Basics

• The "alto sax" has a comfortable size and shape compared to the other saxophones, and as such is preferred by beginners over the other types of saxophones (tenor sax, soprano sax, and baritone sax).
  
  

Identification

• The instrument is medium sized and is curved in a backwards "J" shape. Sometimes it will come as a straight model with a tipped bell, but it generally looks like a basic saxophone. The body is made of brass but is a woodwind because it uses a wooden reed as a mouthpiece.
  
  

Function

• The alto saxophone is used in military bands, concert and jazz/funk bands, and popular pop music. The instrument is often used for solos and is rarely played in orchestras.
  
  

History

• Adolphe Sax, a Belgian clarinetist invented the saxophone in 1841 when he placed a clarinet mouthpiece and reed on a brass tube. He then added oboe keys prior to settling in Paris, where he patented the saxophone in 1846. The new instrument gathered fame throughout France and eventually was recognized by American musicians visiting Europe. The saxophone soon after became popular in America, particularly in military bands, marching bands, orchestras, and jazz bands of the Big Band era. The alto sax, however, is perhaps best known as the instrument of choice by such jazz greats as Charlie Parker, Cannonball Adderley, and Ornette Coleman.
  
  

Types

• The basic four saxophones that musicians use today are the soprano, alto, tenor and the baritone sax. While the soprano is the smallest (plays high notes) and the baritone sax is the largest (plays low notes), the alto sax is most commonly used for learning how to play. Most players will begin with the alto due to its comfortable size and playability, and then later switch to the another type if they want. The notes and fingerings are all the same among the different saxophones, so it is usually an easy adjustment.