The spelling of the musical term alt or alto can be confusing because of the varying pronunciations. According to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), both spellings are pronounced as /æltəʊ/ or /æltoʊ/. The first syllable is pronounced like "al" in "pal", followed by the "t" or "o" sound depending on the spelling. Alt or alto refers to the second highest voice part in choral or instrumental music. Its range typically spans from F3 to F5, and can be sung by either male or female voices.
Alt or alto is a musical term used to describe a specific range of pitch in music. It refers to a vocal or instrumental part that falls in the middle range, between the lowest range (bass) and the highest range (soprano). Hence, alt or alto designates a register that is lower than soprano but higher than tenor or bass.
In choral music, the alto part usually corresponds to the second highest vocal range amongst the different voice types. It is commonly performed by female singers, although there are also male singers who may sing in the alto range. Altos often contribute to harmonization and provide a rich and full sound to the overall ensemble, adding depth and texture to the music.
In terms of musical instruments, the term "alto" can also refer to certain instruments that have a similar pitch range. For example, the alto saxophone is a member of the saxophone family and is pitched in the E♭ key. It produces a mellow and expressive sound that falls within the alto range. Similarly, the viola is often referred to as the alto instrument of the string family, being tuned a perfect fifth below the violin and having a deeper and darker tone.
Overall, alt or alto refers to the range of pitch in music that lies between bass and soprano or describes instruments that produce sounds in that range.
The highest note that can be sung with the natural voice by men.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.