How to play B on Alto Saxophone

Written by Greger Hillman, Saxophone teacher and music educator

This sax lesson covers how to play B on Alto Saxophone. This is one of the first notes you learn on the sax as a beginner. The B note can be played in three octaves on your saxophone and I will cover all three fingerings, so that you have everything you need when it comes to playing B on your sax. Sound good? Alright, let's get started.

Play middle B on Alto Saxophone

To play middle B flat Alto Saxophone you only need to use one finger in your left hand.

Push down the B key on the front of your saxophone with your index finger. That's the upper main pearl key, skipping the absolute top key (also referred to as the fork F key).

Play high B on Alto Saxophone

To play high B on Alto Saxophone you need two fingers in your left hand

First, Using your index finger in your left hand push down the B key on the front of your sax. That's the upper main pearl key, skipping the absolute top key (also referred to as the fork F key).
Second, add the octave key with your left thumb on the back of the saxophone

That's it. Now you have the correct fingering for high B on Alto sax.

Play low B on Alto Saxophone

To play low B on Alto Saxophone you need to use both hands with the main keys as well as both pinkys.

In your left hand: Press down the main three pearled keys (G fingering) on the front of the saxophone. Skipping the absolute top key (also referred to as the fork F key).
In your right hand: Press down the main three pearled keys (low D fingering) on the front of the saxophone.
Finally, using your right pinky press the low C plate key. At the same time, with your left pinky press the inner plate key.

Note from the saxophone teacher: Playing low B on sax can be a bit tricky at first. You can learn this more easily by “walking down” from the notes above low B. Starting on low E going to low D and onto low C and finally adding that left pinky for low B can help you play that note more easily. Keeping a steady embouchure with your mouth around the mouthpiece and good air support will also improve your tone for the lower notes on the saxophone.