This Sax lesson covers how to play G sharp and A flat on Alto Saxophone. This note can be played in two octaves within the normal register on the saxophone and you'll learn them both here.
Before we get started: Even if the G sharp and A flat are two different notes when writing them down in sheet music. They sound the same and are fingered the same way too. This means that when you know how to play G sharp you also know haw to play A flat. So, two for the price of one! Let's get you started.
Play middle G sharp and A flat note on Sax
To play middle G-sharp (and A flat) on saxophone you have to use the three main keys in your left hand and the pinky top key, also in the left hand.
This is basically the G fingering with the pinky added to the G sharp key in your left hand.
Play high G sharp and A flat note on Sax
To play high G-sharp (and A flat) on saxophone you have to use five keys. It's the three main keys in your left hand and the pinky top key, also in the left hand. By adding the octave key (register key) with your left thumb you have the high G sharp (and A flat) fingering.
To sum up…
- G sharp and A flat fingerings on saxophone are the same
- To play the G sharp (A flat) note you only need to use your left hand
- Fingering B, A, G notes and the G sharp note together will give you the A flat note on saxophone
- Playing G sharp (A flat) in the first octave requires four fingerings in your left hand, including the pinky
- Playing the high G sharp and A flat requires five fingers, including both the pinky and thumb on your left hand.
Want to learn all the Saxophone fingerings?
Great! Make sure to download the free Saxophone fingering chart PDF to keep as a reference when you practice your saxophone.
