When you start learning woodwind instruments, knowing the right finger positions for common scales can feel tricky. Each instrument has its own way of doing things, so let's simplify it.

Flute

For the flute, here’s how to play the C major scale (C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C):

• C: Close all keys
• D: Open the 1st finger (left hand) and the 3rd finger (right hand)
• E: Open the 1st and 2nd fingers (left hand)
• F: Close the 1st finger and open the 2nd
• G: Close the 1st finger (left), close the 2nd (left) and 3rd (left)
• A: Close the 1st and 2nd fingers (left) plus 1st finger (right)
• B: Close the 1st finger (left) and both fingers on the right
• High C: Close all keys again

Clarinet

If you play the clarinet, the finger positions for the C major scale are:

• C: Close the 1st finger (left, middle) and keep all others closed
• D: Close the 1st finger (left) and open the 3rd finger (left)
• E: Close the 1st and 2nd fingers
• F: Close the 1st finger and open the 2nd
• G: Close the 1st and 2nd fingers, and open the 3rd finger
• A: Keep the 1st three fingers closed
• B: Close all but the last two fingers (right hand)
• High C: Close all fingers again

Saxophone

For both tenor and alto saxophones, the fingerings are similar:

• C: Close the 1st finger and leave the rest open
• D: Close the 1st two fingers
• E: Close the 1st three fingers
• F: Similar to flute but with a different layout
• G, A, B, High C: Follow similar finger patterns as the clarinet

Oboe

Oboe fingerings can be a little trickier:

• C: Use the basic fingering like the clarinet but adjust for the double reed
• D, E, F, G, A, B, High C: Follow similar patterns but change them for the oboe’s unique sound

Bassoon

Lastly, for the bassoon, here’s what to do:

• C: Close all keys
• D, E, F, G, A, B, High C: Each note needs a special key combination because the bassoon is complex.

Remember, practice is key! The more you practice these finger positions, the more confident and skilled you will become as a woodwind player. Enjoy your music journey!