Can you identify the 3 major saxophone types?

We all like to learn new things (hopefully). Even better when we are able to give someone the answer they were looking for and be admired for our worldly knowledge. Today, I'll be giving you a little information that can help you stand out from the crowd of music lovers and give you a great conversation starter whenever you're enjoying some live saxophone.

Did you know that there are 3 major types of saxophone used in popular music today?
Check out this handy guide below:

1. Tenor

The tenor saxophone is perhaps the most recognizable of the 3 saxophones we will be looking at. It is larger than the alto and has a much deeper, more husky sound. Famous tenor players include Coleman Hawkins, Stan Getz, John Coltrane, Joe Henderson, and with Bruce Springsteen, the late Clarence Clemmons. You can always tell a tenor by looking at the curved neck.

2. Alto

The alto is slightly smaller than the tenor and is pitched a bit higher. If the tenor sax is an SUV, the alto is a coupe. Unlike the tenor, the alto has a straight neck, pictured here. It has a very strong mid-range but can play low and high notes as well. Famous alto players include Charlie Parker and Sonny Stitt.

3. Soprano

Soprano is the least common of the 3 types here. It is in the same key as the tenor saxophone (Bb) and as such reads the same music - it just sounds an octave higher. Most popularly used by Kenny G, the soprano sax is commonly confused with a clarinet because of it's straight body shape.

There are many other saxophones, but these are the 3 variations that you will encounter the most. At your next party with a saxophonist I hope you'll be able to make the distinction between the 3 and impress guests with your newfound musical knowledge!