Knowing the half-hole technique is essential to playing the instrument. This is also true for instruments like the oboe. With the bassoon, half-holing will be used for the notes Ab/G#, G and Gb, F#. The technique is done by simply rolling the index finger down to slightly open the hole.
Quick Tips:
Quick Tips:
- The whisper key will always be held down when using the half-hole technique.
- Roll the finger down, don't slide.
- Use a mirror to see the movement.
- To remember the three half-hole notes, simply think any type of G in the upper staff of the bass clef. (G#, G, Gb)
Getting your left hand ready
- Hold your left hand out like you are going to shake someones hand.
- Move your index finger up and down without moving the rest of the hand.
- Shake your hand out and relax.
- Now, curl your fingers in at no more than a 90 degree angle with your thumb against the tip of the index and middle fingers.
- Move your index finger once again like in step 2. Stay Relaxed.
- Shake your hand out again.
- With the bassoon, now place your left hand in the correct position and roll your index finger on and off the hole.
- Make sure the index finger and not the wrist are doing the motion. Use a mirror.
Exercise #1 G (bpm=91) Tip: Work on this at a slow tempo until you can play along.
Exercise #2 F#/Gb (bpm=91) Tip: Know your fingerings for this exercise.
Exercise #3 Ab/G# (bpm=91) Tip: It is only a quarter-hole opening for the Ab/G#.
Advanced tips
- The amount of hole actually opened is 2/3rds for F# and G, 1/4 for G#
- The half-hole technique is also used in the octave above this register. Once again the whisper key is used in conjunction.