Mastering the Alternate F# Fingering on Saxophone

Who

This technique benefits saxophonists, from middle school beginners to professional players, performing on alto or tenor saxophone in band, jazz, or solo settings, and band directors guiding them to improve technical fluency and intonation.

What

The challenge is eliminating pitch glitches (G or E blips) during transitions to F# (middle F# on alto, concert A; tenor, concert E) in rapid passages, caused by the standard F# fingering, and ensuring smooth execution with the alternate F# fingering.

Why

The standard F# fingering (left hand on B, A, G keys; right hand middle finger on E key) risks a G blip if the middle finger lifts too soon, or an E blip if the index finger presses the F key before the middle finger lifts, due to unsynchronized finger movements, as noted in The Art of Saxophone Playing. The alternate F# fingering, using the right-hand ring finger on the alternate F# key, stabilizes the air column, eliminates blips, and slightly flattens pitch for better alignment with A=440 Hz.

Where

The alternate F# fingering is applied via:

• Alternate F# Key: Right-hand ring finger on the alternate F# key (near low C# key), with right-hand index finger on F key and standard left-hand fingering.
• Embouchure: Slight adjustments to maintain tone quality.

When

Use the alternate F# fingering in:

• Chromatic Passages: In runs like E-F-F#-G, common in Holst’s First Suite in Eb, to prevent G or E blips.
• Technical Runs: In fast scales or arpeggios in B minor or E major, needing smooth articulation.
• Intonation-Sensitive Sections: In lyrical passages or jazz solos requiring stable pitch.
• High School Repertoire: In advanced pieces with rapid transitions, unlike sustained F# notes where standard fingering suffices.

How

To master the alternate F# fingering:

1. Practice with a Tuner: Compare standard and alternate F# fingerings to confirm improved intonation and tone (A=440 Hz).
2. Incorporate in Scales: Practice B minor or E major scales using alternate F# to build muscle memory, as shown in Klose’s Daily Studies.
3. Use in Context: Apply in chromatic runs or technical passages, ensuring smooth transitions.
4. Avoid F Blip to G: Lift the right-hand index finger (F key) before the ring finger (alternate F# key) when moving to G to prevent an F blip; practice slowly for fluidity.
5. Annotate Repertoire: Mark alternate F# in parts for pieces like Sousa’s Stars and Stripes Forever.
6. Monitor Technique: Ensure relaxed hand positioning to avoid tension in rapid passages.
7. Reinforce in Ensemble: Check F# pitch in rehearsals for blend with other instruments.

Conclusion

The alternate F# fingering, using the right-hand ring finger on the alternate F# key, eliminates G or E blips in chromatic and technical passages on saxophone, improving fluency and intonation. By practicing with tuners, scales, and careful G transitions to avoid an F blip, directors and saxophonists ensure polished performances. My experience teaching this to a high school saxophonist eliminated blips in a jazz chart, enhancing clarity, and empowers students to excel in demanding repertoire.