When people think of the saxophone, they picture a smooth jazz musician playing in a smoky lounge. But the saxophone is a versatile wind instrument. You can use it in various genres, from rock to classical. It may seem daunting, but the saxophone is easy to learn. With a bit of practice and persistence, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a saxophonist. This article will cover the things you need to know about saxophone for beginners. There are many different varieties of saxophone, but the most common ones include:
Alto Sax
The alto saxophone has a single-reed mouthpiece cap that produces a good sound. It also has a small bore, which gives it a warmer, smoother tone than other saxophones. Plus, the alto has a high pitch, and its range is perfect for playing music. So if you’re looking for something easy to start with your sax learning journey, the alto saxophone may be ideal.
Tenor Sax
The tenor is one of the larger types of saxophones. It also comes with a more complex fingering system. So if you’re looking for a smaller size, you may want to consider other instruments.
Soprano Sax
The soprano saxophone is the smallest and highest-pitched member of the saxophone family. It is hard to play in tune, so you’ll need to grasp the proper embouchure technique. It is also prone to feedback issues, so you need to be careful when amplifying your instrument. Thus, the soprano sax is excellent for more advanced students.
What Saxophone Woodwind Instrument Should a Beginner Use?
If you’re a beginner on the saxophone, you might be wondering what kind of instrument you should get. There are a few things to weigh when making your decision, such as:
Music Style
If you’re interested in jazz, you might want to get alto or tenor saxophones. But if you’re more into rock or pop, get a baritone saxophone.
Budget Range
When choosing the best sax for your practice session, go for an affordable price. Saxophones can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. But the great news is that you can buy a used saxophone if you’re starting. Or you can rent one until you’re sure you like to buy a new instrument.
Physical Characteristics
If you have small hands, get a soprano saxophone. If you have large hands, go for a tenor saxophone. Whichever instrument you choose, make sure you get a comfortable one for you to play. The last thing you want is to get frustrated with your first saxophone.
What Should You Look for in an Alto Sax?
Consider the following factors in getting the best alto sax for you:
Size
Most people think that the only thing that matters is sound. But the truth is that the size of the instrument can have a significant impact on creating a great tone. Here are a few reasons why you should consider the size when making your choice:
- Tinier saxophones are easier to hold, especially for a young student.
- Big saxophones have a bigger sound, which can be important for certain types of music.
- Student alto saxophone size can also affect its tone and how easy it is to play in tune.
So when you’re looking at different models, don’t just focus on the sound. Make sure you try them out and see how they feel in your hands. The right size can make a big difference in your playing!
Weight
A heavier sax will stay in tune better and hold its shape longer over time. A lighter saxophone will be easier to carry if you’re an absolute beginner. But if you’re one of the professional musicians like Sonny Rollins, you’ll want a heavier one. Yet, the decision comes down to your personal preference.
Keys
One difference between alto saxes is that some have more keys than others. More keys mean more notes, which gives you a broader range to work with.
Tone Quality
Many people think that all saxophones sound the same, but that’s not true. Each type of sax has a consistently balanced sound. Some alto saxophones have a brighter, more penetrating sound. The others have a warmer, richer sound. Whatever your preference is, make sure to try out a beginner saxophone. That way, you’ll be sure to find a nice-sounding instrument for your needs.
What Should You Get as Your First Sax?
Here is the list of the starter instruments you could choose from:
- Yamaha YAS-280
- Yamaha YAS-26 with adjustable thumb rest
- Flanger F-980 with large bore
- Selmer SAS280 La Voix II in yellow brass body
- Jean-Paul USA AS-400 with cork grease
- Conn Selmer
- Nickel-Plated Mendini by Cecilio with a ribbed construction and gold lacquer finish
- Jupiter JAS1100SG with tilting Bb rocker arm
Of all other woodwind instruments, the saxophone is one of the most rewarding instruments to learn. With proper instruction and practice, you can play some fantastic tunes in no time.