Thanks for providing the videos. I'm getting back into playing music again after 30 years, and whilst I am able to read music from the other instruments I've played, I've always wanted to play the sax.....so, I bought one and here I am. Again, thanks for providing the informational videos.
I definitely needed tip #10, got an alto sax about a week ago, have been playing it everyday and never cleaned it, even got a light cold and I think that's the reason, thanks for saving me from my laziness :)
Just came upon you and your videos, watched a bunch now - I like your ''saxie'' way of talking sax so much, that when you asked for a like thumb, I logged into this site for the first time in around five years. Just re-learning my Tenor after a thirty year gap... [thanks for the Madness bits - I have just been playing - practising my growling]
Thank you for this! I found my articulation and tonguing really improved as I couldn’t get a handle on it when I played around a bit with the recorder!
Great video. I have been playing saxophone for about 6 years now. And for all the beginners out there i just want to say: Keep on practising and you will make some serious progress. It is really the key.
i came here to watch this for my wife who's learning sax, and I saw that trumpet lamp and thought "WTF who dared??!?!" Yep, trumpet player. But I noticed the trumpet appears to be giving it's creator and anyone who uses it the middle finger...bravo trumpet!!!
hey ,if anyone else wants to uncover learn to play the saxophone try Vaxicorn Simple Saxophone Guide (should be on google have a look ) ? Ive heard some interesting things about it and my co-worker got cool success with it.
Maybe it's a cheap or totally non-functional instrument. I could see thst, and it would be a waste to NOT use it for a lamp in that case...horns aren't cheap. I don't think you'd use one like this if it were very valuable.
I know most of these I'm transitioning from clarinet (which I've played for almost four years) to saxophone for jazz band So I already know about reeds and ligatures and breathing The only new facts for me was the Bb thing and the setting it down Possibly a video from transitioning from clarinet or flute (what my friend plays who also has to switch to saxophone for jazz band) to saxophone
Brinley John what a gorgeous comment. Thanks Brinley. I'll remember this one! Sometimes I get a bit disheartened with these videos as they are very time consuming. Lovely people like you motivate me to continue. Cxx
Thanks for taking the time Chez. Im a working musician in Dublin, Ireland. I play lead guitar, Drums, Bass and Keys (not at the same time :) ) One thing that really bugs me is playing the ska set on keys. (my main gig right now is a keys player). So.... i ordered a new shiny tenor sax. I played Alto years ago but always wanted a tenor. Hopefully will be playing the ska on a more authentic instrument for it by next week. Loving the tips, they are incredibly helpful. Best of Luck, Stephen.
Fabulous! Good for you babe. You can never have too many instruments ;-) And ska is perfect on tenor. Sorry it;s taken so long to respond. How have you been getting on with it? Cxx
Chez Taylor - Saxophone no probs its a crazy time of year. Yeah getting there with it. I need to work on my embouchure though. Muscles arent holding up for long enough and I get tired trying to keep it right. But working on it :)
My excitement brought me here. Very informative. I just bought a saxophone and arriving this week and I can start on my lessons locally. I can't wait to start.
I am by all means an amateur ive loved jazz and the sax for most of my life and final got around the courage to actually buy one i live in a country where there isn't actual any professional training for this sort of music (i live in Iraq btw) and im glad i found your channel it is incredibly helpful to someone how kinda has no idea what he is doing so thank you.
Learned on the altogether and switched to the Tenor and just couldn't get the same tongueing nor reed control. Just plain hated my teacher and finally just gave it up after middle school.
Great job, Chez! Maybe you should have put item #10 at the beginning !? yuch... I also suggest trying to keep your saliva "clean" , meaning, don't eat or drink in between songs, unless you also rinse out your mouth! Sugars in the saliva is the MAIN cause of sticky pads.
Thanks for highlighting the 10 errors. My question is about the ligature, how tight should they be tighten..very tight? With 2 screws, how tight should they be?
Good question! Depends on the ligature a bit - soft (leather) ones can be tighter as they absorb the vibrations. Ligs like vandoren optimum only have a few pressure points in order to allow the reed to vibrate more freely so, again, you have a bit more wriggle room to tighten slightly more. With generic metal ligs, I would try not to tighten too much and squeeze the reed to death as this will effect how it vibrates and encourage squeaks. You may find these videos useful; ruclips.net/video/_FM_AuHcvWY/видео.html ruclips.net/video/4RdJJ_l2AsM/видео.html
Breathing...I always use my ears :-) but nose, isn't that how you do circular breathing? Cleaning, any gear you like best, do you use anything on your mouthpiece? Like Theo Wanne cleaning kit? Internal of sax body? I have silk now but feel like it isn't always doing a great job. Thoughts on a beginner using a Legere reed instead?
Hey buddy. I quite like pad savers for the body of the sax but only if you play regularly as they otherwise just harbour the moisture and develop bacteria. ie it needs to be taken out to properly dry off regularly. For the mouthpiece, so long as it's wiped out and dried each practice I very rarely do anything else. Occasionally I may give it a clean with just warm water or even a very gentle baby shampoo but literally once I year will I do that! I do like ligere reeds and think you should definitely give them a try! Cx
Yep, lots of alternative fingerings out there depending on the tune or circumstance. You may find this video useful honey; ruclips.net/video/P2K0vlo9IRk/видео.html
I think if you're going to discuss things like toungeing, maybe explain what that is for those who haven't even GOT the thing from eBay yet...grabbed a gorgeous used Yamaha YAS 23, I'm sure will be a showcase in my collection. For newbies, they're all a good 19 to 39 years old, made from 1980 to 2010 or so. Student horns, so not very often in extremely clean shape. But solid gear if you find a nice one that was completely babied. Not gaspingly expensive if you know what you want, you ask the guy for a fair offer, and you avoid Music Go Round (very overpriced)
weird, in band I started with a 2, (Reed) and after a couple months I went up to a 2 1/2. Might switch to a 3, maybe. I just think when you have a stronger reed you sound so much better.
Not necessarily. I think you develop good strength when you use a harder reed and a better understanding of intonation. Definitely move up to the 3 and try it. You may find this is a perfect fit for you. Everyone is different. Cx
Very useful as usual :) - got me thinking about some different B flat fingerings for some songs and scales. Not sure if you have already, but could you do a video where you show very clearly what your preferred front fingering is for high f#? Would be much appreciated!
James William hi there James. Have you watched this one? ruclips.net/video/2MDwg8ntjzE/видео.html I prefer front F with the fork F# in right hand. Does that make sense? Thanks for getting in touch. Lovely to hear from you. Xxx
Yes I've watched your set up videos. The Namm show is in America and it showcases tones of instruments. So you could go and play as many saxophones as you wanted. There are also guests so you could meet for example Mindi Abair. The sax.co.uk guys have been to them before. For your ear candy channel are you improvising on those tracks? I think I asked if you could play the Bugsy Malone theme I can't remember. I've said this time and time before but you truly are a fantastic saxophonist I think you could play any genre any song you wanted. Again sorry for asking but when is the vibrato saxophone coming back?
celticfan0 hey buddy! That sounds fun. Next time I'm in America I'll definitely look it up. I'm sorry I've not got round to the bugsy malone tune. I've played that musical a few times. It's a great one! I particularly enjoy the sax solo in I'm Feeling Fine. There are some awesome sax moments in Hot Mikado if you've not come across that musical you should def check it out! Re: the vibrato, it's a laugh but I se it more as a toy & bit of fun rather than my regular horn. It's tricky to tune & the tone is very....hmmm....plastic! I promise I'll get it out before the year is out. If nothing else, it's great fun for Christmas tunes. Thanks for your ongoing support of the channel. Cx
Good day. I am a beginning alto sax player. How long do you suggest I learn and practice before a lesson with you? Should I learn all the notes on the alto before? So far I know: A B Bb C C# D Eb E F F# G; and their higher octaves. Thank you, Marco
Sorry I'm so slow to respond to this. Hope you've made a start on the instrument now and are finding your feet. You may want to watch either of these playlists for some guidance in your practice; ruclips.net/video/RNmZ8sC9fls/видео.html ruclips.net/video/cDqdlxfDdJk/видео.html
I expect so. Maybe spend some time in front of the mirror to check your embouchure shape. Have you watched this video? ruclips.net/video/99IRSTx1wW0/видео.html&lc=z223ztoyjmv0ifcad04t1aokgqlcxkkfsx2kl2xx2r3jrk0h00410 Might be helpful for you honey. Cx
Chez darling when I go to play the G scale I hold all six fingers down which is the D but when I hold the octave key down it does not work. I hold the bottom three keys down and then to octave key works but when I hold the top three notes down which is a G the octave key does not work I hold the octave key by itself and it works but when I hold all six fingers down it does not work. I want to be able to play high notes on the sax as well as low notes and I can almost play all the way through " ain't no sunshine" by bill withers but I am mixed up with the second part is it aaceded. Most important is the octave key I will learn the song over time but I was wondering why the octave key does not work when all six fingers are pressing down. Thanks and I love your sound on the sax so relaxing
Sounds like you're either struggling with register control or that there is an actual issue with the sax mechanisms itself. Hopefully these may help either way!; ruclips.net/video/hunaVH4UNlE/видео.html ruclips.net/video/hpaVzFj4zWA/видео.html
Chez what about when nothing I do is working out I mean I changed the reeds twice and I still can't seem to get a nice sound it gets frustrating so I clean out the sax just like before I put it away and then continue practicing and still nothing no matter what I blow harder and harder and still not hitting the sound I want I almost want to take the mouthpiece and throw it against the wall but it cost $40.00 bucks and I had to by two the first one was an alto sax I could not return it so I had to buy a tenor sax mouthpiece. It get me so mad how come nothing seem to work?
Pete Weiss sorry to hear you're still experiencing the same frustrations. Do you have a tutor? Have you asked their advice? It's tricky for me to comment or advise without actually seeing the issue.... Stay calm! 😉🙃
Chez I think I am stuck at what I know I can't seem to go further I mean I just blow the notes try and read music but it just does not seem to work but I did buy a brand new reed it is a legere reed 2.5 and that seems to help with the sound a lot and now my notes are not so wavy or scratchy but I am trying to learn a few songs from a music book a tenor sax music book but it seems like I am not moving ahead just because it seems like the notes are not the same when I hear the original song
Pete Weiss if I'm honest Pete, it sounds like you could do with some tuition to help you out. Do you have a local tutor you could try? Or I do offer Skype lessons if you're interested. Warmest, chez
Olivia Costa Good news, flute fingerings are very similar to sax fingerings. Your embochure or mouth shape I think will be super different. However, the learning curve shouldnt be too difficult since you've played flute. I don't have any personal experience with flute, but other students at my school make switches from flute to sax without too much difficulty.
Chez can I improvise jazz song from beginning to end example with g blues scale if cover music is piano in f scale?(tenor sax) Thank you for answer. I like you and yours playing sax very mouch, Have nice day.
vojko hey buddy! Thanks for getting in touch. Firstly, here's a couple of videos you might find handy; ruclips.net/video/U0kcOfLZqM4/видео.html ruclips.net/video/oBLnZ-Gr-1A/видео.html So in short, yes, tenor sax would be a tone up. You've sussed it! Only snag is, which jazz song! A tune which follows Common blues chord progression would suit one blues or minor pentatonic scale throughout. However, more complex jazz tunes may require chord changes whereby you switch scale to match the chords. I've yet to do a tutorial on this yet? Would you find that useful? Cx
txt Chez, If I uderstand you I can improvise with my tenor sax all song with G blues scale (g,Bb,c,c#,d,f) if cover music (piano) play blues in F. Is this OK?Have nice day.
I would love to hear you play Gato Barbieri - Europa. Maybe the sexiest and most sensual saxophone piece ever played. My goal is to play this on my new sax in the not too distant future. Only one problem; I've never attempted to play any musical instrument in my life.
Ive played horn for 6 years now, and my brother is majoring in sax performance. I want to get really good and surprise him! Haha, do you know any way in particular to improve quickly/quicker for those with past music experience? Thanks!
Ha ha! You're after a get rich quick scheme...? Unfortunately there isn't such thing really. I'm still constantly improving. Occasionally I watch a video I made from last year & cringe at how awful the playing is! You change and improve over time and there isn't a crash course really I'm afraid. Keep at it and practice hard. The more hours you put in the more you'll improve! xxx
Chez Taylor - Saxophone Aw man haha. I suppose youre right. Im still going to be better than my brother one day ! :] And i can relate to my horn playing, im always improving and it takes time. Thank you!
My saxophones low notes come out really weird. Like kind of gunshoty I guess. If you know what I mean. Sometimes they don't even come out. My low notes come out like high notes. It's really disappointing
Hmm...sounds like your bottom notes are splitting; ruclips.net/video/hunaVH4UNlE/видео.html. ruclips.net/video/qPKDRee2Ne4/видео.html Or perhaps squeaking? ruclips.net/video/zJKBxBb4MkY/видео.html Or you may be biting down on the reed so that it closes up and the air can't pass through. If you continue to struggle after watching these suggested videos you may want to consider a one on one skype lesson as it's difficult for me to help without hearing the issue. Warmest Chez x
Hi chez, can you give me some advice as to witch mic is good to use on a saxophone,I E wireless not wired, i need to get one soon, any advice would be appreciated, thank you..
I actually rarely get flute gigs so don't practice it enough sadly. Think there are a couple of things of me playing online, let me see what I can dig out for you;
I’m an adult beginner at age 31 and I have my first lesson for tenor sax tomorrow and it comes with a #2 Rico Orange Box reed. Are those reeds good for adult beginners? They are the cheapest reeds out there and are they good at developing your embouchure?
Chez Taylor - Saxophone I was able to do an entire C scale on my first day in my teacher tells me that I have a lot of talent and that’s very nice of her to do so on my first day. I’m now on to Rico Orange Box #2.5 and I’m already on eighth notes. Have you had any students that were able to get a C scale out on their first day with no prior prior woodwind experience?
Phillip good work! Sounds like it’s going swimmingly! Everyone’s different and faces different challenges at the beginning. Some find time production easy but finger work, coordination &/or reading music very tricky. I hope you continue to enjoy it. Let me know how you get on. Cx
At times, my teacher notices that I can get throaty on certain notes but I just start using my diaphragm. I had A LOT of difficultly on the low Bb and she told me to lift my eyebrows and now I’m able to get it out. She also told me that I should do it in front of a mirror or buy a little mirror right next to the music that I’m playing on my music stand.What would you suggest to help me stop being so throaty?
I can't schedule when I practise much because my brother hates it, (not my playing, just the instrument in general) I just have to play when he's not in
Oh no! Hun that's tough. You should just be assertive and play when you want to play! Or maybe you could keep your sax on a stand so that you always have it ready for occasion when he's not in. Then you can quickly pick it up and get going. They have cheap ones on amazon. Cx
Hey chez! Great video so I’ve been playing sax for about a month now and I’ve been setting the horn down with all of the keys facing up. I don’t want to spend a lot of money buying like a stand and stuff, but I really don’t want to break or bend anything. So if I’m wrong, may you please correct me? Thanks in advance
It seems insane to risk an expensive instrument for a 25.00 stand, lol :) Buy. The. Stand. Trust me. and be smart and stick it in the corner, AWAY from kids or pets. jmo.
Hi Chez! Loving your videos, they are so helpful as I'm a complete beginner. I have a question though, when I play the top 2 key on the left hand and then press the octave key, it automatically jumps an octave. Happy days! But when I want to play something like a D and then press the octave key, nothing happens, I've tried my mouth in all sorts of different positions, but to no avail, I can get the higher octave if I blow differently, but I suppose that defeats the purpose of the octave key, please help! I've seen other people have the same problem, so hopefully its me and not something wrong with the sax. Keep up the good work :)
It may well be the 2nd 8ve key isn;t lifting as it should - either sticky (easy fix) or damaged/misaligned (not so easy to fix!).... Sorry you wrote this a while ago and I've only just been able to get back to you. Are you still experiencing the same issue? Might be worth looking up where both 8ve keys are so you know what you're looking for....
Thanks for replying, I've now sorted it, it turned out I had the crook to far over to one side and it was keeping the neck octave key very slightly open, we live and learn! Thanks Chez!
Over Blowing - I am new to the tenor, I managed to pick a fairly decent unit up for only 140 USD. If has a few fingernail scratched and a couple of dent but nothing that inhibits play. My question is when I a doing just the regular C to C scale and I do the same on the high end as well with the octave key. I find that as I try to go from a low (Insert note) to the same note with the octave key I can get to the high not but if will not come back down once I release the octave key. I was told that I could be over blowing since I am still getting working on my embouchure. Is there an exercise that I can do to help correct this. I do not think that there is any air leakage but not sure.
Hmm...to be honest it's tricky to tell the issue without hearing you play. If you can invest in a lesson I'd be happy to provide a one on one session over Skype. Alternatively, do you have a local sax player or friend who can check that it's definitely not an issue with sax itself?? Cx
Chez Taylor - Saxophone oh super! Love your vids! Are légère reeds worth the buy? 30€ for 1 reed is not cheap.. or are they more usefull for professional players?
Heya honey. Sorry for the slow response. Check out these vids which may help; ruclips.net/video/i-9clASE5Ek/видео.html ruclips.net/video/xcUAQ4cfYIU/видео.html ruclips.net/video/_FM_AuHcvWY/видео.html
zootMKVI ha ha! Sorry honey! I'm so swamped with playing & recording that I rarely teach. That is generally the going rate in London these days though. Lots of videos here for free so can't complain really 😉 peace & love! Cx
I actually studied to be a composer and was a professional for 2 or 3 years before I switched to performing. I studied under Professor Nigel Osborn in Edinburgh before moving back to London in my early 20s. If you're interested in my career journey, let me know as I've considered making a video on this...
Thanks for commenting rrexx. I tend to start beginners on 2 (unless they're already naturally very strong) then work up to 3.5. At this stage either stick or maybe go back down to 3 for my flexibility. Thanks for your comment & for supporting the channel. Cx
On tenor I am still trying to find the mouthpiece that suits me best, I have an otto link tone edge 7*, but its not bright enough, with too little projection, I have a dukoff D7, with the right amount of projection, but is too bright, I have a Jody Jazz HR*6*, but it's lacking in brightness, so my, my prefered for normal use is the Jody Jazz, and contemporary the dukoff, but I feel as though I am still not where I want to be on my mouthpiece Alto, JDX7 seems fine, doesn't play well with my 1935 King so I will either just try and make it work or just do something different (I play rigotti gold tenor 2.5s on my alto and tenor)
RREXX thanks for the comments guys! Massively agree re: reed size relative to ability! There is definitely a buz about harder reeds implicating a more advanced player. My comment on reaching size 3.5 reed then returning to softer is just a good method I've found to gradually build embouchure strength. Reed size is very dependant on the type of sound you want. Indeed I play a 2.5 jazz on Bari (mega soft!) but a 4 vandoren traditional on soprano (because I can't keep the cheeky devil in tune!). Appreciate your comments & thoughts folks. Great thread. Thank you!! Xx
I dont have a place that sells such things, only selmer c*s and the occasional jody jazz, I cant try anything beyond that at local stores, I can only listen and hope from online buying from places like wwbw and saxalley
BRUH THEY ARE JUST GETTING GOOD SOUND BECAUSE THE SAX THEY USE ARE CLEAN, HAVE A NICE MOUTH PIECE, DONT HAVE OLD DRY UP SPIT IN THEM THAT YOU HAVE TO CLEAN WITH ACID BECAUSE SOME KIDS WHO USE THE INSTRUMENT AT A MIDDLE SCHOOL DONT CLEAN THEIR INSTRUMENT. Most people watching are probably a 12 year old like me in a middle school trying to get a good sound. But the sax I use and probably everyone else uses, are not well taken care of from the last holders of the instrument. This comment is edited because some people read my old comment wrong because I have a C- in English and can't talk right. I'm just saying that I know for a FACT that it's the instrument. THEREFORE, I blame the instrument. I do know how to play because my teacher even admitted it.
I'm 12. My sax can't play low notes at all. It just plays a high f. Had it checked multiple times and they said it was fine. I changed reeds twice and nothing changed. I'm the only one that can't play a low f and it's stressing me out. :(((
why am I here, I'm considered the best sax player at my high school😂😂😂😂....btw beginners, I've been there once keep practicing trust me, it will pay off👍👍
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I actually came here to learn, but damn, that lamp is so cool!
Ha ha! My dad made it for me. He's such a hero right!?
Chez Taylor - Saxophone can you play trumpet
Didnt even notice. Couldnt take my eyes off Chez ;-)
Thanks for providing the videos. I'm getting back into playing music again after 30 years, and whilst I am able to read music from the other instruments I've played, I've always wanted to play the sax.....so, I bought one and here I am. Again, thanks for providing the informational videos.
Yes Gary! So glad to have you on team saxophone and thanks for supporting the channel. x
I've just discovered Chez's videos. Really, really helpful. Thank you.
I definitely needed tip #10, got an alto sax about a week ago, have been playing it everyday and never cleaned it, even got a light cold and I think that's the reason, thanks for saving me from my laziness :)
Ha ha! Glad I could help. No more nasty germs for you my friend ;-)
Just came upon you and your videos, watched a bunch now - I like your ''saxie'' way of talking sax so much, that when you asked for a like thumb, I logged into this site for the first time in around five years. Just re-learning my Tenor after a thirty year gap... [thanks for the Madness bits - I have just been playing - practising my growling]
Thank you for this! I found my articulation and tonguing really improved as I couldn’t get a handle on it when I played around a bit with the recorder!
Great video. I have been playing saxophone for about 6 years now. And for all the beginners out there i just want to say: Keep on practising and you will make some serious progress. It is really the key.
Thanks for this beautiful and inspiring comment. I'm sure lots of people will benefit from your lovely positivity. Cx
Great info, Chez. Your trumpet lamp may upset a lot of trumpeters, though.
fctrumpet 😆😆😆
i came here to watch this for my wife who's learning sax, and I saw that trumpet lamp and thought "WTF who dared??!?!" Yep, trumpet player. But I noticed the trumpet appears to be giving it's creator and anyone who uses it the middle finger...bravo trumpet!!!
hey ,if anyone else wants to uncover learn to play the saxophone try Vaxicorn Simple Saxophone Guide (should be on google have a look ) ? Ive heard some interesting things about it and my co-worker got cool success with it.
Maybe it's a cheap or totally non-functional instrument. I could see thst, and it would be a waste to NOT use it for a lamp in that case...horns aren't cheap. I don't think you'd use one like this if it were very valuable.
thousand thumbs up. lovely video
I keep coming back to this one! Thanks Chez, and Happy 2019!
First time watching a video about saxophones. Loved it. Thanks for the info. I hope I'll to play for my family at parties one day.
Definitely! Show off your skills. That's what it's all about. Saxophone is not for the shy or faint hearted. Thanks for watching the channel honey. Cx
The trumpet lamp is so cool
I know most of these
I'm transitioning from clarinet (which I've played for almost four years) to saxophone for jazz band
So I already know about reeds and ligatures and breathing
The only new facts for me was the Bb thing and the setting it down
Possibly a video from transitioning from clarinet or flute (what my friend plays who also has to switch to saxophone for jazz band) to saxophone
Very great full for time to help learners, and with sense of humor,makes it easy.
Brinley John what a gorgeous comment. Thanks Brinley. I'll remember this one! Sometimes I get a bit disheartened with these videos as they are very time consuming. Lovely people like you motivate me to continue. Cxx
Just subscribed. I play trumpet but would like to learn the sax just for my own entertainment. Loved the trumpet lamp. Like to get one myself. Thanks!
Thanks for taking the time Chez. Im a working musician in Dublin, Ireland. I play lead guitar, Drums, Bass and Keys (not at the same time :) ) One thing that really bugs me is playing the ska set on keys. (my main gig right now is a keys player). So.... i ordered a new shiny tenor sax. I played Alto years ago but always wanted a tenor. Hopefully will be playing the ska on a more authentic instrument for it by next week. Loving the tips, they are incredibly helpful. Best of Luck, Stephen.
Fabulous! Good for you babe. You can never have too many instruments ;-) And ska is perfect on tenor. Sorry it;s taken so long to respond. How have you been getting on with it? Cxx
Chez Taylor - Saxophone no probs its a crazy time of year. Yeah getting there with it. I need to work on my embouchure though. Muscles arent holding up for long enough and I get tired trying to keep it right. But working on it :)
My excitement brought me here. Very informative. I just bought a saxophone and arriving this week and I can start on my lessons locally. I can't wait to start.
willott wuthrich welcome to team saxophone!
Your Trumpet lamp is brilliant!
My dad made it! He's such a rockstar ;-)
I am by all means an amateur ive loved jazz and the sax for most of my life and final got around the courage to actually buy one i live in a country where there isn't actual any professional training for this sort of music (i live in Iraq btw) and im glad i found your channel it is incredibly helpful to someone how kinda has no idea what he is doing so thank you.
shinigami what a gorgeous message. Means so much to me to receive this. Thank you & good luck with your musical journey! Cx
thank you as well
Learned on the altogether and switched to the Tenor and just couldn't get the same tongueing nor reed control. Just plain hated my teacher and finally just gave it up after middle school.
I LOVE THAT LAMP
Great video too!
It awesome right?! My dad made it for me for Christmas - isn't he a clever man?! ;-)
Great job, Chez! Maybe you should have put item #10 at the beginning !? yuch... I also suggest trying to keep your saliva "clean" , meaning, don't eat or drink in between songs, unless you also rinse out your mouth! Sugars in the saliva is the MAIN cause of sticky pads.
mark peotter excellent point! Can't believe I missed that. Thanks for commenting mark!
Thanks for another one Chez. Brilliante!!!
Merci, tu es une super maestra.
Thanks for highlighting the 10 errors. My question is about the ligature, how tight should they be tighten..very tight? With 2 screws, how tight should they be?
Good question! Depends on the ligature a bit - soft (leather) ones can be tighter as they absorb the vibrations. Ligs like vandoren optimum only have a few pressure points in order to allow the reed to vibrate more freely so, again, you have a bit more wriggle room to tighten slightly more. With generic metal ligs, I would try not to tighten too much and squeeze the reed to death as this will effect how it vibrates and encourage squeaks. You may find these videos useful; ruclips.net/video/_FM_AuHcvWY/видео.html ruclips.net/video/4RdJJ_l2AsM/видео.html
I love your vid and im learning such a lot - but i do feel sorry for the taxidermy trumpet lamp.
Tks for help, Chez!
Marcos Paulo pleasure Marcos! Cxxxxx
Love your lamp
It's fabulous right?! My dad made it - he's my hero :-)
Chez Taylor - Saxophone such talent :D
Awesome tips! Just got a sax! Subbed! Thanks so much!
EricBlackmonGuitar pleasure. Welcome to the team. X
Breathing...I always use my ears :-) but nose, isn't that how you do circular breathing? Cleaning, any gear you like best, do you use anything on your mouthpiece? Like Theo Wanne cleaning kit? Internal of sax body? I have silk now but feel like it isn't always doing a great job. Thoughts on a beginner using a Legere reed instead?
Hey buddy. I quite like pad savers for the body of the sax but only if you play regularly as they otherwise just harbour the moisture and develop bacteria. ie it needs to be taken out to properly dry off regularly.
For the mouthpiece, so long as it's wiped out and dried each practice I very rarely do anything else. Occasionally I may give it a clean with just warm water or even a very gentle baby shampoo but literally once I year will I do that!
I do like ligere reeds and think you should definitely give them a try!
Cx
How th you breathe through your ears
Congrats Chez, your videos are really helpful stuff.
Thanks Tito! Really appreciate that. Love it when people like you get in touch with such positive comments. Makes me keep it up. cx
These tips at the start for me would have saved me months of frustration! Thanks Chez! (and wow, you're getting close to 2,000 subscribers!)
Adrian Kingsley-Hughes aw thanks son much honey. So much love and support. I'm so grateful. Yes, nearly at the 2k mark! Very excited!
I wonder if using a nose pincher device would help with the first issue. I am a nose breather.
Added to my favourite
Hooray! XXXX
@@cheztaylorsax lady , good afternoon! Do you have a skype account ? I am interested in your classes.
At my school we started directly at 2 & a half
Wowzers! I bet that was tough. 1.5 would be easy although definitely wouldn't sound as nice. Cx
I am not sure I heard what you said about tounging. Shall I tongue on every note or in the 1st in bar.
Just to clarify, there are four fingerings for Bb (that I know of), including low Bb. It also depends on what octave, though.
Yep, lots of alternative fingerings out there depending on the tune or circumstance. You may find this video useful honey; ruclips.net/video/P2K0vlo9IRk/видео.html
I think if you're going to discuss things like toungeing, maybe explain what that is for those who haven't even GOT the thing from eBay yet...grabbed a gorgeous used Yamaha YAS 23, I'm sure will be a showcase in my collection. For newbies, they're all a good 19 to 39 years old, made from 1980 to 2010 or so. Student horns, so not very often in extremely clean shape. But solid gear if you find a nice one that was completely babied. Not gaspingly expensive if you know what you want, you ask the guy for a fair offer, and you avoid Music Go Round (very overpriced)
Very valuable lesson. Thank you big time.
What about Juno reeds ?? Did you say you were in London ! I'm in Texas ya'll. You ever been here ?
weird, in band I started with a 2, (Reed) and after a couple months I went up to a 2 1/2. Might switch to a 3, maybe. I just think when you have a stronger reed you sound so much better.
Not necessarily. I think you develop good strength when you use a harder reed and a better understanding of intonation. Definitely move up to the 3 and try it. You may find this is a perfect fit for you. Everyone is different. Cx
Maryah Ferk i play on 2 and cant get 2 and a half played
Very useful as usual :) - got me thinking about some different B flat fingerings for some songs and scales. Not sure if you have already, but could you do a video where you show very clearly what your preferred front fingering is for high f#? Would be much appreciated!
James William hi there James. Have you watched this one? ruclips.net/video/2MDwg8ntjzE/видео.html
I prefer front F with the fork F# in right hand. Does that make sense? Thanks for getting in touch. Lovely to hear from you. Xxx
Ah that's perfect - should have looked a bit harder, thank you! Time to annoy my neightbours with some squeaking...
Those alternatives worked great, thanks again!
James William smashing! 👍🏻
I started on a 2.5 reed
Great video Chez , but you spelt ligature wrong on the on screen text ! 🤫
i love you chez! you are amazing!
mike tam love you too buddy!! ❤️❤️
Can you post a video of Donna lee improv I’m really struggling with it
Thanks so much!
Yes I've watched your set up videos. The Namm show is in America and it showcases tones of instruments. So you could go and play as many saxophones as you wanted. There are also guests so you could meet for example Mindi Abair. The sax.co.uk guys have been to them before. For your ear candy channel are you improvising on those tracks? I think I asked if you could play the Bugsy Malone theme I can't remember. I've said this time and time before but you truly are a fantastic saxophonist I think you could play any genre any song you wanted. Again sorry for asking but when is the vibrato saxophone coming back?
celticfan0 hey buddy! That sounds fun. Next time I'm in America I'll definitely look it up. I'm sorry I've not got round to the bugsy malone tune. I've played that musical a few times. It's a great one! I particularly enjoy the sax solo in I'm Feeling Fine. There are some awesome sax moments in Hot Mikado if you've not come across that musical you should def check it out!
Re: the vibrato, it's a laugh but I se it more as a toy & bit of fun rather than my regular horn. It's tricky to tune & the tone is very....hmmm....plastic! I promise I'll get it out before the year is out. If nothing else, it's great fun for Christmas tunes. Thanks for your ongoing support of the channel. Cx
love it
its just so nice to hear your lovely english)
Thank you, Chez! You're becoming more didactic :D Keep on it
Uciel Salerno Corral great! Glad you can understand me better. I will continue to try for you uciel! 🙃
That's love ♥
I started on 2.5
Good day.
I am a beginning alto sax player.
How long do you suggest I learn and practice before a lesson with you?
Should I learn all the notes on the alto before?
So far I know:
A B Bb C C# D Eb E F F# G; and their higher octaves.
Thank you,
Marco
Sorry I'm so slow to respond to this. Hope you've made a start on the instrument now and are finding your feet. You may want to watch either of these playlists for some guidance in your practice;
ruclips.net/video/RNmZ8sC9fls/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/cDqdlxfDdJk/видео.html
I saw no difference in the articulation part, what’s the difference between what you did?
My high g, g# and sometimes f# squeaks what could be the problem?
I expect so. Maybe spend some time in front of the mirror to check your embouchure shape. Have you watched this video? ruclips.net/video/99IRSTx1wW0/видео.html&lc=z223ztoyjmv0ifcad04t1aokgqlcxkkfsx2kl2xx2r3jrk0h00410 Might be helpful for you honey. Cx
Chez darling when I go to play the G scale I hold all six fingers down which is the D but when I hold the octave key down it does not work. I hold the bottom three keys down and then to octave key works but when I hold the top three notes down which is a G the octave key does not work I hold the octave key by itself and it works but when I hold all six fingers down it does not work. I want to be able to play high notes on the sax as well as low notes and I can almost play all the way through " ain't no sunshine" by bill withers but I am mixed up with the second part is it aaceded. Most important is the octave key I will learn the song over time but I was wondering why the octave key does not work when all six fingers are pressing down. Thanks and I love your sound on the sax so relaxing
Sounds like you're either struggling with register control or that there is an actual issue with the sax mechanisms itself. Hopefully these may help either way!;
ruclips.net/video/hunaVH4UNlE/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/hpaVzFj4zWA/видео.html
Chez what about when nothing I do is working out I mean I changed the reeds twice and I still can't seem to get a nice sound it gets frustrating so I clean out the sax just like before I put it away and then continue practicing and still nothing no matter what I blow harder and harder and still not hitting the sound I want I almost want to take the mouthpiece and throw it against the wall but it cost $40.00 bucks and I had to by two the first one was an alto sax I could not return it so I had to buy a tenor sax mouthpiece. It get me so mad how come nothing seem to work?
Pete Weiss sorry to hear you're still experiencing the same frustrations. Do you have a tutor? Have you asked their advice? It's tricky for me to comment or advise without actually seeing the issue.... Stay calm! 😉🙃
Chez I think I am stuck at what I know I can't seem to go further I mean I just blow the notes try and read music but it just does not seem to work but I did buy a brand new reed it is a legere reed 2.5 and that seems to help with the sound a lot and now my notes are not so wavy or scratchy but I am trying to learn a few songs from a music book a tenor sax music book but it seems like I am not moving ahead just because it seems like the notes are not the same when I hear the original song
Pete Weiss if I'm honest Pete, it sounds like you could do with some tuition to help you out. Do you have a local tutor you could try? Or I do offer Skype lessons if you're interested. Warmest, chez
i'm thinking about learning the saxophone. i play the flute (5 years) and piano (9 years) any suggestions? i will have no idea what i will be doing.
Olivia Costa Good news, flute fingerings are very similar to sax fingerings. Your embochure or mouth shape I think will be super different. However, the learning curve shouldnt be too difficult since you've played flute.
I don't have any personal experience with flute, but other students at my school make switches from flute to sax without too much difficulty.
Love it! Thx
Chez can I improvise jazz song from beginning to end example with g blues scale if cover music is piano in f scale?(tenor sax) Thank you for answer. I like you and yours playing sax very mouch, Have nice day.
vojko hey buddy! Thanks for getting in touch. Firstly, here's a couple of videos you might find handy; ruclips.net/video/U0kcOfLZqM4/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/oBLnZ-Gr-1A/видео.html
So in short, yes, tenor sax would be a tone up. You've sussed it!
Only snag is, which jazz song! A tune which follows Common blues chord progression would suit one blues or minor pentatonic scale throughout. However, more complex jazz tunes may require chord changes whereby you switch scale to match the chords. I've yet to do a tutorial on this yet? Would you find that useful? Cx
txt Chez, If I uderstand you I can improvise with my tenor sax all song with G blues scale (g,Bb,c,c#,d,f) if cover music (piano) play blues in F. Is this OK?Have nice day.
vojko that's exactly correct! Nice one honey. Cx
I would love to hear you play Gato Barbieri - Europa. Maybe the sexiest and most sensual saxophone piece ever played. My goal is to play this on my new sax in the not too distant future. Only one problem; I've never attempted to play any musical instrument in my life.
Ive played horn for 6 years now, and my brother is majoring in sax performance. I want to get really good and surprise him! Haha, do you know any way in particular to improve quickly/quicker for those with past music experience? Thanks!
Ha ha! You're after a get rich quick scheme...? Unfortunately there isn't such thing really. I'm still constantly improving. Occasionally I watch a video I made from last year & cringe at how awful the playing is! You change and improve over time and there isn't a crash course really I'm afraid. Keep at it and practice hard. The more hours you put in the more you'll improve! xxx
Chez Taylor - Saxophone Aw man haha. I suppose youre right. Im still going to be better than my brother one day ! :] And i can relate to my horn playing, im always improving and it takes time. Thank you!
My saxophones low notes come out really weird. Like kind of gunshoty I guess. If you know what I mean. Sometimes they don't even come out. My low notes come out like high notes. It's really disappointing
Hmm...sounds like your bottom notes are splitting;
ruclips.net/video/hunaVH4UNlE/видео.html.
ruclips.net/video/qPKDRee2Ne4/видео.html
Or perhaps squeaking?
ruclips.net/video/zJKBxBb4MkY/видео.html
Or you may be biting down on the reed so that it closes up and the air can't pass through.
If you continue to struggle after watching these suggested videos you may want to consider a one on one skype lesson as it's difficult for me to help without hearing the issue.
Warmest
Chez
x
please teach me how if we wanna doing some improvisation when we playing what the trick or note ? its so hard :" please teach me im practice alone
Thanks for commenting honey. Not sure I understand your question though. Could you try re-wording it? Happy to help where I can. Cx
Quite nice to listen to the tips. Very useful. But it's embarrassing to see the trumpet as a lamp stand.
Ha ha! My dad made it. I love that thing, it rocks! ;-)
Hi chez, can you give me some advice as to witch mic is good to use on a saxophone,I E wireless not wired, i need to get one soon, any advice would be appreciated, thank you..
Paul Kelly I'm a big fan of the amt. very true to your sound & I love that they're cable free: ruclips.net/video/tsleNcENFPk/видео.html
thanks Chez, will look into those mics, and you have a very nice sound on the sax, any chance of some flute videos????
I actually rarely get flute gigs so don't practice it enough sadly. Think there are a couple of things of me playing online, let me see what I can dig out for you;
ruclips.net/video/j-C4V0rCrKQ/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/dOx4azomIck/видео.html
I’m an adult beginner at age 31 and I have my first lesson for tenor sax tomorrow and it comes with a #2 Rico Orange Box reed. Are those reeds good for adult beginners? They are the cheapest reeds out there and are they good at developing your embouchure?
Sorry to be so slow to respond honey. How are the lessons going now? Have you made good progress? Do you get on well with your tutor? Cxx
Chez Taylor - Saxophone I was able to do an entire C scale on my first day in my teacher tells me that I have a lot of talent and that’s very nice of her to do so on my first day. I’m now on to Rico Orange Box #2.5 and I’m already on eighth notes. Have you had any students that were able to get a C scale out on their first day with no prior prior woodwind experience?
Phillip good work! Sounds like it’s going swimmingly! Everyone’s different and faces different challenges at the beginning. Some find time production easy but finger work, coordination &/or reading music very tricky. I hope you continue to enjoy it. Let me know how you get on. Cx
At times, my teacher notices that I can get throaty on certain notes but I just start using my diaphragm. I had A LOT of difficultly on the low Bb and she told me to lift my eyebrows and now I’m able to get it out. She also told me that I should do it in front of a mirror or buy a little mirror right next to the music that I’m playing on my music stand.What would you suggest to help me stop being so throaty?
I can't schedule when I practise much because my brother hates it, (not my playing, just the instrument in general) I just have to play when he's not in
Oh no! Hun that's tough. You should just be assertive and play when you want to play! Or maybe you could keep your sax on a stand so that you always have it ready for occasion when he's not in. Then you can quickly pick it up and get going. They have cheap ones on amazon. Cx
You have two middle fingers. The next time your brother whines about you practicing, use one, or both, of them.
Hey chez! Great video so I’ve been playing sax for about a month now and I’ve been setting the horn down with all of the keys facing up. I don’t want to spend a lot of money buying like a stand and stuff, but I really don’t want to break or bend anything. So if I’m wrong, may you please correct me? Thanks in advance
i think Jay Metcalfe puts it keys down so the horn weight isn't on the keys. So backwards from what you're saying.
It seems insane to risk an expensive instrument for a 25.00 stand, lol :) Buy. The. Stand. Trust me.
and be smart and stick it in the corner, AWAY from kids or pets. jmo.
Hi Chez! Loving your videos, they are so helpful as I'm a complete beginner. I have a question though, when I play the top 2 key on the left hand and then press the octave key, it automatically jumps an octave. Happy days! But when I want to play something like a D and then press the octave key, nothing happens, I've tried my mouth in all sorts of different positions, but to no avail, I can get the higher octave if I blow differently, but I suppose that defeats the purpose of the octave key, please help! I've seen other people have the same problem, so hopefully its me and not something wrong with the sax. Keep up the good work :)
It may well be the 2nd 8ve key isn;t lifting as it should - either sticky (easy fix) or damaged/misaligned (not so easy to fix!).... Sorry you wrote this a while ago and I've only just been able to get back to you. Are you still experiencing the same issue? Might be worth looking up where both 8ve keys are so you know what you're looking for....
Thanks for replying, I've now sorted it, it turned out I had the crook to far over to one side and it was keeping the neck octave key very slightly open, we live and learn! Thanks Chez!
I've been using 2 for 3 years yet i can't play on 2 and a half. Does this make sense?
Not sure I follow.... Do you mean the 2nd octave of the instrument isn't working? Cx
Chez Taylor - Saxophone reeds
Cool I have a sax
great.x
Over Blowing - I am new to the tenor, I managed to pick a fairly decent unit up for only 140 USD. If has a few fingernail scratched and a couple of dent but nothing that inhibits play. My question is when I a doing just the regular C to C scale and I do the same on the high end as well with the octave key. I find that as I try to go from a low (Insert note) to the same note with the octave key I can get to the high not but if will not come back down once I release the octave key. I was told that I could be over blowing since I am still getting working on my embouchure. Is there an exercise that I can do to help correct this. I do not think that there is any air leakage but not sure.
Hmm...to be honest it's tricky to tell the issue without hearing you play. If you can invest in a lesson I'd be happy to provide a one on one session over Skype. Alternatively, do you have a local sax player or friend who can check that it's definitely not an issue with sax itself?? Cx
Chez Taylor - Saxophone I looked at one of your videos about embesure and I think it really helped
Chez Taylor - Saxophone - I will certainly try a lesson shortly
Aren't reeds (standard) made of bamboo?
Nicholas Welleman think it depends on the Brand. I’m about to do another reed video soon so will go into more detail. Got a few new brands to try out.
Chez Taylor - Saxophone oh super! Love your vids! Are légère reeds worth the buy? 30€ for 1 reed is not cheap.. or are they more usefull for professional players?
I've really taken to legere actually. Have you checked out my review of them? ruclips.net/video/PIBJNyYzaBo/видео.html
dose any one know where to get a good reed?
Hi give sax&co at crowborough a ring and let them know what you are looking for. There are many variations.
I like ur video but can u take the video closer so we can see what ur working in
Legere reeds thanks.
What kinda of alto sax mouth piece do you recommend? I've been playing for 3 years and the mouthpiece my sax came with just isn't do me well.
Heya honey. Sorry for the slow response. Check out these vids which may help; ruclips.net/video/i-9clASE5Ek/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/xcUAQ4cfYIU/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/_FM_AuHcvWY/видео.html
£55 an hour....Jeez!....glad I learnt when it was 10/- (ten shillings) that's 50p an hour !
zootMKVI ha ha! Sorry honey! I'm so swamped with playing & recording that I rarely teach. That is generally the going rate in London these days though. Lots of videos here for free so can't complain really 😉 peace & love! Cx
What college(s) did you go to?
I actually studied to be a composer and was a professional for 2 or 3 years before I switched to performing. I studied under Professor Nigel Osborn in Edinburgh before moving back to London in my early 20s. If you're interested in my career journey, let me know as I've considered making a video on this...
When I first started I first played 2.5 and 3s ;-;
Thanks for commenting rrexx. I tend to start beginners on 2 (unless they're already naturally very strong) then work up to 3.5. At this stage either stick or maybe go back down to 3 for my flexibility. Thanks for your comment & for supporting the channel. Cx
I play on like .105 tip openings on tenor with 2.5 reeds, I generally play 2.5s reguardless, even on .80s
On tenor I am still trying to find the mouthpiece that suits me best, I have an otto link tone edge 7*, but its not bright enough, with too little projection, I have a dukoff D7, with the right amount of projection, but is too bright, I have a Jody Jazz HR*6*, but it's lacking in brightness, so my, my prefered for normal use is the Jody Jazz, and contemporary the dukoff, but I feel as though I am still not where I want to be on my mouthpiece
Alto, JDX7 seems fine, doesn't play well with my 1935 King so I will either just try and make it work or just do something different
(I play rigotti gold tenor 2.5s on my alto and tenor)
RREXX thanks for the comments guys! Massively agree re: reed size relative to ability! There is definitely a buz about harder reeds implicating a more advanced player. My comment on reaching size 3.5 reed then returning to softer is just a good method I've found to gradually build embouchure strength. Reed size is very dependant on the type of sound you want. Indeed I play a 2.5 jazz on Bari (mega soft!) but a 4 vandoren traditional on soprano (because I can't keep the cheeky devil in tune!). Appreciate your comments & thoughts folks. Great thread. Thank you!! Xx
I dont have a place that sells such things, only selmer c*s and the occasional jody jazz, I cant try anything beyond that at local stores, I can only listen and hope from online buying from places like wwbw and saxalley
BRUH THEY ARE JUST GETTING GOOD SOUND BECAUSE THE SAX THEY USE ARE CLEAN, HAVE A NICE MOUTH PIECE, DONT HAVE OLD DRY UP SPIT IN THEM THAT YOU HAVE TO CLEAN WITH ACID BECAUSE SOME KIDS WHO USE THE INSTRUMENT AT A MIDDLE SCHOOL DONT CLEAN THEIR INSTRUMENT. Most people watching are probably a 12 year old like me in a middle school trying to get a good sound. But the sax I use and probably everyone else uses, are not well taken care of from the last holders of the instrument. This comment is edited because some people read my old comment wrong because I have a C- in English and can't talk right. I'm just saying that I know for a FACT that it's the instrument. THEREFORE, I blame the instrument. I do know how to play because my teacher even admitted it.
Ha ha!
Chez Taylor - Saxophone but you did help me a lot thank you.
JaketheSnake I am 12 from middle school😂
I'm 12. My sax can't play low notes at all. It just plays a high f. Had it checked multiple times and they said it was fine. I changed reeds twice and nothing changed. I'm the only one that can't play a low f and it's stressing me out. :(((
JaketheSnake I am a 12 year old from a middle school who plays sax
I just realized her lamp is a trumpet.
👍👍❤
❤❤❤💪
Sub'd thank you.
That feeling when you've practiced for at least an hour every day since the first day you got your saxophone XD
Hooray! Love your style honey ;-)
No.1 Do not marry the sax player.
Fun fact: u can't get a cold from being cold
First Mistake is watching too many videos
very informative though thank you
why am I here, I'm considered the best sax player at my high school😂😂😂😂....btw beginners, I've been there once keep practicing trust me, it will pay off👍👍
It's awkward being a beginner I agree but pushing through takes you to a great place! Thanks for supporting everyone in Team Saxophone buddy! ;-) Cxxx
For the love of God clean your saxophone 🤣