Tenor

The tenor saxophone is a medium-sized member of the saxophone family invented by Adolphe Sax in the 1840s. It is the most common size of saxophone and is a transposing instrument, pitched in the key of B. It is written as a transposing instrument in the treble clef, sounding a major ninth lower than the written pitch.

The tenor saxophone uses a slightly larger reed, ligature and mouthpiece than the alto.

In concert bands, the tenor plays mostly a supporting role, sometimes sharing parts with the euphonium, horn and trombone. In jazz ensembles, the tenor plays a more prominent role, often sharing parts or harmonies with the alto saxophone. The tenor saxophone is used in many different types of ensembles, including big band jazz ensembles, concert bands, small jazz ensembles, and marching bands. It is occasionally included in pieces written for chamber ensembles and for symphony orchestra. Three examples of this are Ravels Boléro, Prokofievs suite from Lieutenant Kije,and Weberns Quartet for tenor saxophone, clarinet, piano and violin.