← Saxophone · Playing together · about 15 min
Playing with others (transposition)
Why your G is the piano's Bb, and how to find the right key for the group.
The big idea
Saxophones are transposing instruments. When you play a written note, the sound that comes out is a different note.
That is on purpose. It lets a sax player switch between alto, tenor, and other saxes without learning new fingerings.
Concert pitch is the name for what a piano plays. Piano, guitar, and flute are all in concert pitch.
What does your sax sound like?
| Sax | Called | Written C sounds | Written G sounds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alto | Eb instrument | Eb | Bb |
| Tenor | Bb instrument | Bb | F |
Find your key
Pick the key the band is playing in. We'll tell you the key to read.
Concert key (what the piano plays):
The jam day rule
Alto sax
Play a major sixth above concert. Easy way to remember: concert C → you play A.
Tenor sax
Play a major ninth above concert. That's a whole step above, one octave up. Concert C → you play D.
When in doubt
Ask: “What key are we in, concert pitch?” Then use the tool above.
Questions
Do I need to transpose when I play alone?
No. Play what is written. Only transpose to play with piano, guitar, or non-transposing instruments.
Is my music already transposed?
Sax sheet music from your teacher or a sax book already is. Piano or guitar music (chord charts, lead sheets) is not.
Do alto and tenor use the same fingerings?
Yes. The same fingers play the same written notes. The sound is just lower on tenor.