 | The alto saxophone (see photo) is a variety of the saxophone, a family of woodwind instruments invented by Adolphe Sax. The alto is the third smallest of the saxophone family. It is the most common size of saxophone, and is also the size most commonly included in classical compositions. Teachers often suggest either an alto or a tenor for a beginner depending on their physical size, as well as their preferences. The alto saxophone is a transposing instrument and reads the treble clef in the key of E♭ (meaning that a written C for the alto will sound as E♭; concert, a major sixth lower, or a minor third above). |
| The range of the alto saxophone is from concert D♭ (D♭3) to concert A♭ (A♭5) (or A5 on altos with a high F# key). The "normal" range as written for the player is B♭3 to F6 (or F#6). The third octave, known as the altissimo register, begins at F# and extends upwards. Since the altissimo register of a saxophone is much more difficult to control than other woodwinds, it is usually only expected from advanced players. | |
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