Delta Charter Music

← Saxophone · Scales · about 15 min

The octave key

One thumb, a whole second register. Learn how the same fingers play two different notes.

Why there's an octave key

An octave is the distance from one note to the next note with the same name. Low G and high G are an octave apart.

The sax uses the same fingers for both. The octave key on your left thumb is what makes the difference. It opens a tiny hole that helps the sound jump up.

Rule: from D (fourth line) and up, press the octave key.

Same fingers, new note

Look at low G and high G. The fingers are the same. The only difference is your left thumb.

GG
octave 123L 123R
Left hand only: first, second, and third fingers down. Right hand rests.
octave 123L 123R
Thumb on the octave key, left hand all down. Same fingers as low G, plus the octave key.

Filled circle = press that key. Empty circle = leave it up. Numbers are fingers: 1 is your index finger.

Practice

  1. Thumb ready

    Rest your left thumb lightly on the octave key. Press it down with a small, quick movement.

  2. Low to high

    Play low G for 4 counts, then press the octave key for high G for 4 counts. Keep the air steady. It should jump without squeaking.

  3. Aim the air

    For high notes, keep your air fast and your mouth shape the same. Do not bite harder.

If it squawks

I got a loud squawk going up.

Your thumb moved late, or you changed your mouth. Keep the same mouth shape and press the key at the same moment as the note starts.

The high note is weak or airy.

Use faster air. Think of whispering a high note, with focus.

I accidentally play the low note.

The octave key was not fully pressed. Roll your thumb onto the key, rather than pressing the edge.

Can you…