Too Old to Play Saxophone?
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- Опубликовано: 23 июл 2024
- #bettersax #saxophone #saxophoneplayers
Jay Metcalf shares his thoughts on players who ask if they are too old to start playing the saxophone.
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I just turned 71 and I'm retired. I have always LOVED the tenor sax, especially when there's a tenor sax solo in one of my two favorite genres, rock and roll and blues. I finally decided that since I have so much time on my hands these days, I could combine my love of tenor sax with an activity that requires actively using my brain. Use it or lose it, right? So, here I am!
To Tenor saxophone is the best
@@alphonsofregoso6801 Could not agree more. I'm 69, not retired but I cannot wait to get home everyday so I can practice. I'm with you when it comes to the tenor. As for use it or lose it, it's been proven that in order to keep your brain sharp you have to continue to learn. No matter what it is you are learning you have to keep your brain engaged!
Me too! I have been singing and playing guitar most of my life. My tenor sax arrives today!
Good for the lungs.
Started playing at age 65 ..absolutely enjoying it..it is never too late..it just takes hard work and determination.. after 2 years..i joined a wind orchestra..one of the best things i did for myself..i am now 71 and still loving it!!!
Give me your "secret".
Hi there. I'm 57 and was homeless for a couple of months. As a recovering Alcoholic who sold my Alto Sax and Euphonium to pay for a holiday, I found a new home over 6 months ago. The landlady had an Alto laying idle. I have a mini Euphonium/Baritone and was playing that. My Uncle played Tenor Sax with The Redcaps in the sixties and in the 90's taught me on my Alto. I loved it. Recently bought a Soprano that's not shaped like a clarinet but like a mini Alto. Love it. I have asthma but always feel amazing after playing for an hour. I squeak a bit dropping down to the low notes. But I'm working hard on my embouchure and less sounding like a mix between a foghorn and a sick cat... 😂 Love it. Thanks for your RUclips videos. Really useful. 😊
I am a 54 years old truck driver. The last time I played the bass clarinet was in 1983, started playing the saxophone 2 weeks ago after watching Jay (and others) play and teach principles of music. I now, exclusively, am taking Jay's Better Sax courses to learn and perfect the saxophone. I absolutely love it!
Great to hear Steve, happy for you.
Richie,Stubs thousands islands,
Jay,I'm 75, Playing 6 months I'm pretty good,thanks to your insperation.Thanks.
Greetings from deepest Sussex in England. I am 80 years old and have just bought a new tenor to take up the saxophone again: I used to play 60 years ago in a big band at university. I chose to devote more time to playing the oboe: I hadn’t time for both. I have an excellent female teacher , many years my junior but we work well together. I find your RUclips videos particularly helpful. To older learners remember 80 is the new 40.
So true. I like the Hal Leonard Jazz Play-Alongs.
Started at 58 on a Roland Aerophone AE-10G. Never touched an instrument before. Learning entirely on my own with SmartMusic, Jay, and Sax School. Now I'm 60, bought a real alto about six months ago, practice about 1.5 hours a day, and enjoying (almost) every minute. Jay's stuff is especially terrific; he is a natural teacher.
Thank you.
Thank you for this video. I played sax from middle school through high school. In school I played baritone, tenor and my grandfather's C-melody. Years later (like 35-years) I was asked to do something for a talent show outside of what I was known for, (I am a trained vocal artist and sang opera, etc.). I borrowed a friend's soprano sax, talk about into the fire, and after 3-months got to something that was acceptable for the show. That re-ignited he fire and 6-years later I purchased a tenor sax. So, here I am at 65 getting my sax self into playing condition. I really appreciate your videos and love the things I've learned and what I have been reminded of by your instruction. - Karl Wicker
Hi, I'm 64 and started playing sax in my mid thirties. I've been playing professional gigs for close to 30 years and love it more all the time. I think starting later in life helped me because by then I had more patience and discipline. Thanks for your great videos!
Gene, Ontario: Started on Alto in 2009. Age then, 74, Still playing everyday using Smart Music & You Tube tracks. I follow Jay for tips along the way. Great fun and enjoyment. Recently sold my Yamaha Tenor as just a little too much for me at age 85!
Gene Bemus sounds awesome! I use smartmusic everyday with the kids I teach at school. I practice with it myself too. That software is gold. Ben using it for 15 years.
Hi I'm 82 been playing since the age of 10. Played in many bands than had my own for 30 years. For the last 15 years I played in Church at no charge. Thanking the Lord for doing so well.
I’m 60 years old and love the saxophone. I am relearning to play. I have knowledge of theory,chords and scales but my finger articulation and reading is slow. I’m going to keep trying hard because I really like how you teach and encourage. Thanks Jay.
Just a hi from someone making a parallel journey with a cornet. I played French horn in high school, a band instrument that I had to return because I graduated in 1962. If I would have had RUclips to learn about embechure then... oh, my current horn is a 1962 Olds Ambassador. I have had it a couple of years now.
Why was it a little too much, Gene. Too heavy? I am 77 and would like to start just blowing away after having thought about this for years now.
I’m 65 and started when my wife and daughter bought me an alto for my 60th birthday. I had never played any instrument before, but have listened to music and worked as a DJ. I had a tutor from the outset and focused immediately on playing jazz. A couple of years ago I joined an adult community band which I love. We are amateur not amateurish. I also do some fund raising for a cancer charity. Playing is practising. Muscle memory is the hardest thing to acquire and natural ageing is a frustration you have to manage, but the reward of playing for an audience and hearing their appreciation makes all the effort worthwhile. I had a conversation with an elderly music professor at a music festival a couple of years ago. He said “Most these guys here I taught and now they can play me off the stage, playing 8 notes to my one. But it doesn’t bother me, I make sure my one sounds better than their 8”. This is my mantra.
that last sentence 'bout 8 notes is pure wisdom.
Bert Buckley I loved the last thing you said. I am a 52 year old sax player. I am a band teacher but suffered multiple concussions over the last decade. They left me with very little short term memory so it was extremely difficult learning music. I’ve since recovered and my music learning is better but is am experiencing the same thing. Most kids I’ve taught a na play me under the table. Thanks for the wisdom.
@@onesyphorus γειασου
Bert - I'm 64 - last year we moved to a small town in Minnesota (downsizing for retirement). They had a community band as well. At their first outdoor concert my wife said go talk to the director. I did, and said I have had a tenor sax for 40 years but hadn't played for about 39. She said we practice Wendesday nights at the High School, see you there! In 6 months I have played in 7 concerts and love playing and practicing. I found the "Better Sax" videos and learned everything from how to put on the reed to how to play the low notes. Thanks for sharing. Shawn
It took me 3 years to play the 10 or 12 marches in the local marching band on a clarinet when I was a teenager.
I played a little in my late 30s on my own and joined a flute band at aged 57.
I have been playing the Irish flute now for over 5 years and the fife for the same amount of time.
I'm 61 and started playing alto sax aged 17. Played off and on since then but never really progressed. Then two years ago I was invited to join a band and realised just how pathetic I was as a player. I needed something to kick-start and Jay's highly instructive courses have been a godsend. Unlike many other sax teachers on the web, his courses are easy to follow, with no technical jargon involved, and really all it takes, I've learned, is practice, practice. A week ago I bought a tenor, which has been my life-long ambition. The only way is up! And thank you, Jay. Keep it coming, please.
Hi Jay, great video. I've been teaching saxophone since 1977 privately, and have been a band director for over 20 years. My oldest student was 87 years old, and was taking lessons for 3 years. He just loved playing for himself and his girlfriend.. He knew he was not going to Carnegie Hall nor did he want to, he just wanted to have fun. Just thought I'd put it out there that its never too late to learn!!
god bless that 87 year old man play for himself and his girlfriend awesome good for him never too late to have fun
I started playing alto sax in 1998 while in the junior high school jazz band. I had been playing music since 95. Started with flute. I stopped playing sax my freshmen year and then marched sax the last 3 years of high school. I marched baritone horn my 2 years of JR College and then put the sax away for 16 years. My two step kids decided they wanted to join the school band and they both picked sax. So I brought out the horn. There was a lot of rust on my playing but teaching the boys brought back all that musical experience. I can not express the joy I get in watching my boys play. I am so very proud of both of them. They have been playing almost 2 years now and My oldest now tenor alto bari and soprano. We have been watching these better sax videos and picking up some pointers. Now we are working on blues scales and improve. Thank you Jay you are a true inspiration.
Great to hear this thanks.
I’m 41 and have a young daughter starting to play clarinet in her 5th grade band. I played clarinet for a couple years myself before playing alto and bari sax in junior high and high school. Haven’t played or even owned a sax since, and over the last few weeks of toying with the idea of trying to play again, I found Jay’s RUclips videos and have been obsessively watching nearly everything so far. It’s exciting to have this resource, along with the classes, as options for someone like me to restart on sax and be able to do it at my pace, in the midst of my life responsibilities. Thank you Jay for making this content and making it available to all of us! Your approach is so easy and enjoyable to engage with, and your passion bleeds through. These two qualities have always been present in the best teachers in my life, so I’m looking forward to buying my first new sax and making some noise. Thank you!!
Great to hear thanks!
I tried to get serious about my sax playing after high school but could never find a teacher that really knew how to teach. My sax gathered dust for years until I retired at 55. I started practicing each day and was amazed at how much better I got. Now, I play whenever I can and love it. I can practice for hours at a time and do many gigs. It makes my life so much better.
I’m 69 1/2 and I’m a bass player in a cover bank. I’m proud to say I’m taking up the alto sax using my kids 1980s Conn M20. Got a new mouthpiece and care accessories. And I’m not afraid to suck in the beginning. Wish me luck! And thank you Jay for this. It’s great encouragement.
I played sax in a military band in the 80’s. When I left it was 24 years before I touched a musical instrument. I started back on alto, back onto oboe and now have added tenor & clarinet and have jumped both feet into big band and jazz, learning to play improv and am an enthusiastic amateur with the odd pro gig as well as teaching. Having music back in my life is like breathing into my soul. I’m 54 and I have a sax student in his 70’s and think learning an instrument when you are older is so good for preventing a lot of ageing issues.
That's so right, there's a professor in the Netherlands, Professor Eric Scherder, who is trying to promote elderly people to pick up playing an instrument for the benefit of their brain. But here are some similar in English; musicandmemory.org/music-brain-resources/current-research/
It's lovely seeing so many older people taking up an instrument. My nan didn't begin with the accordion until she was already semi-retired, and I had the pleasure of seeing her flourish as I grew up. It was her joy!
Thank you for this. I'm "only" 27, but I was feeling really bad about the fact that I've owned a saxophone for over half of my life and hadn't played since I was 13 because I could no longer access lessons and lived in houses with paper-thin walls. (I had tried to learn guitar a few times because it can be quieter, but it never clicked.)
I picked up my sax again this week while procrastinating over finishing my dissertation, and I have already regained whatever ability I had as a kid. I'm never going to let my living situation get in the way again, and as a show of my commitment, I just impulse-bought a Roland AE-05 as my graduation present. (That's thanks to you covering a couple of their models in your other videos, too!)
Between your content and my uncle who is a jazz saxophonist, I'm sure I won't go far wrong!
61 years old and a student of the sax. I love it...
Jay - you have inspired, informed and transformed my musical journey. I picked my sax again after 20+ years and your content is unparalleled. You are an amazing teacher - you have made the knowledge needed to play the sax accessible to the masses - THANK YOU! I never thought I would be able to play by ear or improvise - I thought this was only for those born with this gift but instead I feel like you have ‘pulled back the curtain’ in Oz and revealed the secrets! Sax practice is now a highlight of my day as opposed to a chore to be done. I’m practicing 90 mins a day in line with the BetterSax course content and my only complaint is that I need more time because I want to learn it all! I’ve received and given a lot of training on various topics over my career and your communication skills are exceptional - as great as your saxophone playing is, your ability to communicate effectively in a way that is clear, concise, across the spectrum of the musical journey is your true calling and we’re all very grateful to have you. Keep up the great work - you are making a huge difference in people’s lives. Thank you!
I started learning sax 8 months ago, the effective way that i learned was playing things i like, it makes you more motivated, practicing everyday easier and have a lot of fun learning.
Never took lessons on sax, but already had music background, helped a lot.
Gustavo Bertoni you are doing it right. I am a band teacher and in the beginning it needs to be fun and engaging. I just mentioned that in my new video. People forget it has to be fun that’s why we are doing this.
You still need lessons though honestly you do yourself a disservice not taking any
@@kennyr1161 Yes, that's why i told that i already had a great background music in Jazz/Classical on piano, i just had to learn mechanics of sax and study the shit out of it playing things i like.
What i meant by that was, instead of following a Sax Method about articulation, i learned a melody like Fly me to the moon and practiced on it. It was way funnier.
Gustavo Bertoni I lm not worried about that I’m worried you might end up with some bad habits that might’ve been avoided with and instructor. I know for sure if I didn’t have one for clarinet I would’ve had some problems down the road in my playing. I don’t mean to come off as rude if I did. I just think there are somethings that you’ll struggle with because you don’t know the exact answer.
@@kennyr1161 I understand! :D
Hi Jay and thanks for this video. I'm 56 and began playing a year ago after a health scare. I have two things to share. First, DON"T WAIT! I picked up an alto about 15 years ago and took lessons for a couple of months. Then, life got in the way and the sax was sold years later.
I often wonder how good I would be now if I hadn't quit. Regrets are no fun.
Now I'm playing a tenor and not only is it great therapy, but it's also a lot of fun and everyone who has a band wants you to be in their band (because sax is so cool). Second, learning at an older age has its advantages. Most of the sheet music is for older songs. I can hear the song in my head which would seem to make it easier to play with feeling. A kid trying to learn 'Love Me Tender' might not know who Elvis is, let alone heard him sing it through his soul. Thanks again for all of the great videos. Now it's time to practice.
I turn 70 I April and I picked up the tenor sax about 13 months ago. I played bass clarinet way back in high school, but was amazed at how much (music-reading etc.) I still remembered. I take lessons from a fantastic musician here in town and play in a couple of concert bands nearby. It's become a real source of pleasure for me, even though I can't play all the notes. I try to play the ones that really matter. And I'm getting better. It's become a real source of pleasure for me and I thank you, Jay, for the encouragement and support. PS: Putting in a plug for New Horizons International bands across the country. They're bands that welcome all players and encourage a real spirit of ensemble.
New horizons is a great program. I directed 2 of them in NYC in the past.
Hi Jay,
I'm now 46 (47 in December). I have been given both an alto and tenor sax and I'm having great fun learning on the alto and "messing about" with the tenor at the moment.
I'm very lucky in that I was a classical bass trombonist for many years so I now have the time to practice for a few hours daily. I started only about 3 weeks ago.
Ultimately I'd love to play with other musicians as I used to and also go busking on the beach in good weather.
I also intend to buy the Singers Day Bari sax when I've saved some money.
I love your videos. Thank you so much for your advice and help in your tutorials.
Laura - from Birmingham, England
Many responders mentioned leaving their instrument and now wishing to return, me included (clarinet). But many of those folks obviously carried away a love of musical enjoyment enriched by their early exposure to making music. My early years of making music directly enhanced my lifelong love of both classical and jazz music. So let’s enjoy dusting off our horns without despair for lost years since the biggest gift we were given was a lifetime of music appreciation!
I started playing the Sax at 38, now 66 and still loving it. Started on an Alto but then switched to my Yanigasawa Tenor. I had about 18 months of tuition then started going to a music group once a week. Have met some wonderful people through playing . Recently met some great people at a Jazz Cafe in Japan. I play along to music on RUclips or CDs. Love Jazz and I’ll take any hints I can get to enrich my playing. It’s great to hear of people starting to play at all ages. 👌
I started playing for the first time ever when I turned 58 or so after thinking about it for a couple of years. I wanted to be sure before I invested time money and energy into this lifelong dream. One of the best moves I've ever made. I'm 61 now and I'm learning music theory and practicing with a nice community.
Good for mental and physical exercise. Plus you get to meet dozens of players, many late starters like yourself. I started playing 56 years ago. Gave up for 30 years, then saw a sax in a toy shop. Inspired me to dig out my old tenor and start again.
i am 71 and i just pick up a Sprano and you have help me so much thank you and keep teaching
Can’t wait to start following ur tips when I get my sax Thursday 😃
Thanks for all of the good tips Jay! Love the videos man keep up the good work!
I just turned 50... Eventhough I have a bachelor's degree in Economy, two teaching certificates on skiing, one in tennis and I speak 4 different languages I have spent most of my life in and out of shitty jobs or unemployed, taking care of the house, wife and kid. Since my boy is already at university I got a ton of spare time so I started playing 4 years ago and I am loving it, music does good for the brain and the soul. I am really thankful to Jay, Jeff Antoniuk and others alike for their valuable info that keeps me going strong. Keep it up!
For a long time I’m excited in playing music. I practice sax every day, and loving it :)
Im an 80 year old Drag Racer,and I have a MexiConn Tenor and Selmer BundyII made in Germany. I ve learned a couple tunes, but afterwatching your vid, its time to learn to really play. Ill be subscribing Thanx
Hi Jay, I’m not musically inclined and I’m in my 60’s. I saw some videos of Tachibana Senior High School Band performing and I saw how much fun the band was having in parades, they are simply amazing and fun to watch. I got the bug to learn to play music and after some research I think learning to play sax is the best place for me to start. While I love the looks of the French horn, it probably will be too difficult to start learning on. I like the sound of the Tenor Sax but for portability I would rather play an alto sax. Love your videos.
good for you paul
I’m a vocalist/pianist in the 3rd year jazz program at Capilano university in Canada.. coming from India I wasn’t surrounded by jazz bands in my high school. I’ve recently started playing the saxophone after having fallen in love with the sound! I’m 8 months into playing a tenor and owning one.. My heart is leaning towards the alto now.
Thanks for all the lessons and the give aways Jay! Gets international students like me excited. 🤗😁
h
Hey Jay! This old video just popped up in my feed. I’m amazed how many times that happens with your videos and those particular topics are either something I need or am curious about. I’m 63, a working homeowner with many projects and some social engagements. Learning the sax started over a year ago, but had to be set aside for other priorities. Your videos help me add to my understanding of playing when I start back up. It is awesome to learn from this video that your courses have been geared to folks like me.
Just to say I am stupefied by your content. 61 years old, my 14 yr old son just got seriously into music this year. Inspired, Decided to pull my now 100 year old Selmer alto out of storage and refurbish it. Get it back from the restorer in a few days and am terrified I will have forgotten everything from when I put it down over 35 years ago.
Now YOU have inspired me. Thanks!
Great to hear this!
Loving the tenor in the beginning
What song it is? Sound extremely familiar but can't get the name out
MrPabgon ^
@@MrPabgon old folks
@@kpoudavoff YES THAT'S IT! Oh my god I almost had it but I couldn't remember. Love that tune. Thanks
Jay - I look forward to each of your videos. I am over 50, played violin seriously as a kid and self-taught on piano. I have wanted to play saxophone for as long as I can remember. So, when my son wanted to join band, I nudged him toward alto sax and promptly purchased the beginner instrument. Knowing there was a chance he wouldn't stick with it, I knew if that saxophone was in my closet I'd get to it someday. Well - about 10 years later, he took it to the shop and had it serviced and gave it to me for my birthday. Well - now I practice 2 hours every day I can. It is the one thing I want to do every day. I am very thankful for your videos and your teaching style. I was immediately inspired by your free courses! They showed me I can do it! Now I am enrolled in your Core Essentials and Pentatonic Foundations courses. The content of these two courses serves as daily drills and new challenges. As soon as I think I've mastered it all, I go back and try to play with you. Inevitably I discover more to learn. Thanks so much for your focus on teaching adults! As a music reader, my goal is to become an improviser and figure out how to memorize efficiently. We will see if I can successfully make the transition. Thanks again!
Great to hear this from you.
Thanks for this venue, exactly what I was looking for.
Thank you for all of your inspirational teaching Jay! And thank you for your outstanding teaching tools, truly magic and on target for all levels of playing. This video was for me! I’m 70 now; started playing in my 50’s and got good enough to play standards with a group of veterans, and we had a small band (12 men and women, all seniors, some experienced, some beginners like me). I didn’t have the benefits of your teaching tools then, and I struggled for many hours to master a few songs! The biggest problems for me as a senior beginner were the resistance to learning timing correctly to play with others; and the failure to have a systematic strategy for learning scale, theory and transposition. With your teaching series, I have new hope for all the reasons you mentioned in this video. I’m retired and have the time; I have more realistic goals and increased patience with myself, for a couple of examples. Thank you so much for the affordable and outstanding teaching tools you offer! I recently bought your Blues Foundations course to add to the pentatonic series! Your video inspires me, and knowing I’m not alone is motivational!
Again, thank you so much! Love your work! Dr Rocket R W Turner 🚀
So Greetings from South Louisiana. My name is Phillip Daigle, and I am 65 years old, picking up the Alto Sax AGAIN!. I found your Videos and really Enjoy Blowing my Goose Caller again. LOL. But I am Getting Better A lot Less Squeaking now and The sound is much Better. I bought a Yamaha Student with a Yamaha 4C mouth piece. I do have some trouble following your Videos Because I am Totally Blind. Sence 2003. I did find a Intro to the Alto Saxophone through the Library of Congress, and that is what I am learning the basics on. I am watching all of your Videos and Have learned houw to clean My Sax, and I bought a Reed Geek, and A couple of Swabbs to clean the Nasty thing. Thanks for your Inspiration, and I will contenue to keep Blowing and watching. I will sign up for aAdvanced Corse when I am finished with the one I am currently going through. Thanks again, Phillip K. Daigle
Thanks to better sax for keeping me going and lit my love for music since 6th grade. I'm now in 8th grade and upgrading from my chinese horn to a yamaha yas 82
At 62 and with a huge love for various types of music especially Jazz. This gives me great hope and motivation. Jay I love your channel and all you do for the Saxophone Community World Wide 👍🏽
Best wishes for great success to all of you fellow students out there.
at 65,PTSD and COPD,Hey best thing ever did.always wanted a sax,couldn't read music, never had the time or money.got a alto sax,might not be best one on the market the sounds ok , but all works all seals look new,could get a note at the beginning but can blow it now,thank god for your site,it's been the best thing ever,breathing,nerves,depressions being helped everyday,,,getting there,hey whatever time it takes,not quiting ,,,,Thank you Jay least I can understand you,a real man no bull,no making people feel stupid..hope you stay safe and well.Thank you
Was a sax player through high school. Fast forward 38 years. I retired, and picked up the sax again to see if I could play.
Now I'm in two adult marching bands doing firemen's parades in the summer, and play in two community bands. I still don't practice as much as I should, but am having a ball playing again, and I've met a whole new set of friends.
Your videos seem to answer the questions so many of us have on our minds. Thanks man.
I’m 41. Started playing tenor sax 6 months ago in a church brass band and love it. I have learned a lot from Better Sax yt channel. Wish I had picked it up long ago. It seems like I make a little progress each week although I practice almost everyday. Thanks Jay
Jay, great video and great channel! I commented on another of your videos regarding returning to playing after 15+ years. I'm in my early 40's, I played through Middle School, High School and College but stopped playing when I started a family. I'm fortunate to still have my Pro Level Selmer from those days to play on. But ultimately I returned to playing when my son began playing saxophone, he's been playing about a year now and had been asking me to take out my horn again. I've been back at it for about a month or so. It's been very special to be sharing this with him.... he's a far better player than I was at his age. What is equally as special is he is taking lessons with my former sax teacher. It's great to be playing again! I didn't realize how much I missed playing. Thanks for being here...
- JT
I just turned 35 early this February 2022 and I started taking Sax lessons In my neighbourhood. To be honest I just woke up one morning in January 2022 and said to myself : "I Want to learn playing Saxophone"....but it came out of nowhere...I never have had a strong love for it because I had never noticed sax playing even though it's everywhere. So now I'm glad I decided to give it a shot and hope to have it last until the end :-) Thank you for your videos and your positivity, you're a great person, Jay, keep improving in that way ;-)
Just started learning Alto Sax at age 60, great vids and advice here which are very helpful.
I have always wanted a sax..could never afford one either time or money..I have PTSD. COPD. but now at 65 got myself one.got books to start reading and understanding music to stop me feeling a fool,spotted your sites,,brilliant.god send, hope fully will crack it ,couldn't get a note out of it at first,can do the basic notes now,best thing ever done.THANK YOU
I'm 61, but I feel 45. I started playing sax in 6th grade after playing clarinet for a year or so. I played throughout high school and was in some honor bands. I first majored in vocal performance in university but wound up with a business degree. I stopped playing sax after my sophomore year. Twenty years later I took up the sax again. I had plenty of income to buy a nice alto, so test played a bunch of them, settling on the big key layout and big sound of the SX-90R. I became a collector, at one time owning 15 saxes (bari to 'nino), most of them vintage and playable to various degrees. After a few years of this, I sold off most of my horns to pursue other hobbies--like eating--but I kept that SX-90R alto, and I still dabble with it. My sound is pretty good, but my technique is mediocre at best. I want to get better, and I want to get back to soprano and tenor. But first, my alto chops. I think it's time I enrolled.
Love your site. I just started teaching myself piano three years ago and am having a blast. I'm 49 yrs old and have always wanted to learn a wind instrument. Being a jazz fan I'm thinking of learning saxophone. Nice to see folks my age and older hungry to learn new things.
I started learning to play the sax this week. I am following Jay's videos and am actually playing slowly and making progress every day. I will be 71 Nov 1. Thanks, Jay for being such a great teacher.
Glad to hear it Thomas.
Just bought my Alto at 34. Still learning, I’m so into it... 👍🏽 btw, thank you Better Sax 🎷 for the advices and videos👍🏽👍🏽
Hi I also am a 71 year old woman and am learning the alto sax with my friend who is around the same age we take lessons and practice together and loving it. It’s a beautiful instrument and I am determined to keep it up we practice twice a day for around half an hour each time RUclips is a massive help so thank you
I don't even play sax, but subscribed because I love this channel
Same
Youth is wasted on the young! I too began at 70. I enjoy your videos and thank you for making them available.
I Love your channel and video material. Blessings to you for serving to educate saxophone players everywhere. I'm in that middle age zone. Have always played sax, some years more than others. Having a community band/jazz bands helps keep me playing. This is my daughter's first year on sax, she's progressing quite nicely. Looking forward to retirement 10-15yrs to have more practice time. Til then, I'll keep learning fro your videos. Thanks!
Your videos are very informative and enjoyable to watch. 42 y/o just starting alto sax.
Hello Jay,
I guess that at 77, I am not alone in my club. I started playing at around 70. I am a subscriber of your course. I realize that I haven't visit the course. I had to stop playing because I suffer from spinal stenosis and was knocked out for 2 years. I have started to play again, I play tenor, but I would really love an alto. The problem that I have now is to find musicians of my age except for a great pianist that like me, enjoy standard tunes.
I am at the point in my life that I know I will never play professionally, this is my hobby and I love it. To older persons that would like to learn saxophone, go head, so many instructions and tips right here on RUclips. After a couple of months with daily practice, you will sound great, Good luck to all jump in and have fun
bonjour Guy. Tout d'abord, utilisez une sangle d'épaules et plus de cou. Ensuite, joue assis, évidemment. Finalement, tu as encore la possibilité de jouer en pro. sur RUclips, en formant ton groupe. A 80 piges, je voudrais faire pareil, mais c'est le coût du matériel qui m'envoie ...... ça ne m'empêche cependant pas d'en rêver !!! Dis-toi bien que nous sommes encore des gamins depuis que la longévité possible de l'homme, aujourd'hui, est évaluée à 120 ans ...... Il nous reste de quoi entreprendre n'importe quoi !!!! Prends-bien ta sténose en main , fous-là dehors ....... et BONNE CHANCE
Amazing video! Will for sure use your courses when I get older
Inspiring comments and testimonials from my fellow reformed saxophone players. I played in high school and college but family and job kept me from getting back to it. Now that I've gotten back to it, I couldn't be happier with my progress and the new horizons it is opening up. Special shout out to Jay and what he provides for people getting started. I also am lucky to have a personal teacher here in the Bay Area. Its good to support local musicians always.
Good Evening. I am 55 years old. I started learning sax in the fourth grade and instantly loved it. I too was taught the traditional classical saxophone method. I learned to be pretty darned good and was first chair sax all through school. Upon graduation from high school l had auditioned and accepted into the ARMY band all l had to do was finish enlisting. Then this little voice in my foolish mind told me to become an architect instead. Well after two years of college I realized I couldn’t afford to finish my degree. So mad at myself for not pursuing my true passion and join the ARMY band, l put my horn away and have rarely touched it since. Still having my love of music, l am going to have the old Conn Professional repadded and any leaks repaired and start playing again. Stumbling across your great RUclips videos l have subscribed to your site and once I have my horn in playing status again, l plan on using your lessons to get me back to where I can enjoy the sax again. Thanks for “SAVING” this old musician from a terrible mistake made many many years ago. God Bless and I’ll be listening to your every word. Dean H
Yeah man good for you. The sax has been waiting for you patiently.
Jay, it's so gratifying to hear that people of advanced age like myself (I'm 67) are continuing to enjoy or are starting to enjoy making music, regardless of the instrument. Music is such a gift that we should all take advantage of. Thank you so much for once again sharing your wisdom and inspiration. I am looking forward to taking your courses in the near future.
I just got my alto today! After 10 years of loving this instrument. Wish me luck 😉 also love your videos so please make them, cuz they are helping a lot.
Good luck
I played Alto sax all through Jr and High school and it was the time of my life. I loved performing. I unfortunately didn't stick my horn in a closet, instead I pawned it for beer money not long after I graduated. Long story short, I'm 54, been sober a few years now I was walking through a flea market and I saw an alto sax out of the corner of my eye and it stopped me dead in my tracks, my wife didn't understand why I needed that thing (nor had she ever really believed me when I told her I played). It has been so great playing again like a part of me had been missing the last 35 years... anyway, I stumbled upon these videos searching for key fingerings (I had forgotten a few :) ). Love your shed, I'm getting better and better all the time and soon will graduate into some of your advanced lessons. Your awesome! Thank you sir.
I took private lessons when I was a junior in college, having been an accordion player in grade school. With the Army and other interruptions, I tried to keep it up off and on, and I finally left it in the case. I rediscovered it, and my passion for it, when my son wondered if we might play together. I've tried to stick with it through the ups and downs, some times advancing and some times seeming to be stuck in one place. I'm 76, finally liking my tone and my command of the horn and looking for more ways to play and advance. You're part of that effort. Thank you.
I'm 55 and just picked up sax again, since playing an alto sax over 40 years ago in middle school. My wife thinks I'm bonkers, but, believe it or not, the restart on sax has had a good result and my base skill set actually has come back pretty quickly. And now, I'm ass deep into all kinds of accessories, gizmos, and gadgets for my tenor. I love sax music and hope to get better with Jay's lessons. A former band leader listened to me a month or so ago and said that I was waaay beyond first year, having several songs under my belt (I pretty much play by ear), having only played a couple of months now. Enjoying the journey! Thanks, Jay, for your videos!
Great video, Jay! I too am one of the older players (64) who has ventured by your wonderful site and learned so much! I really love your approach to teaching, and also the tidbits that you throw in to keep the conversation lively!
I'm going to enroll in one of your courses just as soon as I have a little more free time. I'm retired but taking care of my father-in-law who has Parkinson's disease -- my shift is from 10 AM until 10 PM . He lives across the street so that makes it a lot easier.
I have been a musician since seventh grade, playing clarinet, also sax, bass sax, baritone sax, then tenor sax (all of that was in the Emery High School band in Emeryville, CA. I also picked up the bass guitar, rhythm guitar, and some keyboards. Then I joined the Army and played in the 2nd Armored Division band from 1973 until 1975, then moved on to the "Holiday Inn" circuit through the seventies and eighties with various "show" bands.
With a growing family, I needed to make more steady money, so in the mid-eighties I went to college and became a computer programmer. That kept me very busy until I retired in 2018, when I retired. I apologize for the long post; however, I just needed to get that off of my chest.
I look forward to learning from your lessons and videos! Thanks for having all of your great content for all of us!
I used to play several years ago. I would love to have a sax and play again! Sharing on Facebook,Twitter,Pinterest.
Carolyn Barnett it’s never too late to learn. Just start and enjoy the ride.
I was gifted a tenor on my 50th birthday by my family . Have been learning ever since. The topic and the stories of other people below are very inspirational. It’s a gradual journey. Learning to play the instrument will help to learn and build many other skills too (e.g. music reading). Never give up.
I'm 31 and this inspires me more as a beginner sax player from scratch. Love your videos! Thank you Jay. Count me in. Greetings from Bohol, Philippines.
Thanks Jay! I really appreciate this. The availability of on-line info and lessons is amazing, something I did not have when I started playing the flute and alto sax (when I was about 20). -- After playing for a few years later, due to some unpleasant circumstances I stopped playing sax. I started again when I was about 55. I am 71 now and in a situation where my music is appreciated and have gigs about once a month, but am continuing to learn.
Your story is so common. Happened to most of us!
I am 61, retired, “Got out of Silicon Valley”, and landed in Sonoma. I’m back playing my saxophone. I'm so glad I found your site. Thanks for all your doing. I had a Mk VI, and recently found my dream Connqueror 30M. Let’s go.....I’m ready to dive in....
I am really glad I discovered your RUclips channel, Jay. I played sax for a very short time when I was a kid, had a bad experience with an instructor, and gave it up. I've always regretted doing that because I love jazz music and the sound of alto saxophone in particular. Some of my favorite players are Ornette Coleman, Eric Dolphy, Cannonball Adderley (particularly his work on Kind of Blue), and contemporary altoists like Rob Brown and Daniel Carter. I'm seriously thinking of taking it up again thanks to your videos.
I am 67 years old, and recently tried to start learning the saxophone with you. I have been diligently watching your videos, and trying to practice on a cantankerous old sax. I started in high school, and like others, life took over and caused a lot of changes. Thank you for trying to help us old codgers.
Jay I'm 68 and I started practicing and playing the Tenor sax two year ago something I wanted to do in the sax 70"s but was afraid to look foolish. I took lessons then I grow frustrate with the teaching. I told I had good intonation but I need work on my rhythm but the instructor told me not use the metronome but kept complaining about rhythm I fire them both. I set out on my own looking at a lot RUclips videos, then I came a cross your video it was long( lol) but I captivated by what you were teaching so I subscribed to your channel and bought your Better Sax book " Pentatonic Foundation B Flat Instruments" I love it. I'm understanding more and looking for your next video.
It's never to late start something new.
Hi Jay
Just want to thank you so much for all you help and advice on my returning back playing the saxophone after 30 years.
I played and jammed for about 3 years back then, and also got to a grade 3 at music school in the rudiments of music, but as you can imagine after a long time away and intake of too much Alcohol kind of damaged my memory. I had a drink problem for the best part of 20 years, and now have been sober 6 years. I have always loved playing and listening to music, and currently play guitar, which I lead worship in my local church. Though I do love the freedom I get playing the guitar, my heart as always been with the saxophone.
So my coming back really feels like starting from the beginning again, as I had a lot of bad habits that I need to get rid of. I did play both the tenor and Alto, and currently just got myself a cheap Alto, Actually the one you recommended from Amazon. which is amazing, so thank you for that also.
I do hope to sign up very soon on one of your courses, I'm just feeling my way back at the moment learning this amazing (play by ear course) you have so kindly made available for free.
Its going quite well, and really enjoying it, love the backing tracks and the whole course.
Thank you again
God bless
i turned 40 back in feburary i said to myself late last year i wanted to learn how to play so i started taking lessons in late march and i like it a lot i'm still learning practice makes perfect i want to move out of the group home someday and play in a band that's how much confidence i have in myself it's awesome to see the comments in the video by these guys telling their story and stuff keep up the good work never ever ever give up!
thanks jay for liking my comment i love your youtube tutorials a lot!
I enjoy watching Better Sax as there's always something to learn, even though I'm a 50+ years musician who has taught sax for many years, with most students being mature. What I advise students, and I'm sure you do Jay, is spend 12 months learning the basics and then get out and join a band or just other musicians ... then, the learning curve is exponential and that means you keep your momentum.
72 years old and played bass clarinet in grade school (50 year’s ago). I now have a Tenor sax and following your channel. My sax is a Barrington LA Sax. Yes cheap but good sound. Oh yes I have forgotten how to read sheet music. I take up hobbies until I have concurred that hobby, ie golf club repair, gunsmith school and professional gunsmith, machinist, yes bought lathe and milling machine until I have exceeded my expectations, now at 72, retirement has led me back to my childhood. Thank you for your channel.
First of all I’m happy finding your videos Jay. I’ve started again playing sax after almost 15 y. of very intensive work to support my family. I’ve decided to dedicate the rest of my life to produce the best sound of my sax. I practice daily. I’m also subscribing your videos and learn a lot. The COVID limitations contribute the practicing and my sax stays just close to my desk and pc. I’m 49 and started recently to play 1st sax tenor in a Bigband. I do regret I cannot improvise, but want to learn it and contribute the band providing with more value. Thank you for your lessons, your input. You’re doing fantastic work. Take care, stay healthy. Marek. Poland.
Thanks Jay! This video was made just for me. I played lead alto in high school jazz band, won some small scholarships to Berklee school of music, played in community college...but, I'm not that good. I've picked it up and put it down off and on over the last 30 years. I'm 44 now and I'm making a commitment to take my playing to another level.
I’m 63, few months ago I check in many self learning Sax web.. you’re one of them, thanks for your encouraging words I got my first Alto Sax 🎷 last week and starting my saxophone playing and learning journey....a lot of funs
I played sax in my high school jazz band. Picked it back up 9 months ago at the age of 52. Now playing in a local swing band and loving it. Wish i would have never put it down.
I played clarinet in HS and picked it up once in a while over the years. My dad played sax and gave me his tenor (Selmer Signet). I injured my leg at 51 and dusted the sax off and tried to play to some songs and found out for the first time I didn't need sheet music. Never thought that 35 years after HS I would playing with different bands having a great time. Thanks Jay for all your tips. They have been very helpful and opened up a whole new world for me.
I’m 55 in June and I started playing the tenor saxophone at 18 and played a lot 12 hours a day 6 days a week for some time. some. At 25 it went into the closet and stayed then I took it out for a reason I don’t remember but I love it it’s great.
I have a Sonora saxophone made I’d GDR. I am amazed how it all comes back slowly but it is still there.
Ardeshir Sarosh way to come back and play again.
Loved this video. I nevered played as a kid, but picked up a sax in 1990. With work on the road constantly, and family obligations and lack of a place to practice, I never really commited and gave up. Since Covid lockdowns, I started again, 30 years later. I have a lot of time to make up, but with age comes patience. There are a lot of great videos on RUclips, but Jay, your content is truly unique and awesome. Thank you for the advice, the instruction and mostly the inspiration. It was been so much fun. I'm enjoying the Pentatonic scale class and play by ear class. And I really enjoy watching all the videos. You have created a great sense of community, thank you.
I’m 71 and inherited my brother’s saxophone that he loved to play for the family. I’m looking forward to learning and your site is a wonderful way to help me get started. Thank you, Jay!
❤️ 🙏
Thanks so much for the encouragement, Jay! I'll turn 67 in a few months. I've been back to college 3 times since I was a teenager and have discovered that I've become more demanding of myself as I've gotten older... translate more disciplined. You gotta want it! I just bought an alto sax and it arrived today! This is going to be fun! Again, thank you.
Another thoughtful and encouraging video, Jay--not just for seniors starting to play, but also for those of us who have played for decades (coming up on 56 years of playing). Your talents as a communicator and educator stand shoulder-to-shoulder with your exceptional playing (as I’m sure you’ve work very hard at developing all of those talents). Patience, as you stated, seems to be the key for 'mature' players. Patience’s cousin, ‘reasonable expectations,’ also helps keep the joy in playing. At this point in my dotage, I think I’m more focused on playing a haunting version of “Naima” then I am about shredding “Giant Steps”…and I’m okay with that.
You've inspired me to start. I started playing guitar at 15, because my parents couldn't afford a Sax. I'm 42 now and still play guitar, semi-professionally. I love Sax and I'm starting this year!!
Hello everyone, I'm 62 years old and decided to learn how to play the alto sax, which I love listening to. I'm 2 months in training, and I love it. After looking at the breathing techniques here on Better Sax, I am more confident and it has helped improve my sound. It is my hope to be able to perform locally once I build up my wind capacity, rhythm, and sound. Thank you all for sharing your testimonials.
Thank you for the video, Jay! I’m finally getting my saxophone; it’s on its way (having it delivered), and I’m turning 20 soon. I had never played it before and I want to become a musician real bad but feel that it would take years before that will be the case. But it’s better to start now than never, and there are others older than me that are learning.
Wow, I'm a young'un here. I had to sell my Tenor sax 32 years ago to pay rent. I picked up a Jean Paul Alto based on Jay's recommendation and started playing again at 52. Still remembered most of the fingerings and basics. Jay's videos have helped a lot too!
Great to hear.
My dad had to sell his tenor sax 3 years ago because times got tough and it breaks my heart because he was an amazing player
@@jabadahut8420 I found out one thing in life that is true... If you already own something that you really like, then hold onto it. Because you may not ever be able to replace it. I still haven't replaced my Selmer wood clarinet from the same time frame. I have an old Bundy ebonite clarinet that's "ok" for now. I have to say the JP sax is many times better than I thought for the price. Might want to check out the Tenor from the same place when your dad is ready for a new one. I don't think that Jay had looked at it yet, but the Alto I got is sweet!
I fell in love with the Sax some 30 years ago when I attended a concert and saw a young lady stand up and play the Sax. At that time, I didn't have the time to learn. Now at 63, I've decided to learn to play the Alto Sax. It's not without the frustrations, but I'm persevering. Thank you, Jay - your videos, instructions & advice are truly invaluable.
I'm 58 and when I was a kid I tried to learn how to play bass, guitar, "cuatro" and piano but with no dedication at all. When I was 48, I was looking for a music stand and a viola stand for my niece that was learning the it at her's 10 years. When I got inside the music store, for my surprise the owner was my music teacher from high school. We talked about old times and, I expressed to him that, after visiting New Orleans couple times, I love the jazz music and how the clarinet and saxophone were played by those excellent musicians. I always loved music, listening since I was a kid but never learned how to play an instrument or dancing. So he said; "never is late to start so forget about the past this is your first day". He recommended to start the alto saxophone. He lend me one of his' saxophones to feel and explore the instrument so I started taking lessons with him. But because work I have to move to another place where the nearest saxophone teacher is at 90 miles from home so is a little difficult to resume any course. Tried to join college for a music degree looking for evening classes but they teach only during day time. I continued practicing but, without instructor is like feeling alone and with no direction so did not practice often. After joining your site, I feel like I can pick it up so I feel motivated to practice more often. For me music is more than a therapy, I release my stress and improve my learning skills, patience, joy, and overall performance in life.
I'm able to enjoy the experience to play at home simple music such as latin, pop, gospel, ballads, you named. With fun and having a wonderful time, I don't know if I'm going to be a good musician but for sure the experience of playing the sax just for fun has been improving my health, the way I face the challenges, and being a better person every day. My granddaughters loved when I go and visit them having a good time together.
Thanks Jay