Description: intervals smaller than a semitone
Notation: notations vary, but the examples shown seem typical of quartertones and raised & lowered inflections.
Comments: Most quartertones are possible on the sax, but the player will need to prepare them in advance.
N.B. there is no fingering for G quarter-sharp.
Multiphonics (played)
Description: playing chords - more than one note at a time.
Notation: Occasionally composers write all the notes of the chord that they wish to hear and/or provide a fingering diagram which may be above the note or in an appendix.
Comments: Although specialist manuals often give highly detailed fingerings for chord production, the variability of instruments, players and playing techniques makes it difficult to assume a specific effect from a particular fingering.
Multiphonics (sung)
Description: singing and playing into the instrument simultaneously.
Notation: write the sung notes in small noteheads and/or verbal instruction - sing into instrument or growl.
Comments: Growling, or singing into the instrument while playing, is a recognised substitute for fluttertonguing, but is also quite characteristic of certain kinds of raucous sax playing styles.
Air Notes
Description: blowing air into the instrument without producing a tone.
Notation: may be pitched (write verbal instruction above the note) or unpitched.
Comments: Effective on the saxophone, and a wide range of articulations and dynamics may be used. Pitches may also be specified.
Mutes
Description: inserting an object into bell
Comments: Mutes do exist for the saxophone but are very rarely used.
Slap Tongue
Description: violent release of the tongue, creating a 'slap' as the vacuum is opened.
Notation: verbal instruction
Comments: very effective on the baritone.
Key Clicks
Description: clicking instrument keys
Notation: x-shaped noteheads and verbal instruction
Comments: Works best on baritone, but effective on all the instruments.











