There are typically five saxophones that comprise the Saxophone section within the standard big band format; and often, said players double on other woodwind instruments such as Flute, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Oboe or Bassoon etc. The conventional layout is to have two Altos, two Tenors and a Baritone arranged as illustrated below:
The saxes are typically lined up as follows (from left to right as the audience views it): Tenor I (lead), Alto II, Alto I, Tenor II and Baritone.
The reasoning is as follows: Tenor I is responsible for most of the solos, so it makes sense for said player to be next to the rhythm section. Alto I leads the section and is usually the highest voice in the section, so they are positioned in the middle where they can be heard. Alto II sits next to Alto I because their pitches are usually next to each other; the baritone sits at the far right in front of the Bass Trombonist, with whom they often share the same lines.
The roles:
-
First alto: is generally the strongest and most influential player in the section. The mission of this player is to direct the section in stylistic concepts: set the standard for pitch, articulation and phrasing; and strike a relationship or connection with the brass and rhythm sections.
Second alto: supports the lead. Intonation is critical for this part as well as the ability to adapt to variations from the lead alto player
First Tenor: generally the strongest soloist and may get opportunities to lead some soli sections. Blending is vital.
Second Tenor: helps support the bari on the bottom of the chord structures, sometimes gets solo opportunities, sometimes doubles the lead; and often plays rather disjunct lines.
Baritone: plays colour tones and roots, doubling the lead, teaming up with the bass Trombone, teaming up with the bass or playing a solo.