Backun Alternate Fingerings

Volume 1, Throat Tones

 Introduction
The purpose of this booklet is to maintain our collective curiosity about the myriad ways to
be expressive with the clarinet. There have been many books on fingerings printed in the past.
Hopefully, there will be many more in the future. However, if you are able to find even one of these
fingerings useful, the mission of this booklet will be accomplished. More than anything, we would
like to encourage you to use your imagination to further expand on the information given. There are
several pages in the back of this booklet with blank fingering diagrams for you to record your own
alternate fingerings, or to share with your colleagues. It should also be noted that some fingerings
may vary in effectiveness, depending on the brand of instrument and mouthpiece played, and
ultimately, on the ability and sensitivity of you, the artist.

How to Use This Booklet

The highlighted tone holes are those that need to be covered. Please keep in mind that, at times,
alternate fingerings will call for semi-closed tone holes. The highlighted keys are the ones that need
to be actuated.

It is very important to understand that while having alternate fingerings is useful, they are only
as useful as one’s level of musicianship and sensitivity enables them to be. This is a guide to
encourage critical musical thinking and, as such, it should remind us to think of the clarinet as a tool
of expression.

About Throat Tone Fingerings

Because the throat notes use the shortest amount of the bore to resonate, it is advisable to use
resonance fingerings that can elongate the tube to improve the tone, solidify the intonation and
smooth the transition to the upper register. In this case, it is advisable to choose fingerings that can
be used consistently.

CG Carbon™
The future and beyond
The world’s most technologically advanced clarinet, the CG Carbon features a body crafted from
carbon fibre with an exotic wood core. Using a patent pending process, carbon fibre is fused to the
precision machined core, resulting in a clarinet with the robust projection and unmatched intonation
that Backun is known for. Years of material analysis and real-world testing have proven the fusion
process can endure wide-ranging temperatures and humidity conditions without expansion or
contraction of the clarinet body. Tonally, the playing characteristics stay true to that of a wooden
clarinet with the new Backun Scale. This signature model, designed for Maestro Corrado Giuffredi,
represents a giant leap into the future… and beyond.

Available in B♭ and A, unstained grenadilla or cocobolo body with gold or silver keywork.

Volume 1, Throat Tones - Introduction & CG Carbon Clarinet  @backunmusical - 2

 Fingerings for Open G

1. A warm and clear fingering that helps lower the intonation while Example: Schubert, Der Hirt auf dem Felsen, D. 965
adding a little resistance helpful in register changes. Weber, Variations, Op. 33 – m13
Example: Sibelius, Symphony No. 1 in E Minor, Op. 39, First Mvt. – m10 Brahms, Symphony No. 3 in F Major, Op. 90, First Mvt. –
Brahms, Symphony No. 3 in F Major, Op. 90, First Mvt. – m23, m35
mm23–24, Solo m36
3. Similar to Fingering 2, but easier transitioning to the upper
Debussy, Première Rhapsodie – m2, m14 register.
2. A dark, clear, and focused fingering, good for transitions. Can be
used without the left-hand 3rd finger to make it a little darker,
but sharper (2a).

11111 11a
2222 1a22a
2a
2a
2a 233333 3
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Volume 1, Throat Tones - Open G  @backunmusical - 3

Fingerings for Throat A♭

1. A warm, solid fingering that works well on A and B♭ clarinets 2. A duller fingering that can be used to ease the transition to the
and can be considered the ”standard” fingering. This fingering upper register.
blends and slurs well to the upper clarion, and also matches 3. The clearest, most powerful and versatile fingering for A♭.
color-wise with the “Long” B and C.
Example: Nielsen, Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra, Op. 57 [D.F.129] – First
Example: Debussy, Première Rhapsodie – m5 Solo
Bartok, The Miraculous Mandarin – m14 Shostakovich, Symphony No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 10:
(through the rest of the solo) First Mvt. – First three measures after Rehearsal 1
1a. For the excerpt below, use this alternate fingering. Second Mvt. – Five measures after Rehearsal 1

Example: Brahms, Symphony No. 3 in F Major, Op. 90, First Mvt. – m36
(if performed on B♭ Clarinet)

11111 11a
1a
1a
1a
1a 1a22222 233333 3

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Volume 1, Throat Tones - Throat A♭  @backunmusical - 4

 Lumière™
The evolution of Backun
The Lumière takes the clarinet to a level of breathtaking clarity
and focus from the highest altissimo down through the low
register. Less is more, as the Lumière flaunts European flair
with uncompromising intonation and fluidity. Completely
redesigned from the bell up, and the first clarinet to feature the
new Backun Scale, this custom clarinet is a perfect match for
those who desire the highest quality playing experience in a
more traditional French-style instrument.

Available in B♭ and A, unstained grenadilla or cocobolo body

with gold or silver keywork, or silver keys with gold posts.

Volume 1, Throat Tones - Lumière Clarinet  @backunmusical - 5

Fingerings for Throat A

1. A very warm and useful fingering, and one that works especially 2a. Similar to above with a slightly different resonance.
well on the neighboring half-steps A♭/B♭ to create evenness
3. A very resonant, dark, and clear fingering. While it may be a bit
and smoothness. This fingering transitions well to the upper
awkward, with practice it can become one of the standards. It
register.
slurs well to the upper register, is extremely stable for intonation
Examples: Debussy, Petite Pièce – m1 and is flexible in color.
Debussy, Première Rhapsodie – m12 Example: Finzi, Five Bagatelles: II. Romance – m1
Beethoven, Symphony No. 6 in F Major, Op. 68, First Mvt. – Brahms, Clarinet Sonata No. 2, Op. 120, No. 2 – m1
Solo Before G, mm291–297
Weber, Clarinet Concerto No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 73,
Solo after K, m477, mm480–481
Second Mvt. – m1
1a. Similar to above with a slightly different resonance. Puccini, Tosca, E Lucevan le stelle – Solo

2. Dark and focused, this fingering also tends to have more glow 3a. Similar to above with a slightly different resonance.
and works well slurring to C and B. It tends to be a little sharper
Example: Brahms, Symphony No. 3 in F Major, Op. 90, Second Mvt. – m1
than Fingering 1.
Berlioz, Symphonie Fantastique, Op. 14, Third Mvt. –
Example: Weber, Concertino in E♭ Major, Op. 26 – Introduction
Five measures after Rehearsal 43

1a111
1a 1221a
1a
1a 2a
1a2a222 2332a
2a
2a 33a
3a333 3a
3a
3a

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Volume 1, Throat Tones - Throat A  @backunmusical - 6

Fingerings for Throat A (cont.)

3b. Less resonant, but a lovely, dark sound at softer dynamics. 5. Similar in both color and resonance to Fingering 3, but may be
Recommended for delicate passages. easier to access in different passages.
Example: Finzi, Five Bagatelles: II. Romance Example: Beethoven, Symphony No. 6 in F Major, Op. 68, Third Mvt. –
mm124–125
4. Not as resonant as Fingering 3, but it will still stabilize the pitch
and is useful when a passage requires resonance. Shostakovich, Symphony No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 10, First Mvt. –
Second measure after Rehearsal 1
Example: Beethoven, Symphony No. 6 in F Major, Op. 68, Fifth Mvt. –
Solo, mm3–4

3b
3b
3b
3b 3b
4444 3b
45555 45 5
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Volume 1, Throat Tones - Throat A (cont.)  @backunmusical - 7

 Q Series™
Classic feel and playability
The Q Series clarinet offers those who prefer a more traditional
French-style instrument the chance to experience the world of
Backun. We combine modern manufacturing techniques and
treatments, including a carbon fibre middle joint ring, with
naturally unstained grenadilla wood and brilliant silver-plated
keywork to produce an instrument with truly familiar feel and
playability. An affordable masterpiece, the Q Series is the classic
choice.

Available in B♭ and A, unstained grenadilla body, silver keywork.

Volume 1, Throat Tones - Q Series Clarinet  @backunmusical - 8

 Fingerings for Throat B♭
1. Good standard fingering. Works well when playing neighboring 4. Clear and resonant. Slurs well to the upper register. It also works
A♭ or A. with the side trill key B♭.
Example: Debussy, Première Rhapsodie – m5 Example: Shostakovich, Symphony No. 9 in E♭ Major, Op. 70, Second Mvt.
Solo – m8, m10
2. Perhaps the best overall fingering for Open B♭. This fingering is
resonant, clear and keeps the intonation lower and more stable. Sibelius, Symphony No. 1 in E Minor, Op. 39, First Mvt. Solo – m12

Example: Sibelius, Symphony No. 1 in E Minor, Op. 39, First Mvt. – Beginning Weber, Clarinet Concerto No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 73,

Solo, m5 First Mvt. – m86

Puccini, Tosca, E lucevan le stelle – Solo 4a. Not as resonant as Fingering 4, but works well in intimate
passages.
3. This fingering is especially warm. It tends to be sharper than
Fingerings 2 or 4, but blends well, especially in passages that Example: Brahms, Clarinet Sonata No. 1, Op. 120, Third Mvt.

have the throat A. – Beginning

111111 222222 333333 444444 4a

4a
4a
4a
4a
4a
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Volume 1, Throat Tones - Throat B♭  @backunmusical - 9

 Alpha™
March to your own beat
The Alpha Clarinet is crafted from an ideal blend of synthetic
materials for maximum resonance and durability. Designed
to be the optimal indoor and outdoor student clarinet, it is
at home in the classroom, on the concert stage, or on the
marching field. Professionals and students alike count on the
Alpha for performances where a wooden instrument might not
be appropriate, thanks to its exceptionally light body, durable
keywork and weather-resistant build that ensures years of lasting
playability.

Available in B♭, proprietary synthetic body, silver or nickel keywork.

Volume 1, Throat Tones - Alpha Clarinet  @backunmusical - 10

Backun Barrels & Bells

Lumière Barrel MoBa Barrel Fatboy Barrel E♭ Cutback Barrel

The Lumière Barrel offers a sweet,
balanced tone with increased focus and
projection that illuminates every corner
of the concert hall. Elegant curves and
flowing design perfectly complement
its sweet, refined character. Artists
appreciate the incredible richness and
resonance of the Lumière Barrel for
chamber, solo, and orchestral playing.
The MoBa Barrel produces an
unmistakable, full-bodied, dark sound
that makes it a favourite amongst
orchestral players worldwide. With
increased resistance and focus, and
an unbelievable ease of articulation
throughout the entire range of the
clarinet, this barrel is a great option for
artists wanting a darker tone. Artists
prefer this barrel for orchestral repertoire.
The Fatboy is at home in the world’s
most prestigious concert halls, famous
jazz clubs, and everywhere in between.
It’s our best-selling barrel, and for good
reason. Artists who are called upon
to interpret a wide variety of music
appreciate the Fatboy Barrel’s unique
flexibility and versatility. Note: In Japan,
this model is known as the Backun
Barrel.
Backun E♭ Barrels feature a unique
cutback design that allows the use of
B♭ clarinet reeds on an E♭ mouthpiece,
without the need to trim them. Artists
love how this barrel improves intonation
and flexibility, while stabilizing the
tone of the instrument throughout
all registers. Paired with the Backun
E♭ Bell, this barrel really tames the
savage beast

Available in grenadilla and cocobolo Available in grenadilla and cocobolo Available in grenadilla and cocobolo Available in grenadilla and cocobolo
woods. Designed for both B♭ and woods. Designed for both B♭ and woods. Designed for both B♭ and woods. Designed to fit most E♭ clarinets.
A clarinets. A clarinets. A clarinets.

Lumière Bell MoBa Bell E♭ Bell

The Lumière Bell features a unique Double Voicing
Groove (DVG) that improves intonation and stability in
the clarion register. A modestly sized bell set between
a carbon fibre tenon ring and a pronounced bell flair,
this wooden work of art is a musical sculpture that
allows the clarinet to sing.
Big halls are no match for the MoBa Bell, which is a
powerhouse well suited to orchestral and solo stages.
With a taper unique to the MoBa product line, an
integrated Voicing Groove, and a bold bell curve, the
MoBa Bell offers players exceptional versatility and
projection.
Tuning the E♭ clarinet can be a major challenge, so we
designed a bell as fearless as most E♭ players. Adding
yet another dimension of versatility to your impressive
repertoire, the Backun E♭ Bell aligns the registers
and delivers a warm tonal centre to your sound. The
Backun Voicing Groove is standard on all E♭ Bells.

Available in grenadilla and cocobolo woods.Designed Available in grenadilla and cocobolo woods.Designed Available in grenadilla and cocobolo woods.Designed
for both B♭ and A clarinets. for both B♭ and A clarinets. for both B♭ and A clarinets.

Volume 1, Throat Tones - Barrels & Bells  @backunmusical - 11

 BACKUN BACKUN

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Volume 1, Throat Tones - Additional Fingerings 

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Additional Fingerings

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@backunmusical - 12
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 Vocalise Mouthpieces
By Hawkins and Backun
Richard Hawkins collaborated with Backun Musical
Services to develop a series of mouthpieces with
tonal ring and clarity that will change the course
of mouthpiece history. Designed using advanced
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Vocalise Bb R, G, H and Z Vocalise Bb CG

R – Close/Short G – Medium/Medium H – Open/Long Z – Extremely Open/Long CG – Open/Long

Evenness and a focus of sound
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facing mouthpiece that allows
to articulate with reduced effort,
while ringing true with fabulous
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A medium faced mouthpiece
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connections just where you
need it.
The most open facing in the
lineup, the H is both smooth
and dark, with ample cushion
for those who need more
robust flexibility throughout
the registers. This mouthpiece
requires unyielding passion in
performance.
The Vocalise Z was developed
to meet the needs of artists
who prefer mouthpieces with
a larger facing, while offering
sig nifica nt v ol u m e a nd
projection. With a robust tone,
it is reminiscent of more current
European models.
Crafted from a proprietary clear
synthetic material, the Vocalise
CG Mouthpiece is Open/Long,
while giving players a flexible
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articulates with ease and holds
a clear quality of sound at
extreme volumes.

Volume 1, Throat Tones - Vocalise Mouthpieces  @backunmusical - 13

 Visit the Backun Musical Services
Website for More Clarinet Resources
Alternate Fingerings for Upper Register, Volume 2
Alternate Fingerings for Altissimo Range, Volume 3

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