I am switching instruments to saxaphone, any advice?

Question

What type is the best for a beginner? Tenor or Alto?

And are there any particular method books that might help me in addition to a tutor?

Answer 1

I hear they are all the same difficulty just different sound...

Answer 2

Well, there are a couple things to consider...

What instrument are you coming from?  If you played oboe or trumpet, an alto may be easier because it requires a tighter embochure (tongue, lip, and throat position).  If you're coming from something like tuba, tenor may be better, as the embochure is a little more relaxed.  Obviously, if you didn't play a wind instrument you will have to learn the embochure, so it puts you at ground zero for either.

Tenor sax is a little bigger, but still managable... however, the keys are spread farther than on alto, and you may have trouble reaching the keys well if you have small hands.  I play bari, but my hands are so small that I can't spread my fingers far enough to play a tenor well (I can do it, but boy is it sloppy! lol).  

As far as air goes, to play with good technique and support, they both take about the same amount of air- so no problem there!  

It comes down to your personal prefference with sound and such.  Also, as you get older, if you go into jazz band, the roles are a little different- the alto plays the lead, and sets the style for the ENTIRE band.  The tenor adds harmonies and generally gets more solos... which do you want to do?

As for books:  

For an absolute beginner, try the "Essential Elements 2000 for Sax" (it comes in either alto or tenor) published by the Hal Leonard Corp... sometimes it comes with a dvd too.  Although, if you know how to read music some of this may be a little beneath you, but it will teach you the fingerings and a little technique, and is a great book.

"Foundation Studies for Saxophone" by David Hite is a good one.  It is a little advanced, but take it slow and you will get a lot out of it.  It will work for years of study, and as long as you are willing to push yourself, it will help you do that.

Hope this was helpful- have fun with your sax, which ever one you choose!  :)

Answer 3

Alto is usually the beginner saxophone, but my friend says that the tenor is easier.  Try both and see which one is easier for you.  I don't know of any particular book that could help you though.

Answer 4

Don't do the saxaphone, it's weird

Answer 5

Alto is freakiin cool. I'm in band too. And Yamaha books are really good.

Answer 6

I am barely 11 years old, but I am playing the alto saxophone at a high school level, my teacher tells me. Alto is defintely the best for beginners. Are you taking private or public lessons? I just have 1 important tip for you: BUY A LOT OF REEDS!! He he. I assume you already know how to read music, so ask your music teacher to make you a chart of notes and fingerings.