Clarinet · Chalumeau register
Clarinet fingering for F3
Thumb hole, left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2-3, right F/C key (pinky). Basic.
What it sounds like
| Instrument | Sounding pitch | Frequency (A4 = 440 Hz) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| B♭ clarinet | E♭3 | 155.56 Hz | |
| A clarinet | D3 | 146.83 Hz | |
| E♭ clarinet | A♭3 | 207.65 Hz | |
| Bass clarinet | E♭2 | 77.78 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 F3 on the clarinet?
Standard fingering: Thumb hole, left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2-3, right F/C key (pinky). Basic.
What does written F3 sound like on the clarinet?
B♭ clarinet: E♭3 (155.6 Hz); A clarinet: D3 (146.8 Hz); E♭ clarinet: A♭3 (207.7 Hz); Bass clarinet: E♭2 (77.8 Hz).
Are there alternate fingerings for F3?
Yes — 1 alternate: (1) Thumb hole, left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2-3, left F/C key (pinky). Left-pinky F, for use next to right-pinky notes.