Clarinet · Chalumeau register
Clarinet fingering for C4
Thumb hole, left hand 1-2-3. Basic — left hand only.
What it sounds like
| Instrument | Sounding pitch | Frequency (A4 = 440 Hz) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| B♭ clarinet | B♭3 | 233.08 Hz | |
| A clarinet | A3 | 220.00 Hz | |
| E♭ clarinet | E♭4 | 311.13 Hz | |
| Bass clarinet | B♭2 | 116.54 Hz |
Tip for the chalumeau register
Seal the holes with the pads of your fingers, not the tips — the most common cause of squeaks down here is a hole that is only partly covered. Keep the air warm and the tongue low for a dark, rich sound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you play C4 on the clarinet?
Standard fingering: Thumb hole, left hand 1-2-3. Basic — left hand only.
What does written C4 sound like on the clarinet?
B♭ clarinet: B♭3 (233.1 Hz); A clarinet: A3 (220.0 Hz); E♭ clarinet: E♭4 (311.1 Hz); Bass clarinet: B♭2 (116.5 Hz).