fatpies
World Chat Champion
Joined: 01 Mar 2011
Karma :  
|
 Posted: 07:48 - 07 Oct 2013  Post subject: Alto Sax |
 |
|
Anybody play?
I saw one in a second hand-shop and handed over some money (yes it is probably filled with hobo spit). I already play piano and fancied a change. Can't afford a teacher (most want £35h if you pay 10 lessons up front).
What embouchure do you use? I haven't figured out which suits me best, no embouchure pouted bottom lip seems ok, curled bottom lip over teeth seems smoother and quieter but muted.
Any books you would recommend or websites? Seems straight forward except for breathing and blowing technique as it is a melody only instrument.
I currently use a 2 Rico reed, and still get a lot of squeaks.
Lasty ear plugs? It sounds pretty loud! Which is problematic as unlike my digital pianos I can't use headphones and next door complains. 
Thanks
____________________
"It's easy to attack and destroy an act of creation. It's a lot more difficult to perform one" |
|
Suntan Sid
World Chat Champion
Joined: 07 May 2009
Karma : 
|
Posted: 10:11 - 07 Oct 2013  Post subject: Re: Alto Sax |
|
|
| fatpies wrote: | Anybody play?
I saw one in a second hand-shop and handed over some money (yes it is probably filled with hobo spit). I already play piano and fancied a change. Can't afford a teacher (most want £35h if you pay 10 lessons up front).
What embouchure do you use? I haven't figured out which suits me best, no embouchure pouted bottom lip seems ok, curled bottom lip over teeth seems smoother and quieter but muted.
Any books you would recommend or websites? Seems straight forward except for breathing and blowing technique as it is a melody only instrument.
I currently use a 2 Rico reed, and still get a lot of squeaks.
Lasty ear plugs? It sounds pretty loud! Which is problematic as unlike my digital pianos I can't use headphones and next door complains.
Thanks |
I was a trumpet player in my yoof so can't give you specifics, however you can quieten things down a bit with a mute:-
https://www.sax.co.uk/acatalog/Sax_mutes.html
Alternatively, do what my dad does and practice in your shed! 
As far as what sound you want, as with everything musical, practice, practice and practice, when you're pissed of with that, practice some more.
The muscles in your lips aren't strong enough, at the moment, to produce the best sound, for any length of time, you need to build up your embochure first.
My dad plays trumpet and sax, he does specific breathing exercises, instrument free, as it were!
____________________
"Everybody needs money, that's why they call it money!"  |
|
Help & FAQs
Search BCF
Members
Groups
Events Calendar
rating
rating