Tenor Saxophones

Tenor Saxophones for Sale

About Tenor Saxophones

The tenor saxophone is one of the most popular woodwind instruments, known for a robust tone and full-bodied resonance that can be powerful, poignant or often both. Within the saxophone family, the tenor saxophone, which is pitched in Bb, is larger and lower-pitched than the alto saxophone but smaller and higher-pitched than the baritone. Quality tenor saxophones are made of brass, bronze or copper alloys, yet they are classified as woodwinds because sound is produced when the player makes a single reed vibrate against a mouthpiece.

The tenor sax is perhaps best known as a premier instrument for jazz soloists, and the most celebrated tenor saxophonists are indeed jazz musicians — including John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gordon and Coleman Hawkins, among many others. The instrument is also a staple in concert bands, wind ensembles, military bands and marching bands, and it has contributed unforgettable solos to R&B, rock and pop. Although the tenor saxophone is not a standard instrument in the symphony orchestra, it has appeared in works by iconic composers and thrives in chamber ensembles such as the saxophone quartet.

Choosing Your Tenor Saxophone

Finding the perfect tenor sax depends on the player's experience, budget and intended use. Here is a breakdown to help you find the right sax:

• Student Tenor Saxophones prioritize comfortable playability, easy tone production and durability to meet the needs of new players and student musicians.
• Intermediate Tenor Saxophones are “step-up” instruments offering upgraded materials and more detailed craftsmanship, resulting in better intonation, richer tone and more precise playability.
• Professional Tenor Saxophones are premium instruments often built with superior materials, intricate hand-finishing and complex acoustic designs. They deliver unparalleled projection, tonal versatility and fluid playability.

Shopping for a Tenor Saxophone

Finding the right instrument should be simple, and with Music & Arts, the perfect tenor saxophone is only a click away — or down the street at one of 250+ Music & Arts stores nationwide.

Explore our wide online selection of tenor saxophones for sale, or drop by your neighborhood store to try out instruments with guidance from an expert store associate.

Tenor Saxophone Buying FAQs

What are the considerations when buying a beginner tenor saxophone?

If you're brand-new to the tenor saxophone, focus on asking these key questions as you shop:

• Brand Reputation: Is the instrument made by a manufacturer known for producing high-quality tenor saxophones appropriate for student ensembles?
• Quality: Features like high-quality pads, blued steel springs, and fit and finish on the keywork are hallmarks of a well-made instrument.
• Comfort: How does the saxophone feel when you lift and hold it? Is it comfortable and easy enough to manage?

For insight into the saxophone family, the various saxophone finishes and more, check out our Saxophone Buying Guide. For hands-on guidance, visit one of our 250+ Music & Arts retail stores, where an expert associate will help you find the perfect tenor saxophone.

Is it better to start on the alto saxophone or tenor saxophone?

Most students start with the alto saxophone, owing to that instrument's smaller size and lighter weight, which makes the alto easier for young learners to play and carry. That said, plenty of new players captivated by the tenor saxophone's deep, rich tone start directly on that instrument.

Can I rent a tenor saxophone from Music & Arts?

Absolutely! Music & Arts offers high-quality, educator-approved tenor saxophones for rent at budget-friendly rates. You can rent in just minutes and enjoy free shipping to your home, school or neighborhood store. Visit our Tenor Saxophone Rental page today to get started.

What brands make high-quality tenor saxophones?

Excellent brands for tenor saxophones include Yamaha, Selmer, P. Mauriat, Eastman, Jupiter, Keilwerth, Yanagisawa, Allora, Etude and Giardinelli — all of which are available at Music & Arts.

What accessories do I need for my tenor saxophone?

Practicing saxophonists need to have items like cork grease, a polishing cloth and swabs on hand. Music & Arts offers the Saxophone Starter Pack from Giardinelli, which bundles a variety of core saxophone accessories into a single budget-friendly kit. For more information on key saxophone accessories, dig into this helpful guide.

Players will also have to explore saxophone reeds, ligatures and mouthpieces to find the unique combination (or “setup”) that works best for their technique and desired sound.