Synonyms for

Alto

Verb / ˈæltəʊ / Another word for alto — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Alto is a musical term used for a type of singing voice or a musical instrument in the lowest range of a family of instruments.

Synonyms & similar words

countertenor contralto contralto countertenor low-pitched deep-toned bass baritone tenor mezzo-soprano soprano treble viola cello bassoon clarinet saxophone horn trombone trumpet organ piano

Synonyms by register

Formal

contralto tenor bass

Informal

low voice second soprano

Literary

lower register darker tone

Antonyms

soprano treble high upper lead

Common collocations

  • alto saxophone
  • alto clef
  • alto voice
  • alto part
  • alto singer
  • alto range
  • alto solo

Word family

noun alto
adjective alto

Usage note

Primarily used in music to refer to a low female singing voice or a high male singing voice, or an instrument in that range. Can also refer to the second highest part in a four-part harmony.

Example sentences

  1. She prefers to sing alto in the choir.
  2. The alto section of the orchestra sounded beautiful.
  3. The alto saxophone is his favorite instrument to play.
  4. My mom's singing voice is an alto.
  5. The choir director asked for more volume from the altos.

Quotes

  • Music is the divine way to tell beautiful, poetic things to the heart...especially when it is played on an alto saxophone.
  • I was always singing and playing guitar and piano and always writing my own stuff, but it wasn't until I started singing alto with the jazz band that I really started to feel like I had a place in the world.
  • The alto saxophone is the most expressive of all instruments.

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