A classy member of the saxophone family, the alto saxophone would be the first recommendation for any person wanting to learn to play a Saxophone.
The convenient size of the instrument, its weight, the size of the mouthpiece and spacing of the keys make it a very easy instrument to start to learn. Larger in size than the soprano, yet smaller than the tenor, the alto is really the most common size of saxophone. You will find proof of this in any good music book or online book stores, where the majority of books that are stocked are written for Alto Sax.
The Alto Sax is an ideal Saxophone for beginners to start on. It’s size make it an easy instrument to hold. Both small and large hands alike will be able to come to grips with the spacing between the keys fairly easily. Many people start by picking up an Alto in the school band and learn the basic, before moving on to another, maybe Soprano, Tenor or Bari
Alto Saxohone
As a transposing instrument, this Sax is based in the key of E Flat. Most Altos range from concert B-flat below middle C to F-sharp 2 and a half octaves higher.
This instrument has played a profound role during the evolution of Jazz music, and it is not unusual for saxophonists to be successful on both the alto and tenor saxophones when playing. You’ll also find the alto sax plays a role in rock, concert, funk, pop and blues music styles.
The list of great players who perform mainly on Alto is huge:
- Charlie Parker
- David Sanborn
- Candy Dulfer
- Phil Woods
- Cannonball Adderley
- Gerald Albright
- Mindy Abair
- Chu Berry
- Warren Hill
Return from Alto Saxophone to Saxophone Family
Return from Alto Saxophone to Saxophone Players Guide
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