What is the key to playing on a 3.5 alto sax reed?!!?

Question

i cant get used to it. it takes a lot of air support and the notes sound fuzzy and not in tune. what am i doing wrong. my teacher says i have to play on it for my own good. is there a way to get better on it because eventually ill have to go to a 4?!!

Answer 1

The harder the reed the more practice is required for stamina.. I know guys who play on a 4

Answer 2

You really need to talk to your teacher, or even better, get a new one. This is the most awful advice I've ever heard of a teacher giving. Playing on a harder reed is of no benefit if your tone and pitch are going out the window. Go down a size and if your teacher doesn't like it, get a new teacher. There is no reason to play on a hard reed, especially as your mouthpiece may not assist in vibrating a hard reed. Reed strength has nothing to do with how good of a player you are. Reed strength is made to match the facing (space between the reed tip and mouthpiece tip) of the mouthpiece. A large facing will allow a softer reed to vibrate better, and a hard reed will not work well if at all. A small facing will allow a hard reed to vibrate, and if you go to soft, it won't work well or at all. You've been asking questions like this for a while, I think it is time to get the hint and stop trying to use harder reeds and talk to your teacher about the really bad advice.

Answer 3

Keep playing, and play LOUD.  You're building an embrochure.  It's kind of like lifting weights, it's not supposed to be easy.

When you actually have to do a concert or parade or something, drop down to a 2 1/2 or 2 reed.  It will feel good and sound great.