Altissimo notes can be challenging for saxophone players. Thus, it is tricky to play an alto sax high G.
The altissimo range of an alto or tenor saxophone is a bit tough to get into. It is hard to imagine how easy a pro player can do this, and it takes some time for an experienced player to reach the notes to play.
You can achieve the lower notes on sax by using the correct fingerings. But, altissimo notes need a combination of complicated overtone fingerings, embouchure and breath control.
This article will briefly discuss easy fingering techniques and learning tips to achieve that altissimo G on the alto saxophone.
What is Altissimo?
Altissimo notes are overtones, which are higher than the standard saxophone notes.
It can be challenging to produce overtones because you have to make minor adjustments in your throat and mouth and mentally visualise the tone. It isn’t easy to accurately pitch an overtone without first imagining the sound.
Altissimo Fingering Chart
The altissimo fingerings demonstrate how to play the notes in the fourth octave, located at the saxophone’s very top.
On your sax, one might perform better than the other. Depending on your saxophone, fingerings for altissimo notes can be more challenging. Your saxophone may have some extra keys, depending on how new it is.
To help you with the fundamentals that you will use most frequently, you can refer to this fingering chart.
How to Play Overtones
Overtones occur when you finger one note on your saxophone, such as low B-flat, and can play different notes in partials above the note using the same fingering.
Practising your overtones first will significantly aid your ability to play altissimo notes. You can begin practising overtones over three octaves on low B-flat, B, and C, and occasionally go up to C-sharp and D.
How to Play High G on Alto Saxophone
When progressing to altissimo G, you may use the following front fingerings:
- high E,
- F, and
- F-sharp
There are different finger positions to hit the high G. One technique might do better than your other sax. Thus, it is essential to experiment with fingering techniques and adjust which works best for your sax.
Learning Tips in Playing Altissimo Notes
Slow down.
Take your time and read each note carefully. Focus on getting each the best sound you can. Your first altissimo note might not sound perfect, but patience is the key to learning.
Assess your fingers.
Make sure your finger placements are accurate. Try using a mirror to see what’s happening at the tips of your hands. Keep in mind how each fingering feels. Practice the fingerings patiently, as some finger shapes are challenging.
Work your way up.
Starting with the front E finger, gradually move up the chromatic scale to F, F#, and then high G. On each note, try to produce your best tone. Going from a note, you can get a great sound on first is always more straightforward.
Try different fingerings.
On your sax, one fingering technique might be more effective than another.
The octave mechanism differs between sax models, and some parts of those mechanisms occasionally need to be played with to work correctly.
Try using your palm keys or other approaches to see which one suits your sax the best.
Experiment with your tongue position.
When playing high G, consider flattening your tongue. Tiny changes to your tongue position are necessary to make overtones work.
Find what works for you, and remember how it feels and sounds for the next session.
Keep your throat open.
To get your overtones to sound clear, you must have a lot of air. An open throat is necessary and will benefit your playing as a whole.
Visualise the pitch.
Work out the sound of the note you want to play. You can play the note on a lower octave key and then imagine playing it higher, or you can play it on a piano.
To remember the pitch, try singing it to yourself. It is always a good idea to hear the pitch first when playing the saxophone in general. It significantly improves intonation and tone.
Consider how much mouthpiece you are using.
A little mouthpiece will make it difficult to play your altissimo notes, so be careful not to use one. If you use too much mouthpiece, the sound will be harsh. If it’s thin, try using a bit more.
Remember how each sound feels.
Along with learning new finger techniques, you are also adjusting your embouchure. Take a moment to consider the feeling you get when you hear a sound you like, and then keep that in mind the next time.
Choosing the Right Altissimo Fingerings For You
Feel free to use a different fingering if you already do so or find one you prefer.
Sometimes you have to make compromises when experimenting with different fingering techniques. In addition to wanting a good sound and a note in tune, you also want something reasonably simple to reach from other notes.
If you want to learn more about playing an alto or tenor saxophone, Sax school online offers different sax lessons that will help you improve your saxophone skills. Join Sax school and access all their saxophone lessons online.
