How to read the diagram
Each diagram shows the flute from above, with the head joint on the left. A filled circle means the key is pressed; an empty one means it stays open.
- Left thumb: B key (lower) and B♭ lever (upper)
- Left hand: index, middle and ring fingers on keys 1, 2 and 3
- G♯ key: left little finger
- Right hand: index, middle and ring fingers on keys 1, 2 and 3
- Trill keys: the two small keys above the right hand
- E♭ key: right little finger, pressed on almost every note
- Foot joint: C♯ and C rollers, also with the right little finger
Flute fingering chart
Tap a note to hear it.
Low register (1st octave)
Slow, wide air stream, relaxed lips, air aimed slightly down.
Middle register (2nd octave)
Most fingerings repeat the first octave. To go up, blow faster and make the lip opening a little smaller; don't blow harder.
High register (3rd octave)
Fast, focused air and a small opening. Fingerings change a lot: learn them one note at a time.
Notes that trip people up
- Middle D and E♭: same as the low octave, but lift the left index finger.
- B♭: with the thumb lever, or without it using the “1 and 1” fingering (thumb, left index and right index).
- C and C♯ in the low and middle octaves: almost the whole left hand is off. Hold the flute steady with your chin, right thumb and little finger on the E♭ key.
- Low D: the only note where the right little finger leaves the E♭ key.
See and practise the fingerings in the app
The app shows the fingering for every note as you play and checks you through the microphone. Free, no sign-up.
Open the app →Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest note to play on the flute?
Usually B, A and G in the low octave: few fingers and a comfortable air stream. That's why the app starts with them.
Why does the same fingering give two different notes?
Most notes in the second octave use the same fingering as the first. The air is what changes: faster and more focused air makes the note jump up an octave.
Does this chart work for a flute with a B foot?
Yes, for every note shown. A B-foot flute only adds a low B below C4.
How do I know I'm playing the right note?
In the Dedilhado Vivo app you turn on the microphone and it shows instantly which note you are playing and whether it is in tune.