Hi, I've got a newbee question relating to finger placement. I'm having a TERRIBLE time sealing the holes with my fingers, most notably the bottom 4 holes (right hand). My fingers are very bony without much fat and I have to squeeze so hard.

Should I be using the finger tips or the fleshy part of the ends of the fingers? Either way, I'm having a heck of a time. It's a real distraction while I'm trying to learn notes.

Any help/advice appreciated!

Use the fleshy parts of your fingertips. You've seen fingerprints, right? use the end of the fingerprint area. That should solve your problems.