Tonehole

Saxophone · Low register register

Saxophone fingering for B♭3 / A♯3

Left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2-3, low B♭ key, low C key (right pinky). Basic — lowest note.

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Saxophone B♭3 fingering: Left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2-3, low B♭ key, low C key (right pinky).
Standard fingeringLeft hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2-3, low B♭ key, low C key (right pinky).Basic — lowest note.
Written noteB flat 3 — Bb3 in scientific pitch notation.

What it sounds like

InstrumentSounding pitchFrequency (A4 = 440 Hz)
Soprano sax (B♭)A♭3207.65 Hz
Alto sax (E♭)D♭3138.59 Hz
Tenor sax (B♭)A♭2103.83 Hz
Baritone sax (E♭)D♭269.30 Hz

Tip for the low register register

Low notes need more mouthpiece-in-mouth stability and an open throat; avoid pinching. Subtone practice (soft low notes) builds control.

Frequently asked questions

How do you play B♭3 (A♯3) on the saxophone?

Standard fingering: Left hand 1-2-3, right hand 1-2-3, low B♭ key, low C key (right pinky). Basic — lowest note.

What does written B♭3 sound like on the saxophone?

Soprano sax (B♭): A♭3 (207.7 Hz); Alto sax (E♭): D♭3 (138.6 Hz); Tenor sax (B♭): A♭2 (103.8 Hz); Baritone sax (E♭): D♭2 (69.3 Hz).