While playing a saxophone, the mouthpiece should not be taken more than halfway into the player’s mouth. During this the lower lip gets support from lower teeth which in turn makes contact with the reed. Let your upper teeth rest lightly on the mouthpiece to hold it more firmly in place. In order to make it air-tight, upper lip should be completely closed.

Generally, the quality of the sound of the saxophone will depend on three things. One is on the air that you blow into it, which should directly come from the diaphragm. Second – on the vibration of the reed. And last is on the position of the tongue in the mouth. This provides the much needed focus to the player when playing the instrument.

One key element for efficient and successful practicing is the concentration. To master the saxophone it is important to be able to focus your mind. Short practice sessions are infinitely more productive when you can devote your whole attention to the workings of your tongue and fingers. It is definitely much easier for anybody to maintain concentration for shorter periods of time rather than for longer periods. You end up learning more in just a short period of time.

If you are serious to learn playing the saxophone, then you should practice for at least one hour daily while to become a professional 2-3 hours per day is what you will have to spend on your practice. As learning any musical instrument is an art requiring considerable practice and focus, the dedication to learn must remain vibrant even when it seems to be monotonous and boring. Most of the students of Saxophone start with an objective of playing it like the pro but the initial learning saxophone lessons can be really tough and challenging to any novice. It will be better to schedule your practice on those times when your level of concentration is higher.

How you divide your practice sessions will play a large part in eliminating the boredom that comes naturally with repetitive practicing. Avoid playing the same tone the entire practice time. Divide your practice sessions instead, to 3 main parts – the tone, the music and technical facility. The long notes demand the most concentration, being the hardest notes to practice. If you can focus on this tone and don’t let your mind wander here and there, then you can get the most out of it. It is advisable to practice the long notes in the beginning of the sessions while your mind is still fresh and not yet tired.

If you make a mistake when practicing, it is important for you to know the reason behind that mistake. Knowing what made you commit the mistake will make it easier for you to correct it. Always try to set a limit of your practice session and then try to stay in those limits. You should always bring a pencil to rehearsal, and use it to remind yourself of your problems and their solutions.

Try concentrating with your eyes closed as this helps you concentrate more. Do not be too busy for practice. Always make time for it. People can sometimes be forgetful. Consider writing down important ideas and items during practice. They will serve you well in times when you have to remember the things that you have learned and make mastering this instrument a lot easier.

 

 

Sax Master

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