Tonehole

Saxophone · Low register register

Saxophone fingering for C5

Left hand 2. Basic.

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Saxophone C5 fingering: Left hand 2.
Standard fingeringLeft hand 2.Basic.
Saxophone C5 fingering (alternate 1): Left hand 1, side C key.
Alternate 1Left hand 1, side C key.Side C — chromatic fingering next to B.
Written noteC 5 — C5 in scientific pitch notation.

What it sounds like

InstrumentSounding pitchFrequency (A4 = 440 Hz)
Soprano sax (B♭)B♭4466.16 Hz
Alto sax (E♭)E♭4311.13 Hz
Tenor sax (B♭)B♭3233.08 Hz
Baritone sax (E♭)E♭3155.56 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 C5 on the saxophone?

Standard fingering: Left hand 2. Basic.

What does written C5 sound like on the saxophone?

Soprano sax (B♭): B♭4 (466.2 Hz); Alto sax (E♭): E♭4 (311.1 Hz); Tenor sax (B♭): B♭3 (233.1 Hz); Baritone sax (E♭): E♭3 (155.6 Hz).

Are there alternate fingerings for C5?

Yes — 1 alternate: (1) Left hand 1, side C key. Side C — chromatic fingering next to B.