Altissimo and Overtones

In 1941 the normal range of the saxophone was 2 and a half octaves. From B-flat to F above the staff. Attempts to extend the range were nothing more than experimental. Altissimo range is any note played above High F. Notes in the altissimo range can be played with different fingerings and some using overtones. The production of overtones are based on the principle of harmonics; the first 6 tones in any overtone form a major chord. Harmonics are notes that are played by producing a different note. Physics: If the sound wave of the fundamental is 100Hz the harmonic will be 200Hz, so a 2 times increase. An example of an overtone would be fingering a low Bb but producing a middle Bb, that tone is called the first partial, or first harmonic. To play an overtone like the previous finger B flat and adjust your embouchure and air outtake until the desired tone is reached. Increasing speed of air is also vital for Altissimo.

Factors of clear Altissimo notes and overtones: An aim (having in mind what you want the tone to sound like) A flexible embouchure A controlled air flow.

Citations: http://www.bestsaxophonewebsiteever.com/intro-to-saxophone-overtones-part-1-what-arethey/ Intro to saxophone overtones

http://valdez.dumarsengraving.com/TopTonesfortheSaxophone.pdf Top Tones for the Saxophone by Sigur Rascher http://wardbaxter.com/education/sax_altissimo.pdf Saxophone.