Saxophones are conical wind instruments invented in the 19th century by Belgian Adolphe Sax.
Different Types of Saxophone
This large family of wind instruments is classified by size, ranging from the smallest to the largest, each with a unique range and distinct sound:
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Soprano Saxophone: The smallest saxophone in the family, producing the highest sounds. It comes in two forms: curved and straight. Known for its role in jazz, it is also found in contemporary classical orchestras. The instrument is typically in the key of B-flat (B♭), meaning a written C sounds as B♭.
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Alto Saxophone: Slightly larger than the soprano, with a slightly lower range, it is common in jazz, funk, pop, and classical music. The alto saxophone is tuned to E-flat (E♭).
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Tenor Saxophone: Known for its versatility, it covers a medium range that suits styles from jazz to blues and rock. Like the soprano, it is tuned in B-flat (B♭).
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Baritone Saxophone: Weighing between 5 to 6 kg and producing a lower sound, the baritone is popular in orchestras and smaller ensembles. It is tuned to E-flat (E♭), like the alto.
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Bass Saxophone: The largest saxophone, producing a deep sound, though it is relatively rare.
Popular in jazz circles, saxophones also adapt to various musical styles, thanks to their wide range of acoustic possibilities.
Which Saxophone to Start With?
Choosing between the alto and tenor saxophone is a common question among beginners. Some musicians recommend starting with the alto for its interesting sheet music, while others suggest the tenor, depending on personal fit.
Ultimately, there is no right or wrong choice—personal preference between the B-flat tenor and E-flat alto is key. Our advice is to visit a store and try both to find the one that feels best for you.
What is the Price of a Saxophone?
Saxophones come in a range of prices. For beginners, Yamaha offers quality saxophones around $1,600, a good value for those starting out. If this price is beyond your budget, we also offer high-quality second-hand instruments to help you find a great deal.
