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Question: Any tips for an amateur saxophonist!?
Well, I just picked up the tenor saxophone for the school band!. I can already read notes and know all about theory, but the part I need some advice on is actually playing it!. I usually play string instruments, so it's a bit of a change to go over to wind instruments (is saxophone wind or brass!?)!.
Anyways, I was just wondering if anyone had some good saxophone tips to start me off!. Specifically, I wanted to know how to form your lips when playing, because when I blow into it, the sound keeps changing and I can never get a steady sound out of it!. I always check my fingering (which I know I'll memorize in time) before I play a note, so that I'm not holding anything else down, but the sound sometimes comes out really high-pitched and squeaky!.!.!.
So, that's basically the gist of it!. Again, any guidelines I can follow or tips I can use would be very helpful!. Thanks!.
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Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:
The way your mouth is formed around the mouthpiece is crucial to developing a good sound!. It is called your 'embouchure' (om-bush-err)!.
You should rest your top teeth on top of the mouthpiece, but don't bite down too hard!. Then fold your bottom lip over your bottom teeth and rest the reed there!. Try to hold your lips steady, it might be tough to start with, but in time you will get stronger!. You shouldn't puff out your cheeks when you blow!.
If you still get squeaks, try changing your reed, or moving it up the mouthpiece slightly!. Www@QuestionHome@Com
Ive been playing saxophone for 7 years from 4th grade and im now in 11th!. When you fom your lips u dont want ur cheeks to be puffed out!. also you should make your teeth bite down on the top of the mouthpiece!. Basically just practice a lot and ur sound will get better!. Practice a lot of scales so ur fingers get faster!. scales are like the alphabet of music!. If ur having trouble playing something play it slow at first and then gradually play faster!. Dont rush it!. It takes time Practice makes perfectWww@QuestionHome@Com