For a younger flutist, C#2 (3rd space C# in the staff) can be a troubling problem. On most flutes, from beginning models all the way to the top hand made models C#2 will be sharp. So, what are flutists supposed to do about it! On some flute models C#2 can be over 50-75 cents sharp on a tuner. That makes for some horrifying moments if your music has a lot of C#s. And not only is the pitch very sharp but the quality of sound has a lot to be desired.
But believe or not there is an easy fix for it. What I try to do is ALWAYS add the three fingers of my right hand (fingers 4, 5, 6) every time when I am going to play that C#. In fact. there are numerous situations where by adding the three fingers for C# the other notes right around that are made easier also. Here is an example:
Three things happen when you use the alternate fingering for the C#2;
- The C# is MUCH more in tune!
- The quality of the sound is better
- Playing the whole pattern is made easier by using the alternate fingering.
It is a win-win! Give it a try!