| A saxophone is a musical instrument that belongs in | | | | The alto, like all other saxophones, is a transposing |
| the woodwind category. It is one of the youngest | | | | instrument. It is in the key of E-Flat. It is slightly longer |
| musical instruments, having been invented in the 1840s | | | | than the soprano, and also lower sounding. Hence, it is |
| by Adolphe Sax, a Belgian. Saxophones were earlier | | | | a preferred solo jazz instrument. |
| used in the military and in big orchestras but are now | | | | The main parts in an alto saxophone are: the |
| found in smaller bands as well. They are generally | | | | mouth-piece, including the ligature and the reed; the |
| used for big band music, pop music, concerts, marching | | | | main tube that has tone holes and keys; a series of |
| bands and jazz music. There are four commonly used | | | | rods that connect the keys to the tone holes; the pads |
| kinds of saxophones: Soprano, Alto, Tenor and | | | | that securely cover the tone holes and, most |
| Baritone saxophones. | | | | importantly, the bell. |
| The alto saxophone is the most common saxophone | | | | The local music store, mail-order service, a private |
| in use. It is a basic model, and is generally preferred for | | | | party or the Internet are different places where one |
| beginners because of its comfortable shape and size. | | | | can buy alto saxophones. The main aspects to be |
| The alto is of medium size. It is shaped like a "J" bent | | | | considered are the quality, service, price and the model. |
| backwards. Some alto saxophones are also straight in | | | | The Internet is a good source to find information about |
| shape with a slightly tipped bell. The alto is usually | | | | alto saxophones, but it is wise to test a few of them |
| preferred for classical compositions from composers | | | | before buying. |
| like Ibert, Glazunov and Debussy. | | | | |