The alto member of the family of wind instruments invented by Adolphe Sax in 1840. The alto saxophone (alto sax) is made of brass with a tapered bore. It has a single reed similar to a clarinet and a fingering system is based on that of the oboe. The alto saxophone is a common instrument in saxophone ensembles, concert and symphonic bands, big bands, and often as a solo instrument in rock, Rock n' Roll, rhythm and blues, and jazz genres.

See also soprano saxophone, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, bass saxophone.

Alto Saxophone Photo courtesy of G. Leblanc Corporation

QTVR EXAMPLE:

Alto Saxophone