Saxophone tubing length
What is the tubing length of the following saxophones: sopranino, soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone?
The tubing lengths of the various types of saxophones vary depending on their pitch and design. Here are the approximate lengths of the tubing for the sopranino, soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone saxophones:
- Sopranino Saxophone: Approximately 17 inches (43 cm) in tubing length. This saxophone is pitched in E♭.
- Soprano Saxophone: Approximately 23 inches (58 cm) in tubing length. It is pitched in B♭ and is similar in size to a clarinet.
- Alto Saxophone: Approximately 29 inches (74 cm) in tubing length. The alto saxophone is pitched in E♭ and is widely used in many musical styles.
- Tenor Saxophone: Approximately 37 inches (94 cm) in tubing length. Pitched in B♭, it has a larger size and a deeper sound compared to the alto saxophone.
- Baritone Saxophone: Approximately 52 inches (132 cm) in tubing length. This E♭ pitched saxophone is known for its deep, rich tone.\
These lengths represent the approximate linear length of the tubing when stretched out, not the end-to-end length of the instrument as it is designed and built. The design and curvature of each saxophone type affect the overall physical length but not the effective length of the air column, which determines the pitch.