My First Mouthpiece

All the technical detail is a little overwhelming, and it may seem hard to know where to begin. Most of it will be useful when you’ve gained some more experience, however for the moment here are some straightforward tips to make starting out a little easier.

Mouthpiece. Most student saxophones are supplied with a very basic plastic mouthpiece, initially this is fine for getting the first squeak out of the sax, however as you develop as a player you’ll find it restricting.  One of the most common problems for beginners is struggling with tone and control. Simple solution, change your mouthpiece. By upgrading to a better mouthpiece you can instantly improve your tone, plus you will find it more free blowing, responsive and easier to control.

Reeds. It's best to start on soft grade (No1.5) and soon shift to something slightly harder (No2), this will help with your overall tone production. Rico Royal reeds are most highly recommended for beginners and slightly softer than the other leading brand, Vandoren.

Ligature. A better ligature such as the Rovner is easier to use and will improve your set up, helping to eliminate unwanted squeaks.

Mouthpiece patches. Finally, use a self-adhesive plastic or rubber mouthpiece patch to cut down on uncomfortable vibrations and protect your nice new mouthpiece.

The following mouthpieces and set-ups are my favourite suggestions for the beginner. They are suitable for alto or tenor:

1. Selmer S80 Ebonite, Rovner Ligature, Rico Royal No.2 Reeds, Mouthpiece Patch. This is one of my favourite set-ups for a total beginner, it is highly recommended by teachers. The S80 gives excellent control and confidence that a beginner needs, it certainly helps to curb those irritating squeaks one can experience at the start. It is relatively free blowing and offers a good all round sound. I find the Rovner ligature compliments the mouthpiece very well, adding a hint of richness. Rico Royal reeds are easy to play, making blowing and tone production a breeze! It is the ideal first mouthpiece to upgrade to with a leaning towards a classical tone.
Click here for prices & ordering

2. Otto Link Ebonite, Rovner Ligature, Rico Royal No.2 Reeds, Mouthpiece Patch.  For all students who want a slightly more jazzy and breathy sound this mouthpiece will certainly help you achieve that. Again like the S80, I have tried to make starting out as easy as possible. Although slightly more resistant, it is full, rich and dark in sound. The Rovner ligature, makes it a little more free blowing and is better for support. Again, Rico Royal No.2 reeds offer an easy all-round start for you.
Click here for prices & ordering

3. Yamaha Plastic, Rovner Light Ligature, Rico Royal No.2 Reeds, Mouthpiece Patch. Although made out of plastic it is great for control and response, and it has a surprisingly sweet and rounded tone for a plastic model. Of all the mouthpieces listed this is the least expensive, but produced to the usual high standards of Yamaha.
Click here for prices & ordering
 

If you do not have menu buttons on the left hand side of this page click here.