Alto Saxophone · Melodic Minor scale · written pitch
E Melodic Minor scale for Alto Saxophone
2 octaves from E4, key signature 1 sharp (F♯). On the alto saxophone this sounds in concert G minor.
Scale — ascending & descending
Arpeggio
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Fingerings for every note
Notes of the scale
| Degree | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written | E | F♯ | G | A | B | C♯ | D♯ | E |
| Concert | G | A | B♭ | C | D | E | F♯ | G |
Descending, the melodic minor uses the natural minor: D C B A G F♯ E D.
Practice tips
- Ascending, degrees 6 and 7 are raised; descending they return to the key signature (natural minor).
- Practise with a metronome: legato first, then tongued; then in thirds and in rhythms (long–short, short–long).
Frequently asked questions
What are the notes of the E Melodic Minor scale on alto saxophone?
E, F♯, G, A, B, C♯, D♯, E.
What is the key signature of E Melodic Minor?
E minor has 1 sharp (F♯).
What concert key is written E Melodic Minor on the alto saxophone?
Written E minor on the alto saxophone sounds in concert G minor.