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Flute · Second octave register

Flute fingering for E5

Left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2, B thumb key, E♭ key (right pinky). Basic — same as low E, more air speed.

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Flute E5 fingering: Left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2, B thumb key, E♭ key (right pinky).
Standard fingeringLeft hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2, B thumb key, E♭ key (right pinky).Basic — same as low E, more air speed.
Written noteE 5 — E5 in scientific pitch notation.

What it sounds like

InstrumentSounding pitchFrequency (A4 = 440 Hz)
FluteE5659.26 Hz
PiccoloE61,318.51 Hz
Alto flute (G)B4493.88 Hz
Bass fluteE4329.63 Hz

Tip for the second octave register

The second octave uses mostly the same fingerings as the first; raise the pitch with faster air and a smaller aperture, not by blowing harder. Note the open left index finger on D and E♭.

Frequently asked questions

How do you play E5 on the flute?

Standard fingering: Left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2, B thumb key, E♭ key (right pinky). Basic — same as low E, more air speed.

What does written E5 sound like on the flute?

Flute: E5 (659.3 Hz); Piccolo: E6 (1318.5 Hz); Alto flute (G): B4 (493.9 Hz); Bass flute: E4 (329.6 Hz).