High F#/Gb, G-natural, and Ab/G#)
F-sharp/G-flat, G, and G-sharp/A-flat need half-hole in the second and third octaves on the bassoon. The size of the opening on the half-hole is ever-so-slightly smaller in the third octave.
Blow Fast Air, Don’t Squeeze!
It is tempting to squeeze the notes out by relying too much on your jaws/lips. You’ll get a better sound, better response, better intonation, wider dynamic range, and less fatigue if you use:
- Extremely fast air!
- Half-hole
- Support with lips but maintain space in the oral cavity (avoid clamping the jaws)
- Lower back of tongue to form an “Ah” vowel sound to lower pitch of sharp notes (F#4 to C#5)
- Correct fingerings! Fingerings in the top octave are NOT based on their lower counterparts so make sure your fingers are in the right place.
- Check your reed opening. A smaller opening will facilitate high notes but if the reed is too closed your airstream will blow the tip closed and stop the sound.
- Move your lips closer to the first wire for the highest notes (3rd octave A and above).
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