The soprano saxophone has the highest tonal range of the saxophone family. The most common version of the soprano saxophone is the straight one, but the s-shape version is also often used. The classical version of its sound reminds of the cor anglais or the oboe. Very much like the cor anglais, it is more solistic than any other of the saxophone family. The only saxophone with a higher tonal range is the sopranino saxophone, with higher tonal range and more piercing sound.

Saxophones are made of brass and as with clarinet, the sound source is a mouthpiece made of ebonite with a reed attached to it. The saxophones are not part of the common orchestra instrumentation. Saxophones were designed originally for marching bands to support the woodwinds which were easily overshadowed by the brass instruments.

The sound of saxophone may vary widely: in the classical music different types of reeds may be used compared to jazz music. In jazz and rock music the tone and the techniques are often more varied, not least in the form of excessive use of glissandos.

The saxophone blends well with all instrumentation choices, though its tone may seem dominant.

The soprano saxophone is a transposing instrument, the material written for it must be transposed a whole step up.

Recommended combinations:

Soprano Saxophone with flute
Soprano Saxophone with bassoon
Soprano Saxophone with bass clarinet
Soprano Saxophone with a string instrument
Soprano Saxophone with organ

Listen to the audio sample: