How low can a tenor sax go?

The lowest note a tenor saxophone can play is a low Bb (or A# if you prefer). It is written as Bb2, but since the tenor saxophone is a transposing instrument it is written a whole 14 semitones higher (on the staves) than it actually sounds. Hence it’s written Bb3 but is an Ab2.

What are the ranges of saxophone?

As with most types of saxophones, the standard written range is B♭3 to F6 (or F♯6). Above that, the altissimo register begins at F♯ and extends upwards. The saxophone’s altissimo register is more difficult to control than that of other woodwinds and is usually only expected from advanced players.

What is the highest note on tenor sax?

• The Tenor Saxophone is pitched in Bb and the range is from the lowest note Bb (written Bb below the staff) to highest note written F above the staff.
• The tenor sax can not play below a written low Bb, however many of the newer saxes have a high F# key, extending the range of the instrument.

What saxophone has the highest range?

Soprano Saxophone
Soprano Saxophone (Highest Pitch) The soprano saxophone is the smallest and has the highest pitch of the four.

Is tenor sax a BB instrument?

B-flat instruments *Tenor and soprano saxophones are in the key of B-flat. This means that when you play the note C on a tenor or soprano saxophone, the note that is heard is actually a B-flat.

Why is tenor sax in BB?

The reason for this is due to concert pitched instruments like piano or guitar. If you were to play a middle C on a piano and then play a C on your sax you’ll get two different pitches. Thus when transposed you’ll get a concert B flat from a sop or tenor, and a concert E flat from an alto or baritone.

What’s the difference between alto and tenor saxophone?

The tenor sax is slightly larger and heavier, while the alto sax is smaller, lighter, and more easily managed than a tenor. Since the alto sax is smaller, its notes are higher and brighter than those of the tenor sax. The tenor sax produces a mellow, rich, and deep sound.

Is tenor sax better than alto?

Since the alto sax is smaller, its notes are higher and brighter than those of the tenor sax. While expert musicians can get a vast range of sounds out of both instruments, younger musicians who have smaller hands and a smaller lung capacity tend to have an easier time playing the alto sax.

How big is a tenor saxophone?

The Tenor Saxophone is tuned to the key of B flat. It measures about 3 feet and is longer than the Alto. Generally, the Tenor has a deeper tone which makes it perfect for Jazz music.

Should I play alto or tenor?

The short answer—there is not that much of a difference between the alto sax and the tenor sax playing-wise. They are both equally as easy or hard for beginners to play although the alto is, arguably, a bit easier, fingering-wise.