Alto Saxophone
Woodwind family
Listen to Examples
Guidelines for Success
- Hands are large enough to reach around keys.
- Thumbs are not double-jointed.
- Eye-hand coordination is good.
- Students will use a neckstrap to help hold the weight of the instrument.
- Reading skills are above average.
- Limited availability.
Alto Saxophone Supplies
Call to Order
A quality instrument is crucial for successful learning. Parents can call (800) 637-6872 to order supplies from District 47's preferred vendor, Quinlan and Fabish, Mon-Fri. 11am-7pm or Sat. 9am-3pm or order online with the buttons below...
Method Book
5th grade students will read music from their own method book entitled, "Habits of a Successful Beginner Band Musician."
Music Stand
Students will set up their own music stand at full band. We use the Hamilton KB400N music stand and the Hamilton KB12 carrying bag.
3-Ring Binder
Please help our class run smoothly and organize our songs, worksheets and other handouts in a 3-ring binder.
Reeds
When re-ordering, get the blue box of Rico Royal Alto Sax reeds, strength 2½. You need at least 3 good reeds at all times.
Ligature
Saxophone players will use a Rovner dark ligature to secure the reed on the Selmer C-Star mouthpiece.
Swab
Use a swab to keep your saxophone clean and dry after playing. Watch Video.
Cork Grease
Saxophone are easier to put together with cork grease.
Mouthpiece Brush
Rinse in a sink when using brushes.
Inventor of Alto Saxophone
In the 1840s, Adolphe Sax invented the saxophone family. In today's concert band, saxophones play harmonies and blend with other band instruments. Saxophones are also very popular jazz and solo instruments.
Alto Saxophone Family
The saxophone family includes the Bb Soprano, Eb Alto (the most common), Bb Tenor, Eb Baritone, and Bb Bass Saxophone. Fingerings are virtually the same for all saxophones, making it possible for a saxophonist to play any of the instruments.
Composers & Performers
John Philip Sousa wrote for saxophones in his band compositions. Bizet, Ravel, Debussy, and Prokofiev included saxophones in their orchestral writing. Duke Ellington's jazz arrangements greatly defined the unique sound of the instruments, both in solo and ensemble playing. Some famous saxophone performers are Eugene Rousseau, Sigurd Rascher, David Sanborn, Branford Marsalis, and Gerry Mulligan.
Note Chart
