When the alto clef is indicated, the lines and spaces represent the following notes: Tenor Clef The alto clef is represented by the following symbol: Many do not learn this clef, as it is primarily only used for the viola, the viola da gamba, the alto trombone, and the mandola. The alto clef’s center is placed on directly in the middle of the staff, designating the third line from the bottom to middle C. The alto clef is one of many “ C clefs” and is named as such because it’s center indicates middle C. Let’s review what we’ve just talked about. Stick around after the video for a review and some free printables! Before you watch, if you need a refresher on what “clefs” are in music, click here for our complete guide to all musical clefs.

We covered these clefs in a short video below. Though less commonly used, you might see them pop up from time to time in your sheet music.

In this post, we’re going to talk about alto and tenor clefs. These are the two most common clefs, but they’re not the only clefs. Most musicians start off learning treble clef, closely followed by bass clef.

Order of flats alto clef