The tenor saxophone is a powerful and expressive woodwind instrument that plays a central role in jazz, rock, classical, and contemporary music. Designed with a curved body and a wide bore, the tenor saxophone is larger than the alto but smaller than the baritone saxophone. It is pitched in the key of B♭ and typically notated a major ninth higher than it sounds. To produce its wide range of notes, the tenor saxophone​ relies on a complex system of tone holes covered and uncovered by pads operated by keys. Understanding the number and function of these holes is essential for players, repair technicians, and enthusiasts.

Understanding the Concept of ‘Holes’ on a Saxophone

When discussing how many holes a tenor saxophone has, it’s important to define what we mean by “holes.” These are tone holes—openings in the body of the saxophone that are covered or uncovered by keys to produce different pitches. The pads on the keys seal these holes when pressed, changing the length of the air column and thus altering the pitch. Unlike flutes or recorders, saxophones do not have holes directly covered by the fingers; rather, all are operated through a key mechanism.

General Structure and Design of the Tenor Saxophone

The tenor saxophone consists of three main parts: the mouthpiece, the neck (or crook), and the body. The body is where the majority of the tone holes are located. From top to bottom, keys and holes are arranged in a specific pattern to facilitate smooth transitions across two and a half octaves of range. Each tone hole is precisely placed and sized to ensure proper tuning and intonation. Most saxophones are made of brass and coated with lacquer or plating to protect the surface and affect the tone color.

How Many Holes Are There on a Tenor Saxophone?

A standard tenor saxophone has between 20 and 23 tone holes, depending on the model, manufacturer, and additional features. Here is a breakdown:

1. Basic Tone Holes

There are typically 11 to 13 primary tone holes that correspond to the basic diatonic and chromatic notes. These include:

Left hand: B, A, G, F, E, D

Right hand: C, B, A

2. Auxiliary and Trill Holes

Additional smaller holes support alternate fingerings, trills, and improved tuning. These can include:

• Side keys for high E, high F#, and high G

• Auxiliary F and front F

• Trill keys for C and D

3. Palm and Pinky Key Holes

Palm keys allow for playing high notes (E, F, F#), while pinky keys operate the lower notes (C#, B, Bb). Each of these keys is connected to a tone hole.

4. Octave Pips

Tenor saxophones feature one or more small octave tone holes, typically on the neck and body, which are used to facilitate register changes by altering the air column.

5. Total Hole Count Estimate

Combining all standard and auxiliary tone holes, the number typically lands around:

Primary tone holes: 11-13

Trill and auxiliary: 3-5

Palm and pinky key holes: 4-6

Octave vents: 1-2

Total: 20 to 23 holes

Why the Number of Holes May Vary

The number of tone holes on a tenor saxophone may vary slightly depending on design choices by manufacturers. For example:

• Some modern saxophones include a high F# or G key, adding an extra hole.

• Vintage models may lack certain auxiliary keys.

• Custom instruments may include tuning enhancers or additional trill keys.

Function of Each Type of Hole

Each tone hole serves a specific purpose in shaping the instrument’s tone and range:

Primary Holes

These create the standard range of notes. Their size and placement are critical for accurate tuning.

Trill and Auxiliary Holes

These allow the player to execute fast passages and alternate fingerings more efficiently. They also help improve tuning on certain notes.

Octave Holes

These enable the saxophone to jump from the lower to the upper register by venting a small portion of the air column.

The Mechanics Behind the Key and Hole System

Each tone hole is paired with a pad and a key mechanism. When the player presses a key, it moves a lever system that closes a pad over the hole. The system involves rods, springs, and sometimes articulated arms. This mechanical design allows fast, responsive action and airtight sealing to maintain tone quality.

Impact on Tuning and Intonation

The location and size of each tone hole directly influence pitch. Proper adjustment and alignment are essential to prevent air leaks, which can detune notes or create resistance. Over time, tone hole edges may warp or collect grime, so maintenance is crucial. Advanced saxophonists also use techniques like embouchure control and voicing to fine-tune intonation beyond what the holes alone provide.

Role in Articulation and Sound Production

When air travels through the saxophone, it vibrates the column inside the tube. The open or closed holes change the length of the air column, determining the frequency and thus the pitch. Quick articulation is made possible by the efficient layout of the holes and keys, especially in fast jazz or classical passages.

Conclusion

The tenor saxophone is a finely tuned wind instrument, and its system of tone holes is a core part of its expressive capabilities. With around 20 to 23 holes, each carefully crafted and positioned, the instrument can produce a wide array of notes with clarity and precision. These holes, while small and often unnoticed by casual observers, are fundamental to the saxophone’s magic. Knowing how many holes there are—and more importantly, how they work—helps players deepen their understanding and improve their performance.

Whether you’re a beginner learning your first scales or an advanced player exploring complex solos, being aware of the tone hole system on your tenor saxophone can elevate your playing. Pay attention to their maintenance, understand their function, and appreciate the craftsmanship behind them. After all, every note you play depends on these precisely engineered openings in brass.