Alternate fingerings on scales

[Jazzophone]

I've heard a lot of people talking about the need to learn alternate fingerings (ie side Bb, C, F#, whatever) depending on which scale you're playing / which key you are in. I don't know where to find that - does anyone know which alternates you should use where?

Thanks.

[Razzy]

I say to mix them up. Certain fingerings are mandatory at times though. My general rule is Biss Bb for scales with Bb, and side Bb for scales with A#, not counting overlapping keys like C# and Cb (just count those as Db and B). Side F# use only in scales containing both F and F#, that's kind of a no brainer. And side C, well, just mix it up. I usually just use it in the second octave of scales containing B and C or Bb and C so my right index finger is in better position to get to the side E key. Or, if you're playing scales in octaves only, use it at the top of a C major scale.

[alsdiego]

Razzy,

When playing a G major scale, or a D7 scale, do you use "regular" C (L2) in the middle register? I've been experimenting with that, and find it's somewhat more comfortable than using side C, since your right hand is then in better position for the next note (D).

Your thoughts?

Al

[tubbycub]

How about high notes when doing scales?
Say for major scales, do you use the front E and F keys or just the palm keys?

I personally find that the blowing technique is very different for front and palm keys. The front keys seem to require more throating than the palm keys. Thus, moving from high D to E or F on front key requires some drastic adjustments.

Any comments?

[MS]

In chromatic scales, Use side C, Bb and chromatic F#. All other situations depend on the note that comes before and after. Use common sense there. For trills or patterns like trills, use the alternate fingerings. Good luck and have fun! :D

[Lambik]

I think, when just playing scales, the palm keys come in handier (less movement required). But when playing a song, I'd say: mix 'em up.

Eg. When playing a high F, and you have to drop to a high C, and you are using the palm keys, chances are that you won't close all holes at the same time. I'd use a front F for that.

I don't really buy all the "in that occassion, you have to use THAT fingering". Which of course doesn't mean I think you shouldn't KNOW or USE those fingerings. I mean that, after some time, your "sax feeling" will develop and you finger A (not THE) correct fingering at the right time.

After playing a few years on the same sax, you'll find out some fingerings that aren't in most fingering charts. E.g. I once had to play at quite a fast tempo a high D-high F trill. To do this with exact precision is quite a quest, if you finger the normal fingering (palm keys or front F). I just used my high D and added my high F# keys, which was very handy and quite in tune. I tried this on another saxophone, and it was helpless out of tune.

Just this example that experience (not that I am very experienced, but I do like experimenting with the sax :)) will give you a feeling and a better control over your sax... Not just for fingerings, but for breath control for those high notes (and front F and E) as well.

[SAdoublex]

How about high notes when doing scales?
Say for major scales, do you use the front E and F keys or just the palm keys?


what are you talkin about fron E and F keys?