Yes, saxophones can go out of tune due to various factors such as changes in temperature, humidity, or altitude, and the wear and tear on the instrument over time.
Changes in temperature can cause the metal in the saxophone to expand or contract, which can affect the pitch of the instrument. When the temperature drops, the metal can contract, causing the pitch to go sharp. When the temperature rises, the metal can expand, causing the pitch to go flat. This is why it is important to warm up the instrument gradually, by blowing warm air through it before playing, and to adjust the tuning periodically during playing.
Humidity can also affect the saxophone's pitch. Moisture can accumulate in the pads and cause them to swell, which can result in a flat pitch. Additionally, high humidity can cause the metal to corrode, which can also affect the pitch. To prevent these issues, it's important to keep the saxophone clean and dry, and to use a protective case when storing it.
Altitude can also affect the saxophone's pitch. As you move to higher altitudes, the air pressure decreases, causing the pitch of the instrument to go sharp. Conversely, at lower altitudes, the air pressure is higher, causing the pitch to go flat. To compensate for this, saxophonists may need to adjust their embouchure or reed strength, or use a specialized mouthpiece designed for high altitude playing.
Finally, over time, the wear and tear on the instrument can cause the pads, keys, and springs to become misaligned, which can affect the pitch. Regular maintenance, including cleaning, lubrication, and adjustments, can help prevent these issues and keep the instrument in tune.