Table of Contents
Why does my saxophone squeak when I play?
Saxophones squeak most typically due to an issue with the setup, such as the reed being misaligned or using low-quality equipment. Poor embouchure is also a major cause of squeaking, as biting too much or taking in too much mouthpiece are more prone to produce a sound in the upper register.
Why is my saxophone not playing notes?
If notes won’t play (or require a lot of air to play) it’s almost always due to an air leak. The leather pads located under the keys are supposed to seal the air from the tone holes, but if the pad doesn’t seal well the saxophonist will find themselves blowing harder or squeezing the key until it seals.
Why does my saxophone sound raspy?
A sizzling sound represents water on the back of the reed. A raspy sound comes from too much reed (mouthpiece) inside the mouth.
Why does my alto saxophone sound weird?
Shift the mouthpiece forward slightly so that it’s not covering too much of the reed. If your saxophone is making quiet, muffled sounds, place the mouthpiece further into your mouth. If it sounds like you’re not getting enough air into your saxophone, you probably aren’t; covering more of the reed will help.
How do I fix my airy saxophone sound?
Make sure that your top teeth and bottom teeth are aligned; neither set of teeth should be further forward on the mouthpiece than the other. Also, make sure that you take a deep breath from your diaphragm before playing. Air support is key to sounding good.
Why won’t my alto saxophone play low notes?
First off, your sax needs to be in good working order. This means that all the pads need to be sealing well. If they’re not, you need to visit a repair technician and have your horn looked at. So assuming that your instrument is in good shape, the key to getting low notes out is all about how you use your air.
How do I make my saxophone sound smoother?
On Saxophone Tone:
- Bottom lip position is important. Think the word “Victory”, or the letter “F” to see how much (or little) bottom lip is placed over the bottom teeth.
- “Hot air plays the Saxophone; Cool air plays the Flute.”
- Keep your throat open – same way as when you burp – and push the warm air through.