F Position

The next hand position we’re going to explore is F Position. In the right hand, you’ll rest the thumb on the F above middle C, and the pinkie on the C above middle C, with the other fingers evenly spread out on the keys in between (not forgetting to rest the fourth finger on B♭ , as required in the key of F):

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In the left hand, your thumb will go on middle C, and the pinkie on the F below that:

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We could play some more tunes which are just contained within this F Position, like we did with the C Position in Chapter 5… but wait! “Been there, done that!” It’s time to move beyond the basic hand position, and extend it so we can access some new notes!

One easy way to extend this basic right-hand position, is to extend the thumb down below the starting note. For example, in the F Position the thumb is positioned on F, but you can move it down to E if the song needs you to do so. A similar extension is possible in the left hand. To play the E below the F, simply move finger 5 down one key. Both of these moves are used in our next tune, “Marianne.” Notice that the notes F and E in the melody both have finger number 1 next to them in the right hand, and number 5 in the left hand. As some extra help, the finger numbers have been circled where you have to move them down, “out of position.” Give it a try!

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Did you notice the key signature of F major? If not, and you forgot to play B♭ , it probably sounded a little funny. Now have a listen to track 18 and then play along. Remember those B flats!