SaxophoneTip Sheet

Welcome to the wonderful world of saxophone playing! Below are some tips to help you on your musical journey.

Tip 1: How to put the reed on the saxophone

The reed is how the saxophone makes sound, so it is important that the reed is in good shape! Make sure you don’t crack, split, or break your reed. If your reed is starting to break down, it is time to use another one.

To use the reed:

  1. Soak the reed in your mouth. (Remember, be careful not to break it!) Soak both the thin and thicker part of the reed.
  2. Attach the mouthpiece to the neck (see below) before you put the reed on the mouthpiece. Make sure to grease the cork on the neck to make it easier.
  3. Put the reed on the mouthpiece, thin part facing up. Line up the thin edge of the reed with the top of the mouthpiece.
  4. Put the ligature on the mouthpiece and reed. If the ligature is metal, the screws will be on the reed side facing right. If the ligature is leather, the screw will be on the non-reed side of the mouthpiece, facing right.

Tip 2: How to put together the saxophone

  1. Put the neck strap around your neck and tighten the strap so that the hook comes to your upper chest. You may have to adjust it when you put the saxophone on.
  2. Unscrew the screw at the top of the body and attach the neck. Once the neck is in a properly adjusted, tighten the screw.
  3. Hook on the neck strap on the back of the saxophone.
  4. Adjust the strap so that the mouthpiece reaches your mouth when your back is straight. The saxophone should fall to the right side.

Tip 3: Making the embouchure

  1. Make sure the reed is still wet before playing.
  2. Put your bottom lip over your bottom teeth to create a cushion for your reed. Rest the reed-side of your mouthpiece on your bottom lip.
  3. Close your mouth around the mouthpiece
  4. Don’t bight down too hard, and make sure the corners of your mouth are tighter and the middle is looser.
  5. Blow with strong air to make a sound. Make sure to keep your cheeks in!

Tip 4: Tonguing and breath support

Start each note by saying “ti” with your tongue touching the reed. This will make sure each note has a clear start.

Make sure you blow out with firm air. Take relaxed breaths in, expanding your lungs down and out. When you blow out, you will want to use your abdominal muscles to support a strong breath.

Tip 5: Practice, practice, practice…

Practice! The more work you put into your instrument, the more you get out of it!