Figure 2.31

The Neutral Clef

Since Alto and Tenor Clefs have been retained in common usage, it is necessary to
learn to read these with some facility. When first encountered, this can be a
daunting task. Some say that familiarization and memorization is the only method
for learning these clefs. There are expedient shortcuts however, that may help to
facilitate the process:

1. For Alto Clef:

a. Think of the note name in Treble Clef and “read” this one line or

space

higher

.

b. This is only the pitch-class name. The actual pitch is an octave

lower. See example.

Figure 2.32

Alto Clef Shortcut

2. For Tenor Clef:

a. Think of the note name in Treble Clef and “read” this one line or

space

lower

.

b. Again this is only the pitch-class name. The actual pitch is an

octave lower. See example.

Figure 2.33

Tenor Clef Shortcut

Chapter 2 The Elements of Pitch:Sound, Symbol, and Tone

2.6 Moveable C-Clef; Other Clefs

83