Tonehole

Clarinet · Clarion register

Clarinet fingering for B4

Thumb hole, left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2-3, register key, left E/B key (pinky). Basic — first note above the break.

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Clarinet B4 fingering: Thumb hole, left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2-3, register key, left E/B key (pinky).
Standard fingeringThumb hole, left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2-3, register key, left E/B key (pinky).Basic — first note above the break.
Clarinet B4 fingering (alternate 1): Thumb hole, left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2-3, register key, right E/B key (pinky).
Alternate 1Thumb hole, left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2-3, register key, right E/B key (pinky).Right-pinky alternative.
Written noteB 4 — B4 in scientific pitch notation.

What it sounds like

InstrumentSounding pitchFrequency (A4 = 440 Hz)
B♭ clarinetA4440.00 Hz
A clarinetG♯4415.30 Hz
E♭ clarinetD5587.33 Hz
Bass clarinetA3220.00 Hz

Tip for the clarion register

The register key turns each chalumeau fingering into the note a twelfth higher. Keep air speed up and the embouchure steady; don't bite to make notes speak.

Frequently asked questions

How do you play B4 on the clarinet?

Standard fingering: Thumb hole, left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2-3, register key, left E/B key (pinky). Basic — first note above the break.

What does written B4 sound like on the clarinet?

B♭ clarinet: A4 (440.0 Hz); A clarinet: G♯4 (415.3 Hz); E♭ clarinet: D5 (587.3 Hz); Bass clarinet: A3 (220.0 Hz).

Are there alternate fingerings for B4?

Yes — 1 alternate: (1) Thumb hole, left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2-3, register key, right E/B key (pinky). Right-pinky alternative.