Tonehole

Saxophone · Middle register register

Saxophone fingering for B5

Left hand 1, octave key. Basic.

Full chart Check with tuner
Saxophone B5 fingering: Left hand 1, octave key.
Standard fingeringLeft hand 1, octave key.Basic.
Written noteB 5 — B5 in scientific pitch notation.

What it sounds like

InstrumentSounding pitchFrequency (A4 = 440 Hz)
Soprano sax (B♭)A5880.00 Hz
Alto sax (E♭)D5587.33 Hz
Tenor sax (B♭)A4440.00 Hz
Baritone sax (E♭)D4293.66 Hz

Tip for the middle register register

The octave key switches the left-thumb vent automatically between two holes. Middle D and E♭ can be unstable — keep a consistent voicing and don't bite.

Frequently asked questions

How do you play B5 on the saxophone?

Standard fingering: Left hand 1, octave key. Basic.

What does written B5 sound like on the saxophone?

Soprano sax (B♭): A5 (880.0 Hz); Alto sax (E♭): D5 (587.3 Hz); Tenor sax (B♭): A4 (440.0 Hz); Baritone sax (E♭): D4 (293.7 Hz).