The alto saxophone, which is the most commonly used saxophone, is the third smallest model of these musical instruments that have eight different sizes. A saxophone is basically a woodwind instrument, in which sound is generated by blowing into a hollow cylinder against a vibrating reed. The player can create a tune by adjusting the pitch continuously by using his/her fingers to open or close the numerous holes provided on the body of the instrument. Saxophone learners are first introduced to the alto saxophone and later progress to the tenor saxophone.

An alto saxophone is a transposing instrument, implying that the music is written for this instrument at a pitch different from the normal concert pitch. Thus, the treble clef which is generated through the key of C in the piano is written in the key of E for the saxophone. The notes for an alto saxophone range from concert D to concert A. In addition to these basic notes, accomplished players can hit higher notes in the altissimo range. Through proper finger work on the holes of the instrument and judicious blowing through the mouthpiece using the tongue and the throat, it is possible for a saxophonist to produce tones beyond the normal range of the instrument.

The alto saxophone is a versatile musical instrument ensuring quality sound and also being portable. In classical concerts, the alto saxophone is more popular than the tenor saxophone, certain concertos being exclusively designed for the alto saxophone. Other than western classical concerts, this instrument has found a place in marching bands, jazz and blues performances, pop, funk, and even rock shows. Saxophonists play the instrument by reading the music notes depicted on sheet music and finger charts.