Transposing instruments, like the saxophones, read different notes than what they sound. Most instruments are split into two groups: The tenor saxophone plays a C in order to tune a Bb. Just know that when you tune an alto saxophone, you play your G, and your tuner shows a Bb. This makes it easier to read the notes and switch between the different types of saxophones.įor most beginner players, you won’t need to know anything about this. Saxophone transposition refers to how when you read sheet music for the sax and play a note it sounds like a different pitch in actuality (called concert pitch). Saxes can play in any key the fingerings just look different from one to another. Note: This does not refer to the key signature.

Hey! If you found this information helpful, why not share a link to this article on your school website, with your friends, or with your colleagues? Concert Pitch (Sounding Pitch) Key of Eb Written Pitch (Alto, Bari) Key of Bb Written Pitch (Soprano, Tenor) C A D C#, Db A#, Bb D#, Eb D B E D#, Eb C F E C#, Db F#, Gb F D G F#, Gb D#, Eb G#, Ab G E A G#, Ab F A#, Bb A F#, Gb B A#, Bb G C B G#, Ab C#, Db

Use this to check how the pitches are related right away and reference the later sections if you want more details and information. Can A Saxophone Play In Any Key? Saxophone Transposition Chartīefore we get into the details on each instrument and how transposing the saxophone works, we’ll give you what you came from right off the bat: the transposition chart for saxophones.

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