Exploring the World of Saxophones: Soprano, Alto, Tenor & Baritone

While there are many types of saxophones, Adolphe Sax, who invented the instrument, originally patented 14 types in 1846. Here, we'll highlight the four saxophones most commonly used today.

The saxophone is synonymous with jazz, often played with the tenor saxophone, though other types are also popular.

Let's delve into the four saxophones widely used today: the soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone saxophones.

Soprano saxophone

The B-flat soprano saxophone is the highest pitched, often featured in background music. Its distinct sound is instantly recognizable.

Though typically curved, the soprano sax can also be straight like a clarinet.

This saxophone is challenging to learn, as a correct embouchure is crucial. Beginners might find it difficult to form the needed embouchure.

Remember, this saxophone is not ideal for starters.

Alto saxophone

The E-flat alto saxophone is medium-sized and one of the most played saxophones.

Common in school bands and classical music, it's ideal for amateur players with its smaller mouthpiece and curved body.

The alto saxophone plays a significant role in jazz, rock, and blues.

Easier to master, the alto saxophone is a great starting point for new players, alongside the tenor sax as the more beginner-friendly options.

Tenor saxophone

While similar, you can distinguish a tenor sax by its larger neck.

The alto sax has a straight neck for higher tones, but the tenor's crook gives it a larger size.

The tenor saxophone is a jazz staple and often what people imagine when thinking of jazz saxophones.

Pitched in B-flat, many students switch from alto to tenor as it involves no difficult transition, sharing the same fingerings and similar size.

Baritone saxophone

The baritone sax is the largest on our list and is notably bigger.

Pitched in E-flat, it produces a deep bass sound.

Bulky and heavy, it requires a harness to ease its weight when played, often placed on a stand due to its exceptional size.

Though more common in classical music, it occasionally features in jazz solos.

Bigger than the tenor but smaller than the bass, it’s the hefty member of the saxophone family!