In theory, tenor sax is slightly more difficult because it is heavier, requires larger hands to play and takes a bit more air than the alto sax. In practice, these differences are not a big deal for an adult or a teenager. A younger child (< 13) might have some difficulty handling a larger instrument like the tenor.

Is tenor or alto sax easier?

It’s a great way to develop your skills because the mouthpiece is a nice, easy size that suits everybody. For younger players, I always recommend they learn to play the alto saxophone because it’s easier to manage. It’s smaller, and it’s lighter. It’s easier to carry and handle.
 

Is it better to learn alto or tenor sax?

Size differences



For most students aged around 14 and up, the size and weight differences will not be a barrier to entry at all, but for younger students (13 and under) the alto saxophone is almost always going to be a better option. Check out the neck of the tenor saxophone.

Which saxophone is hardest to learn?

soprano sax

The soprano sax is a Bb instrument. It is the smallest of the four main saxophones. It can be either straight or curved. The soprano is known as the hardest saxophone to play.

Which sax is the easiest to play?

alto saxophone

The alto saxophone is easier to play than the soprano saxophone, and so it is a good choice for beginners. A simple comparison of the length of the soprano and alto saxophones shows that they are about the same, 70 centimeters long.

Is it hard to play tenor sax?

Soprano, alto, tenor or baritone, the sax is one of the easier musical instruments to get started with. The keys were designed for easy, logical use, the mouthpiece is less complex than it’s orchestral counterparts and playing in tune with a good tone is feasible within a few practice sessions.
 

Is alto sax higher than tenor sax?

The alto is the most commonly-played type of saxophone and the instrument that most beginners start to learn on. It’s an E flat instrument, and is pitched higher than the tenor and lower than the soprano.
 

Which saxophone is best for jazz?

Tenor Saxophone

With its rich and warm tones, and its relatively lightweight body, the Tenor Saxophone is considered the mainstay instrument in the genre, and has been widely associated with some of the world’s most popular jazz musicians such as John Coltrane and Charlie Parker.

Is tenor sax louder than alto?

Both alto and tenor will be loudish in the hands of a beginner – you will be able to play quieter once you have been playing a while. Tenor is probably louder, in part due to its bigger physical size.
 

Is tenor or alto more popular?

The Alto Saxophone is the #1 type in terms of worldwide sales. It has become very popular due to the size and versatility of tone. The Alto is used in all types of musical scenarios, from jazz to classical. It has a higher ‘voice’ compared to the Tenor, but is not as high pitched as the Soprano.
 

Is tenor or alto sax versatile?

ALTO Saxophones: The Best Option for Beginners



Undoubtedly the most common and versatile sax of all… The alto sax can be seen across almost all musical genres, from jazz and classical music to rock and pop. Some say its pitch is similar that of a female voice, (while the tenor is closer to a male’s).

Do tenors sing higher than Altos?

Is Alto Sax Harder to Play Than Tenor Sax? And the Answer Is:

Is the tenor sax good for a first instrument?

Both the alto and tenor saxophones are part of the woodwind family, both use wooden reeds to create sound, and both make excellent beginner instruments!
 

Should I switch from alto to tenor sax?

High notes on the tenor are easy to get if you are used to playing an alto. So, no, although it may disrupt it very slightly in the initial stages, playing the tenor sax will not negatively impact your playing on the alto in the mid or long term. Overall it’s a great thing to be able to play both instruments.

Is tenor or alto sax versatile?

ALTO Saxophones: The Best Option for Beginners



Undoubtedly the most common and versatile sax of all… The alto sax can be seen across almost all musical genres, from jazz and classical music to rock and pop. Some say its pitch is similar that of a female voice, (while the tenor is closer to a male’s).

Do you need big hands to play tenor sax?

You don’t need big hands to play the saxophone. In fact, it’s commonly the case that fingers are too large, and the playing style needs some adjusting. Alas, little kids may have to wait until they reach about 10 years of age to push the keys of an alto saxophone.

Does playing saxophone change your face?

Conclusions. Playing a wind instrument can influence tooth position and facial morphology in both children and adults. Aspects that stand out are overjet, arch width, facial divergence/convergence and lip thickness.

Do you need strong lungs to play saxophone?

Breathing. If you want to be able to sustain notes or play with a decent amount of volume, you have to make sure your lungs are as strong as they can be.