Saxophone accessories
Mouthpiece
Probably the most crucial accessory. From beginner to professional, having the right mouthpiece is essential if you want your Saxophone music to come out right. Each different playing style requires you to adopt a suitable mouthpiece for the Saxophone.
Though the differences between the Soprano and Baritone Sax mouthpieces might not be obvious, they are apparent when attached to the Saxophone. You can reach higher notes using a Soprano mouthpiece and lower notes using a Baritone.
Choosing Saxophone mouthpieces should be based on your personal experience. There is no perfect choice that will be true for all players. Some favour a particular type of mouthpiece, different thickness, manufacturing material or even age. Try several and see which one feels most comfortable for you.
Most beginner and intermediate saxophones come with mouthpieces included, whilst most professional saxophones leave the choice of the mouthpiece to the player.
Though the differences between the Soprano and Baritone Sax mouthpieces might not be obvious, they are apparent when attached to the Saxophone. You can reach higher notes using a Soprano mouthpiece and lower notes using a Baritone.
Choosing Saxophone mouthpieces should be based on your personal experience. There is no perfect choice that will be true for all players. Some favour a particular type of mouthpiece, different thickness, manufacturing material or even age. Try several and see which one feels most comfortable for you.
Most beginner and intermediate saxophones come with mouthpieces included, whilst most professional saxophones leave the choice of the mouthpiece to the player.
Reeds
Always have a few spare reeds in your case. Cane is the typical and traditional material for making reeds; however, it can be coated or made of synthetic materials.
Saxophone reeds vary by size of Saxophone and come in various strengths. A numbering system ranges from 1 to 5 and uses half numbers to help evaluate the hardness. The higher the number, the harder the reed. The goal of any saxophonist is to play the hardest reed they can handle, as the sound improves with each increment.
Saxophone reeds vary by size of Saxophone and come in various strengths. A numbering system ranges from 1 to 5 and uses half numbers to help evaluate the hardness. The higher the number, the harder the reed. The goal of any saxophonist is to play the hardest reed they can handle, as the sound improves with each increment.
Ligature & cap
Like your Reed choice, ligatures are an accessory of personal preference, from metal, leather & metal, carbon fibre, plastic, rubber and even boot-lace construction. The type and material used to make the ligature can impact the functioning of the reed.
Caps are made of hard impact-resistant plastic or metal; their job is to cover the mouthpiece, ligature and reed to protect them from damage. Most beginner and intermediate saxophones come with ligature and cap included, whilst most professional saxophones leave the choice of these to the player.
Caps are made of hard impact-resistant plastic or metal; their job is to cover the mouthpiece, ligature and reed to protect them from damage. Most beginner and intermediate saxophones come with ligature and cap included, whilst most professional saxophones leave the choice of these to the player.
Harness / Neck strap / Sling
People who play heavy instruments such as Saxophones can suffer back and neck injuries if the instrument's weight is not supported correctly. A good quality Saxophone sling/harness will help you play the Saxophone comfortably, provide neck support and avoid injuries. Slings are often made with a certain amount of stretch. They should also be completely adjustable to get the best possible fit.
Cleaning materials
Like all musical instruments, proper care is required to improve the saxophone’s playing performance and lifespan. The primary materials required are as follows: -
- Cork grease to ensure the mouthpiece attaches easily but firmly to the neck
- Key oil ensures all keys play smoothly and are swift and responsive.
- Neck & Body Swab/Cloth passed through the neck and body of the saxophone to clean any buildup of moisture inside the instrument to prevent damage to the saxophone pads and keys.
Case
Saxophone instrument cases serve as essential protection and covering for Saxophones during transportation and storage. Some cases protect from weather changes or environments that may be hazardous to the instrument. Usually, purchased Saxophones come with factory cases manufactured or distributed by the Saxophone company. Some companies offer travelling cases that are lightweight, durable, and economically efficient. This especially matters when travelling with larger Saxophones. Hard cases are always recommended.
Music stand
Saxophone stands come in various styles depending on the needs of the saxophonist. Most feature padding to protect the saxophone parts that will rest against the stand. In addition, most are adjustable, making them comfortable in both sitting and standing positions and also collapsible, making them easily portable.
Metronome
Using a metronome during your practice sessions is essential, significantly as a learner, to help you keep time and generate a regular tempo for the tune you’re playing. It can help you develop better playing technique and feel for time when used appropriately.