Klarinet Archive - Posting 000411.txt from 2005/11

From: Bill Hausmann <bhausmann1@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] sax
Date: Tue, 29 Nov 2005 08:37:05 -0500

At 08:42 AM 11/29/2005 -0500, Rob wrote:
>Can anyone tell me whats the difference between tenor and alto saxophones
>and which would be better to start out on to learn sax and why?
>Rob

The alto sax is pitched in Eb. The tenor is pitched in Bb below
it. Otherwise, they read exactly the same way, since they are both
transposing instruments, and finger exactly the same. Altos are smaller
and cheaper, but tenors, being in the same key as clarinets, may offer the
clarinetist uncomfortable with sharps an easier time. The mouthpiece and
reeds on the tenor are MUCH larger, of course, and the embouchure a little
looser, but generally, if you can play one, you can play the other with
almost no extra effort. But keep in mind it has been said that the tenor
is the "odd duck" of the sax family, and it is harder to arrive at your
"sound" on tenor than any other size sax. That has been true in my case,
but with all the tenor I have been playing lately I have found it at
last! Saxes in general are VERY flexible in terms of the tone quality you
can produce, and tenor more so that the others. Just listen to some
Coleman Hawkins, and then some Lester Young for a sample of the variety
available.

Bill Hausmann

If you have to mic a saxophone, the rest of the band is TOO LOUD!

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