The most commonly used type of saxophone in jazz music is the tenor saxophone. The tenor saxophone, tuned in B♭, has a rich and powerful tone that is well-suited for jazz improvisation and expressive playing. Many famous jazz saxophonists, such as John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, and Stan Getz, have prominently featured the tenor saxophone in their performances, contributing to its widespread use in jazz music.
The alto saxophone is also commonly used in jazz music, particularly in small ensembles and big bands. It has a slightly higher pitch than the tenor saxophone and is known for its warm and expressive tone, making it suitable for various styles of jazz music.
While the tenor and alto saxophones are the most commonly used saxophones in jazz, other types such as the soprano saxophone and baritone saxophone are also used in jazz performances, albeit less frequently. The choice of saxophone type depends on the musical style, the desired sound, and the preferences of the musician or band leader.