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Free Saxophone Fingering Chart
One of the great things about the saxophone family is that once you learn the fingering system on one saxophone, you can apply the same system to any other — alto, tenor, soprano, or bari. This chart is your go-to reference for building that foundation. What's in the Chart This fingering chart covers the full standard range of the saxophone, from low Bb up through the altissimo register, with clear diagrams showing which keys to press for each note. The side keys, palm keys, and bis key are all shown, making it useful both for beginners working on the basics and for more experienced players exploring the upper range. Who This Is For Beginning saxophone students learning their first notes Students expanding their range into the upper register Band directors with saxophone players at multiple levels Jazz students exploring the altissimo register One Chart, Every Saxophone Because the saxophone fingering system is consistent across the family, this chart applies equally to alto, tenor, soprano, and baritone saxophone. The only difference is where each instrument sounds relative to concert pitch — but the finger positions for any given written note are the same across all of them.↓ Download the Saxophone Fingering Chart (PDF)
Read moreHow to Care for Your Saxophone
Saxophone care is relatively forgiving compared to some woodwinds, but consistent maintenance keeps your instrument in top playing condition, protects the pads, and prevents the kind of buildup that leads to costly repairs down the road. After Every Practice Session Always swab out the body of the saxophone after playing. A drop-style swab (sometimes called a "duster") works well for the body — drop it through the bell and pull it up through the neck receiver. For the neck, use a separate flexible neck swab. Remove the reed, dry it, and store it in a reed holder. Use a soft cloth or pad paper to gently blot any moisture from the pads — this extends pad life significantly. Wet pads that are left to dry while sticking to their tone holes can tear when the key is next opened. The Mouthpiece Rinse the mouthpiece with lukewarm water (never hot — it can warp plastic mouthpieces) every few days. A small mouthpiece brush helps remove any buildup from inside the chamber. Dry it thoroughly before putting it away. Key and Body Care Wipe down the lacquer body with a soft dry cloth to remove fingerprints and oils. Avoid using silver polish or abrasive cleaners on lacquered instruments — these strip the finish. For silver-plated saxophones, a silver polishing cloth used occasionally keeps the finish bright. When to See a Technician If a note starts ciphering (sounding when it shouldn't), sounds airy, or requires more air than usual, a pad or spring may need attention. An annual check-up with a qualified repair technician is a worthwhile investment for any saxophone player.↓ Download the Saxophone Care Tips (PDF)
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