, precise half-hole |
| Gets lower octave instead | Half-hole not open enough, need more air support |
| Note cracks or splits | Check for condensation in windway, ensure holes sealed |
Musical Application
A lyrical melody showcasing your new range.
Play smoothly, with confident transitions to the high notes.
Range Extension Tips
- Warm up gradually: Don't start practice with high notes
- Short sessions: High notes are tiring—practice in brief bursts
- Relaxation: Tension kills high notes. Stay relaxed!
- Quality over quantity: Few perfect high notes better than many squeaky ones
- Instrument matters: Better recorders play high notes more easily
Beyond G5
Recorder can go even higher (A5, Bb5, C6 and beyond), but these are advanced techniques requiring:
- Alternate fingerings
- Even more precise control
- Exceptional air speed and support
- High-quality instrument
For now, master C4 to G5. That's a magnificent range for intermediate repertoire!
Practice Routine (25 minutes daily)
- Long tones on F5 and G5 - 7 minutes
- Stepwise approaches (Exercises 3-4) - 6 minutes
- Two-octave scales - 7 minutes
- Melodies utilizing high F and G - 5 minutes