How is the B-flat bass saxophone transposed to concert pitch?

The B-flat bass saxophone is considered a transposing instrument, which means that the written notes do not sound at the same pitch when played. Specifically, the B-flat bass saxophone is pitched a major ninth lower than concert pitch. This means when the saxophonist plays a written C, it sounds as a B-flat two octaves plus a whole step lower than concert pitch. Therefore, to bring the music written for the B-flat bass saxophone into concert pitch, you transpose it down two octaves and up a whole step. This is why the choice indicating two octaves plus a whole step lower is the correct answer. Understanding this transposition is crucial for musicians who work with various instrumental combinations, ensuring they are in the right key for performances and compositions.