Welcome to the Saxophone
The saxophone is a single-reed instrument with a mouthpiece and reed just like the clarinet’s, only larger. There are actually 8 saxes in the saxophone family, all with the same fingering, but only the alto and tenor saxophone are considered “beginning” instruments.
Checklist of items needed:
Here is a checklist of typical items you will need to get ready to play! Each item indicated with an [*] is already included, at no charge, with your rental or purchase from Musical Innovations. You may also want to check with your music teacher for any additional items he or she suggests:
at least 5 reeds
* cork grease
* a mouthpiece cap
* an end plug
* a neck strap (you should never play without a strap!)
a neck swab
a mouthpiece brush
your band textbook
a cleaning swab
a music stand
All of these items are available through Musical Innovations!
Some things to remember:
Please keep your saxophone in its case when not in use. Always use the end plug provided, so the octave key does not get damaged in the case (your Maintenance Coverage will be void if the end plug is not used).
Please do not let anyone else play your saxophone.
After each time you play, clean the inside of your saxophone with your cleaning swab. Clean the neck separately, from the bottom up, with the neck swab. Then, wipe the outside with a soft, dry cloth.
Take the reed off the mouthpiece. Clean the mouthpiece with your mouthpiece brush and wipe dry. The reed must be kept in a reed case — it must not be left on the mouthpiece when the saxophone is in its case.
Use cork grease as needed. The neck cork should be slightly slippery.
Your instrument will need to have regular maintenance checkups to ensure it remains in proper playing condition. This should be done at least every six months to keep your warranty in effect. If you have our MRC, these checkups are free of charge.
Remember, practice is an essential part of playing an instrument. Practicing is actually “band homework,” and should be given the same importance as homework in any other academic subject. Give it your best, and you will be amazed how rapidly you progress!
Instruments belonging to Musical Innovations cannot be left overnight at school at any time.
To put your
saxophone together:
Always place the neck on the body first. Then, twist the mouthpiece on. Be very careful not to damage the octave key.
Use a slight twisting motion to assemble or take apart your saxophone.
Put the reed on last; just the very tip of the mouthpiece should show above the tip of the reed, and both the reed and the ligature screws should be centered. The top edge of the ligature should be 1/4” from the rim of the mouthpiece (many mouthpieces have a line to show you where the ligature should go).
You will need a new reed at least every two months, or when the reed is cracked or dirty. Keep 3-5 extras on hand at all times!
If this sounds confusing, just ask your teacher or someone at Musical Innovations to demonstrate. We are happy to help!
(864) 286-8742 or info@musicalinnovations.biz
If you have any questions or difficulties, please see your band director right away!
