There are many variables that affect the sound you will get from your saxophone. These include the saxophone itself, the mouthpiece, the reed, the ligature, your embouchure, your oral cavity, and the way you move air through your horn. We will talk more about sound production in other lessons, so for now we’ll just discuss some mouthpiece basics.

For a student starting out, it’s best to buy a quality mouthpiece (such as a JodyJazz HS* for tenor, or a Meyer for alto), and stick with that mouthpiece at least until the student has developed good embouchure habits. For starters, a simple ligature (such as a Rovner Dark) should be used. Once the embouchure and intonation is developed, and the student has a good feeling for the sound he or she wants, other mouthpieces (such as metal ones) can be tried.

I happen to use a Jody Jazz HR* on my tenor, alto, and soprano. I think they get a great warm, dark sound, and are fairly free-blowing. But I also like to use a Dave Guardala King if I’m doing an R&B or blues gig. The Guardala has a much louder, bright sound that cuts through the band, but is far too bright (for my liking) in more quiet settings.

The mouthpiece should be cleaned weekly, usually with just warm water and soap. Check with the manufacturer to make sure what method they prefer.

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