Lesson 6. The upper notes C and D

We are going higher than B! The upper C and D have an unusual fingering — let's figure it out.

Upper C: the thumb at the back and the middle finger of the left hand in front. The index finger is lifted! It feels unusual, but that is how it should be.

Upper D: we open even the back hole. Only one is covered — by the middle finger of the left hand.

For D, the thumb moves away just a tiny bit, so the recorder doesn't fall.

Now let's play a ladder up and down: G, A, B, C, D — and back.

🎤 Exercise: A ladder up and down

G, A, B, C², D², C², B, A, G. Hold each note until the bar fills up.

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Press “Start” and allow access to the microphone

🎛️ Notes not being heard well? Adjust it for your recorder

Fingering for the upper note C

For the upper C, the back hole (the thumb of the left hand) and the second front hole (the middle finger of the left hand) are covered. The first hole stays open — this is the main feature of the note, which beginners often forget.

Fingering for the upper note D

For the upper D the back hole is open too: only the second front hole is covered, with the middle finger of the left hand. The thumb stays near the hole and supports the recorder.

How to play the G – D scale

Five notes in a row — G, A, B, C, D — is already half of a scale. The move B → C is the hardest: you have to lift the index finger and lower the middle finger at the same time. Practice it separately first, slowly, making sure no extra sound slips out between the notes.

Questions and answers

Why does A sound instead of the upper C?

The index finger of the left hand stayed on the first hole. For C it must be lifted.