Soprano Saxophone
The soprano saxophone was invented in 1840 and is a woodwind instrument. What that means is that when you blow air against the mouthpiece, it causes the air to vibrate within a resonator. It has increased in popularity thanks to famous musicians such as Kenny G.
The soprano saxophone plays an octave higher than the more common tenor saxophone. It is pitched in the key of B? and is a transposing instrument. What is meant by transposing is that written notes are read at a pitch which is different from a concert pitch. For instance, when a B? soprano saxophone player plays a written C, it sounds like a concert B?.
More modern saxophones typically include additional keys, which add the notes of F? and G to the highest notes it can play. The soprano sax has been compared to the B? clarinet. However, the saxophone can play a louder and more penetrating sound when it hits the very high notes. The bore of the soprano sax is smaller than the others, causing it to be harder to make it hit the right tones. Experienced players use alternative fingerings or vary breath support, or change the position of their tongue to get the soprano saxophone to hit the correct notes. The soprano sax is sometimes used in place of an oboe.
Most soprano saxophones are straight like a rule, but some have slightly or fully curved neck and bells. However, even the fully curved soprano sax has a straighter crook than the others. Some players think that soprano saxophones with a curved neck have the impact of giving the instrument a warmer, less nasal tone. Mouthpieces are available in different designs, providing you the opportunity to get the tone you want.
If your child is considering the soprano sax, ask around to find out the school has a loaner program available. If not, ask your friends and family. At least try to find out if there’s someone in the band who will let your child use their saxophone long enough to figure out what brands he likes.
What do you do if you can’t find a saxophone to borrow or if your child simply must have his own? Review music stores, advertisements in the newspapers, and the internet to see if there are any used soprano saxophones you can purchase. In the long run, it’s better to invest some money in a quality saxophone than have to spend a lot of money on repairs.
You are also going to need reeds, a strong neck strap, and a music stand to go with your soprano sax. Beginners typically select the number “2” reed. After you’ve had some time to work on the mouth muscles, you can move on up to higher numbers on reeds. Along with your reed, you should get a good container to keep it in.
Visit neighborhood music stores or use the internet to get accessories for your saxophone. Remember that your saxophone provides people with an impression of you as an individual. Make a good impression by taking good care of your saxophone.