My first horn that I ever learned was a Boston soprano saxophone. I was very determined to play it because a sales person from a Sam Ash store in Paramus New Jersey told me that it was almost Impossible to learn as your first saxophone. My answer is, that’s not true 👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿 Rico Blue
To play like Kenny g you must use a Effects Processor .Put it on Grand Hall or Reverb.You already have a great sound probably greater .I sound exactly like Kenny g using Mic Processors .Most say ,I am Miming, but I am not😅😅
Branford Marsalis is my benchmark. He has many different sounds from "Treat it Gentle" (like Sidney Bechet), "La Valse Kendall" (ethereal near-classical), to his solos with Sting such as on "An Englishman in New York." Wow!
I dont care how "hard" this is. Im going to practice and conquer it. I've gotten to intermediate level with piano and guitar... I started on clarinet in middle school so woodwind instruments arent foreign to me. I tried a soprano sax a few times that was a cheaper one with mechanical flaws so it didnt really motivate me to want to play it all that much. This time around I think ill invest a little more money into it and have a luthier on speedial. Soprano here I come
This is a great review! I started with soprano and did experience lots of factors you mentioned. My ultimate favourite is Jan Garbarek especially when playing Parce Mihi Domine with The Hilliard Ensemble. This is what made me give up clarinet and change to Soprano. No one told me how difficult it could be! I went on about it so long, that for my 70th Birthday my wife Trish bought me a Soprano!
Nigel, you are absolutely correct regarding the Soprano being difficult. I am new to Soprano Sax, never played a sax before. However, I just love the sound it keeps me movitated. I practice about 1 1/2 hours each day with a TE Tuner. Since I never played before I don't know what's easy or what's hard. I just know learning an instrument takes time and practice. It can be frustrating. For me playing the Soprano is like a hobby, I am retired and a member of McGill Music School. Thanks for your words about Soprano Sax. PS: I want to sound like Art Porter.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool not too bad at all. I found out quickly that certain Mouthpieces play in tune better than others. My Rousseau classic 5 is always flat across the horn. My Windycity mouthpiece is slightly sharp, which is fine. Thanks for your videos.
Courtney Pine for me - The 37th Chamber, UK representing! Ive seen him a number of times and he switches between Alto & Soprano . I love his phrases and accessibility with his choice of covers and own work.
Close to Kenny’s sound in the middle, but not up high. He’s a bit brighter there. My favs on soprano are Bill Evans, Jeff Kashiwa and Mark Johnson (early 1990 on JVC label)
Kenny G plays on a Dukoff D8. The Jody Jazz custom dark simply won't output that kind of sound if you're going for the 'Kenny G' sound. Also, mic placement needs to be right in front of the bell to get that high pitched tinny "oboe" sound, not to the side where it will come out more warmly. I'm sure you already are well versed in all of this :) Your sound is beautiful regardless. Great video!
I like the following soprano sax tones better than Kenny G (best to last): 1) Grover Washington Jr. 2) Jay Beckenstein 3) Ronnie Laws 4) Kenny Garrett (The Other Kenny G) 5) Branford Marsalis 6) John Klemmer
That’s a great list! All excellent musicians, if I was to add more contemporary saxophonist to your list it would be: Najee, Gerald Albright, George Howard and Art Porter
@@DeltonBoswell Oooooh, Najee! I forgot about him. Yes, I do like his soprano a lot. I loved his cover of Anita Baker's "Sweet Love". I may have missed Gerald Albright's soprano work.
@@ketong71 yes! That is one of my favorite songs of his. As for Gerald Albright “Beautiful like you ft Will Downing” is a great song to listen to. 🎧 🎷 🎼
This is so inspiring thankyou! Just about to get me a soprano yss 475mk2. Regarding fav soprano players I love the sound Bob Sheppard gets on Kurt Elling ‘Not while I’m around’ it’s gorgeous! Nit forgetting Andy Sheppard?? No relation must be something in that name! 😂
Wonderful video...and yes it is so difficult to get a good sound on the soprano because the instrument is not supporting you, you have to do it all yourself with a very clear sound idea in your mind i must say i hear a lot to trumpet players like Chet Baker or Clark Terry and Roy Hargrove on flugelhorn as a guide to my soprano sound, they are in the same register but the flugelhorn is more focused and i try to get this very precise intonation and focus and separation between the notes
Erm..a, I find soprano easier and tenor tougher. But I'm most comfortable with an Alto ; it's half a soprano in pitch and it's really easy to run scales up to three octaves in one breath.
Also a good starter mouthpiece- it’s just slightly larger than the 4c. If you get a chance to compare you might find one suits you better than the other. 4C is just the standard choice.
Great video, thanks. I’m a past clarinet player from my youth, and just bought a soprano sax as love the sound, especially Kenny G. Working hard to improve and loving it!
Kenny G. Not my taste in music but he found a niche. You come pretty close. I guess he keeps his bank manager very happy so kudos to him. Don't know what effects he uses and his vibrato is unusual.
I prefer your tone to Kenny G's. My first soprano arrives tomorrow and I'm very excited to get started. I'm already a decent clarinet, alto and tenor sax player, so it's a development instrument for me.
I think, there are 2 caveats with playing the soprano sax: 1. Because it's short, the instrument must be made to far better specs + precision than people's usual alto or tenor. That increases the cost. 2. The embouchure. Usual embouchure makes it much harder to play, because it can't sufficiently control the tiny reed.
Agree fully. The soprano is far less forgiving than the other common three types. And yes… you really have to be careful with equipment and get the best equipment possible.
I know to most jazz players think Kenny G is a joke. But I got into to soprano saxophone because of him. I've listened to his music since 1985!! Getting then on cassette tape and then later on DVD! I would love to play like him!!
People are just mad that Kenny became rich. He commercialized Jazz music. Kenny's control, tone and flawless use of Circular Breathing are second to none. Listen to G Walkin' of Kenny... Esp at the end.
My favourite soprano sax player/sound is Lucky Thompson playing ‘In a sentimental mood’ from the 1965 album ‘Lucky Strikes’. A sublime and ethereal sound. Worth checking out.
My fav Soprano players: Grover Washington, Jr Kenny G Gerald Albright Cannonball A. Also, Nigel you are a pro sax player and your soprano playing is really great! When I play the soprano I sound like a clarinetist and not a saxophonist... Is that "normal" when doubling from Alto or Tenor saxes to soprano sax?
Thanks Bobby! It does take a while to get a good soprano tone. You have some great players there to model from so just try to copy THEIR sound when you play. You’ll get there!
I’ve spent just over 2 years playing nothing but my soprano and I’m finally happy with my soprano tone and my tuning is virtually spot on throughout the range although the altissimo does take some practice. It’s not an instrument you can just jump on now and then and hope to do it justice. I’ve also been doing some Kenny G stuff recently and the thing you’re lacking Nigel is the hair, I’ll send my Kenny G wig over it makes all the difference..😉
I assumed that the tuning issues were mainly due to the small size, after all, even with tenor small changes in embouchure/air speed in the high notes have more affect on pitch than at the low end.
I picked up soprano this year. I was shocked that I could barely get a note out in the first week. After about 6 weeks, 2 dozen different reeds and 3 mouthpieces, everything started to click. The Selmer concept worked for me in the beginning, but after I figured out how the embouchure really worked I moved over to the yanagisawa mouthpiece with the 2 3/4 legere Reed. One thing that still puzzles me is the very very precise location on the cork for the mouthpiece. If it isn't exactly right within 1mm, it isn't just out of tune, but I also get some kind of vibrating double tone on some of the lower notes. Maybe I already need a tune up?
Could be a mechanical issue Eric. I’d get it looked at. Tuning is always challenging. A small movement of your mouthpiece makes a big difference when the instrument is smaller!
i think the difference is with kenny g is that he has a sharp sound when it comes to high notes. your sounds is smooth as you transition from low notes to high.
Hi there good tone lovers and altissimo squeezers, my first instrument was and is the Bb Clarinet. After years of practicing long tones throughout the chromatic scale, I have a reasonable sound on the clarinet. My rhythmic abilities when it comes to sheetmusic are still poorly. But my good tone always gets me some admirers. So practice long tones every DAY if you blow in any kind of horn and never forget that others may want to play with you - so feel the rhythem and get it right too !!! Later on I added a Tenor and Altosax and whilst I was at it I got soprano sax too. I love it because it´s the closest instrument to an oboe, considering single reed instruments. And not unlike the oboe you have only very little to put between your lips. So Mr. McGill is right - the only thing that helps is the practice time you put into a wonderful sound. What that may be, is up to you, but it definately helps to listen - lets say just as much as you practice. I wonder why noone so far mentioned GROVER WASHINGTON JR.. Just Listen to what he does on an Soprano Sax - he is exelent! I now even play a Bassclarinet down to low C. And although some of you may think ok hés got a few woodwind horns - I´d like to say: „Every of these instruments is a diffrent planet!” And unless yoúve got tons of time - it´s better to get familiar with one planet and try and make that one planet beautyful. For those, like me, who have an unreasonable urge to experiment with more than one - keep in mind yoúll most likely be the master of NONE - unless your first name is Nigel ;-) BUT each instrument can teach you somthing. The clarinet teaches you to love Mozart and how sweet an altissimo can sound, whilst the Chalumeau Register makes you lose your bearings. It can teach you the sound of crying and laughing and everything in between. The Bass Clarinet teaches you what VOICING is and how little air yoúve really got under your ripps. So take a deep breath and think HOME and than try to be efficient with your airstream. The Tenor Sax can teach you how a big instrument can sound lovely when played Pianissimo. The Alto Sax has tought me that instruments made in China for very little money can sound great and that it´s better to practice and improve your playing than to buy the new Selmer Supreme. So realy its not so much about gear as some Music-Schools like to tell us ;-) Uuupps, no I didńt mean almost every online school - I suppose the teachers just cańt make enough money out of playing and teaching their instruments - which is sad to say, cause in that case we should rather play football. 😉 The Soprano Sax teaches you to be humble. No we cańt be good with every woodwind - unless we are willing to put the time and afford in it takes. So pay respect to all the people that are in the progress of making music. Even someone playing recorder today might end up blowing us all away one day, by performing that one peace of music which is closest to the heart, with an Armenian DUDUK - as happend in the opening scene of The Gladiator. The Soprano Sax is a wonderful instrument you can cry and laugh with, if you willing to give it not a try but your respectful attention and time. Loads of Gemütlichkeit from Germany - Excuse my bad english Ím still in progress All the best. wishes - Elmar
Beautiful video! You explain the complicated world of Curved Soprano Saxes very clearly. I apologize for my question being outside this exact context. I currently face a big unknown. I already own a professional straight soprano (P. Mauriat System 76 Mk II), and I would like to face the adventure of a Curved Soprano. The problem is that there are few curved soprano sax models, but they have price levels at two ends. In fact, we go from a multitude of economic (Chinese) sax to professional ones, and there is little or almost nothing at an intermediate level (and even price). I would like to buy a curved soprano of at least honest and dignified quality, but without spending a fortune. I'm in serious trouble. I would be grateful for a suggestion. Cordial greetings.
Jay Beckenstein; GOR-geous tone on his Keilwerth. I’d rather listen to you, Nigel, than Kenny any day. I think he has a wonderful sound on tenor, but I don’t like his schmaltzy soprano tone. Great video!
I grew up listening to Sydney Bechet on soprano and clarinet. His wide vebrato was powerful as was his improvising. I now have a Yamaha YSS 475 but play tenor most of the time. As others have said, picking up the soprano now and again is not ideal.
I played clarinet for ten years before playing soprano saxophone about 5 years after buying my first alto. I had already learned not to bite the mouthpiece when playing high notes. I think playing clarinet first helped. I like Sidney Bechet, Woody Herman when on soprano
Favorite soprano-saxophonist: George Probert. Favorite solos of his: Milneburg Joys: ruclips.net/video/u5f6nfzo58U/видео.html see 2:21 for his solo and see 2:38 for his matchless execution of intervals, what I call the calliope-effect, as if he's playing two separate instruments, in rapid alternation. See also Jazz Me Blues, ruclips.net/video/_qe3ALBTtX4/видео.html, see 2:50 for the most clever counterpoint, between trumpet and soprano saxophone ever recorded.
Tangent: the recorder is not easy to learn. People think this because we give them to school children, but think of how horrible they usually sound. This is not because they inherently sound horrible (listen to a professional player), but because it is actually difficult to play properly. In this sense, learning the recorder is like learning soprano sax: both are deceptively difficult.
I would like to sound like Jay Beckenstein of Sprya Gyra. I refer to the track Grovers Grove, a fabulous performance by Jay that can be found on RUclips
To be honest I’m not a big fan of the Kenny G style and sound but I do very much appreciate the Wayne Shorter sound in the early Weather Report years as well as John Coltrane (ie My Favorite Things)
Favorite soprano player -- Coltrane on My Favorite Things. None finer than how he makes such a hight and sweet horn sound so dark and sinister on an otherwise cheery song.
Thanks for your sharing. Kenny G is using Dukoff D8 with his Mark VI. That is the horn he start to use since high school. Your sound is very close to his by using HR Dark. Glad to hear your sound. That makes my motion to get a jodyjazz.
Definitely my favorite soprano player (contemporary jazz) is George Howard, my favorite song is “Hopscotch” from his 1991 album “Love and Understanding” 👌🏽🎵🎷
For me the best sounding soprano players ever were Bechet’s first pupil Bob Wilber and his colleague in their duetting group called “ Soprano Summit “ Kenny Davern !
I’m finding the stock mouthpiece has a lot of resistance. I’m about to buy a SYOS Steady in a 6 tip opening and the Legere signature reed. The American cut I use for my alto will me to bright for what I’m going for.
Good information. As mentioned below, Branford is a fantastic soprano player. When I was in school I was captivated by Jan Garbarek's soprano sound, especially with Keith Jarrett. I have owned YSS-62, Selmer SA80 serie I, and now a Yanagisawa 991. Love the 991. I have a metal BARI mouthpiece for a bright (and loud) sound and use my Selmer S80 E opening for 90% of my soprano work.
I just bought a yanagisawa white curved soprano. I’m trying to get those nice warm fuzzy tones and not so bright and edgy. Sweet and sensual type sounds. But I’ve only been playing on it for a few days and I can almost reach the full range of the horn. It is a major difference from my Yamaha custom EXB alto. It’s a big learning curve
Nigel, would you recommend buy a soprano from Amazon ? Or better question,… do you think a cheaper Chinese made soprano is the wrong direction when buying ?
Great question Jim! I have tried some Amazon / cheaper Chinese sopranos - some are great, others not so much. Best to check reviews if you are looking at an unfamiliar brand. Sopranos are less forgiving with poor build quality and design so can have problems with tuning.
Thanks for watching! You can check out Sax School and grab a 14 day trial here: saxschoolonline.com/join-today
Great playing and explanation...
Hi Nigel - I´m already a paying student with sax school. But thanks for your invitation.😃
My first horn that I ever learned was a Boston soprano saxophone. I was very determined to play it because a sales person from a Sam Ash store in Paramus New Jersey told me that it was almost Impossible to learn as your first saxophone. My answer is, that’s not true 👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿 Rico Blue
Definitely Kenny G he made me purchase my soprano sax due to his frequent use of it
To play like Kenny g you must use a Effects Processor .Put it on Grand Hall or Reverb.You already have a great sound probably greater .I sound exactly like Kenny g using Mic Processors .Most say ,I am Miming, but I am not😅😅
Branford Marsalis is my benchmark. He has many different sounds from "Treat it Gentle" (like Sidney Bechet), "La Valse Kendall" (ethereal near-classical), to his solos with Sting such as on "An Englishman in New York." Wow!
Completely agree Clive!
YES Englishman in NY is one of my fave songs
Branford is top-notch....
Branford's sound and solo on "An Englishman in New York" is my benchmark. It's like a modern filmnoir kind of sound.
He’s treatment of “The Peacocks” from his renaissance album was truly phenomenal
I dont care how "hard" this is. Im going to practice and conquer it. I've gotten to intermediate level with piano and guitar... I started on clarinet in middle school so woodwind instruments arent foreign to me. I tried a soprano sax a few times that was a cheaper one with mechanical flaws so it didnt really motivate me to want to play it all that much. This time around I think ill invest a little more money into it and have a luthier on speedial. Soprano here I come
Branford Marsalis😎
This is a great review! I started with soprano and did experience lots of factors you mentioned. My ultimate favourite is Jan Garbarek especially when playing Parce Mihi Domine with The Hilliard Ensemble. This is what made me give up clarinet and change to Soprano. No one told me how difficult it could be! I went on about it so long, that for my 70th Birthday my wife Trish bought me a Soprano!
If you like soprano Sax and clarinet, try the tarogato, the instrument from Budapest (tarogato net). I've just bought one and it is great.
Nigel, you are absolutely correct regarding the Soprano being difficult. I am new to Soprano Sax, never played a sax before. However, I just love the sound it keeps me movitated. I practice about 1 1/2 hours each day with a TE Tuner. Since I never played before I don't know what's easy or what's hard. I just know learning an instrument takes time and practice. It can be frustrating.
For me playing the Soprano is like a hobby, I am retired and a member of McGill Music School.
Thanks for your words about Soprano Sax. PS: I want to sound like Art Porter.
Great to hear you are getting so much practitioner Ronald! Working with the tuner is a good strategy. What kind is playing are you most interested in?
I have played Alto & Tenor for 40 + years. Started Soprano last year to do more old New Orleans style music. Sidney Bechet is my inspiration.
Brilliant. How did you find the transition to soprano?
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool not too bad at all. I found out quickly that certain Mouthpieces play in tune better than others. My Rousseau classic 5 is always flat across the horn. My Windycity mouthpiece is slightly sharp, which is fine. Thanks for your videos.
It was easy for me to transition to soprano sax.Reason , I played the Clarinet .My favorit Soprano Saxophonist is ART PORTER Jr & ARTURO TAPPIN.
The fact that you dont sound exactly like Kenny G is a good thing in and of itself to be valued and mantained.
Thanks!
Courtney Pine for me - The 37th Chamber, UK representing! Ive seen him a number of times and he switches between Alto & Soprano . I love his phrases and accessibility with his choice of covers and own work.
Awesome!
Close to Kenny’s sound in the middle, but not up high. He’s a bit brighter there. My favs on soprano are Bill Evans, Jeff Kashiwa and Mark Johnson (early 1990 on JVC label)
Nice!
I love Branford Marsalis
Me too Seb. Romances for Saxophone album is a benchmark for me.
Kenny G plays on a Dukoff D8. The Jody Jazz custom dark simply won't output that kind of sound if you're going for the 'Kenny G' sound. Also, mic placement needs to be right in front of the bell to get that high pitched tinny "oboe" sound, not to the side where it will come out more warmly. I'm sure you already are well versed in all of this :)
Your sound is beautiful regardless. Great video!
I like the following soprano sax tones better than Kenny G (best to last):
1) Grover Washington Jr.
2) Jay Beckenstein
3) Ronnie Laws
4) Kenny Garrett (The Other Kenny G)
5) Branford Marsalis
6) John Klemmer
That’s a great list! All excellent musicians, if I was to add more contemporary saxophonist to your list it would be: Najee, Gerald Albright, George Howard and Art Porter
@@DeltonBoswell Oooooh, Najee! I forgot about him. Yes, I do like his soprano a lot. I loved his cover of Anita Baker's "Sweet Love". I may have missed Gerald Albright's soprano work.
Yep, they are all amazing. Also have to add Tom Scott and Kirk Whalum!
@@ketong71 yes! That is one of my favorite songs of his. As for Gerald Albright “Beautiful like you ft Will Downing” is a great song to listen to. 🎧 🎷 🎼
@@DeltonBoswell Thanks! Will look into that.
My two favourite soprano sax players are Amy Dickson and Jess Gillam.
This is so inspiring thankyou! Just about to get me a soprano yss 475mk2. Regarding fav soprano players I love the sound Bob Sheppard gets on Kurt Elling ‘Not while I’m around’ it’s gorgeous! Nit forgetting Andy Sheppard?? No relation must be something in that name! 😂
Two fantastic players there. Andy Sheppard did this with us at Sax School: saxschoolonline.com/articles/andy-sheppard-interview/
Terry Hickman My inspiration is Julian Smith. I think he is so smooth!!!
Wonderful video...and yes it is so difficult to get a good sound on the soprano because the instrument is not supporting you, you have to do it all yourself with a very clear sound idea in your mind
i must say i hear a lot to trumpet players like Chet Baker or Clark Terry and Roy Hargrove on flugelhorn as a guide to my soprano sound, they are in the same register but the flugelhorn is more focused and i try to get this very precise intonation and focus and separation between the notes
Cheers Andreas. Great tip about trumpet/flugelhorn. I’ve never tried that. How about Chuck Mangione?
Branford has the most beautiful sound.
I love my soprano sax.but I some exercise music Sheet to improve my whole range from top to bottom with all my keys.
That’s a good idea. We have lots of things like this inside SaxSchoolOnline.
I find compared to a tenor, with the soprano , you need a lot more precision and finesse as well as a much stronger embourchure
For sure. Everything is smaller.
The soprano is no more difficult than any other saxophone. Spend time with it, and you'll be fine.
I agree for a more experienced player. But it’s more challenging to start with soprano as your first say imho.
Grover Washington JR is amazing
Erm..a, I find soprano easier and tenor tougher. But I'm most comfortable with an Alto ; it's half a soprano in pitch and it's really easy to run scales up to three octaves in one breath.
Branford and Ravi. Modern masters.
Great tips....What about a Yamaha 5C mouthpiece? Good for a starter or too mediocre?
Also a good starter mouthpiece- it’s just slightly larger than the 4c. If you get a chance to compare you might find one suits you better than the other. 4C is just the standard choice.
I transitioned from Clarinet to soprano after 20 years. Kenny G inspired me, love the sound of the instrument. These days I admire Ian Jacinto.
Great video, thanks. I’m a past clarinet player from my youth, and just bought a soprano sax as love the sound, especially Kenny G. Working hard to improve and loving it!
Kenny G. Not my taste in music but he found a niche. You come pretty close. I guess he keeps his bank manager very happy so kudos to him. Don't know what effects he uses and his vibrato is unusual.
I want to sound like Nikita Zimin, Valentin Kovalev, and Timothy McAllister
Good goal!
It's difficult if you haven't got ears ! 🙂 I have the same mouthpiece, awesome.
Some notes on that sop have dodgy intonation.
i like listening to kenny g and james carter and walter beasley
All legends!
Excellent thank you I enjoyed that I've been thinking about switching to soprano,but I think I'll stay with alto. Only been playing for six months.
I prefer your tone to Kenny G's. My first soprano arrives tomorrow and I'm very excited to get started. I'm already a decent clarinet, alto and tenor sax player, so it's a development instrument for me.
How’s it going? I played alto and baritone in high school. Just got a soprano and it’s my first time playing a sax in nearly 20 years. Very difficult
if you are coming from clarinet, is soprano a dumb idea as a first sax? what mouthpiece might work?
Good question - I’d still suggest Alto as your first sax, even coming from clarinet.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool thank you
Jan Garbarek
I think, there are 2 caveats with playing the soprano sax:
1. Because it's short, the instrument must be made to far better specs + precision than people's usual alto or tenor. That increases the cost.
2. The embouchure. Usual embouchure makes it much harder to play, because it can't sufficiently control the tiny reed.
Agree fully. The soprano is far less forgiving than the other common three types. And yes… you really have to be careful with equipment and get the best equipment possible.
My favorite soprano saxophone player is Bradford Marsalis
Me too - Romances for Saxophone is an AMAZING album for a classical soprano tone.
Gerald Albright
I know to most jazz players think Kenny G is a joke. But I got into to soprano saxophone because of him. I've listened to his music since 1985!! Getting then on cassette tape and then later on DVD! I would love to play like him!!
Nothing wrong with a bit of Kenny!
People are just mad that Kenny became rich. He commercialized Jazz music. Kenny's control, tone and flawless use of Circular Breathing are second to none. Listen to G Walkin' of Kenny... Esp at the end.
Jason Weber for me
My favourite soprano sax player/sound is Lucky Thompson playing ‘In a sentimental mood’ from the 1965 album ‘Lucky Strikes’. A sublime and ethereal sound. Worth checking out.
Oh that's a good one!
My fav Soprano players:
Grover Washington, Jr
Kenny G
Gerald Albright
Cannonball A.
Also, Nigel you are a pro sax player and your soprano playing is really great! When I play the soprano I sound like a clarinetist and not a saxophonist... Is that "normal" when doubling from Alto or Tenor saxes to soprano sax?
Thanks Bobby! It does take a while to get a good soprano tone. You have some great players there to model from so just try to copy THEIR sound when you play. You’ll get there!
Can a soprano singer plays an Alto sax?
Sure! And we can help you get started when you’re ready. First grab the 14 day trial for our quick start to sax course: SaxSchoolOnline.com
I would like to sound like Dr. Ed Calle on soprano
Me too!
My favourite soprano players: Dave Liebman, Branford Marsalis, Jane Ira Bloom and Steve Lacy.
Great inspiration there!
Dave koz
I really like the sound of Dave Koz on soprano. He has a nice, even tone throughout the range.
I would love to sound like Mike Brecker.
Me too!
I’ve spent just over 2 years playing nothing but my soprano and I’m finally happy with my soprano tone and my tuning is virtually spot on throughout the range although the altissimo does take some practice.
It’s not an instrument you can just jump on now and then and hope to do it justice.
I’ve also been doing some Kenny G stuff recently and the thing you’re lacking Nigel is the hair, I’ll send my Kenny G wig over it makes all the difference..😉
That’s it Ian! I’m a long way off his head of curls. A wig might just be the answer! Glad you’re enjoying your soprano.
George Howard
I assumed that the tuning issues were mainly due to the small size, after all, even with tenor small changes in embouchure/air speed in the high notes have more affect on pitch than at the low end.
I picked up soprano this year. I was shocked that I could barely get a note out in the first week. After about 6 weeks, 2 dozen different reeds and 3 mouthpieces, everything started to click. The Selmer concept worked for me in the beginning, but after I figured out how the embouchure really worked I moved over to the yanagisawa mouthpiece with the 2 3/4 legere Reed. One thing that still puzzles me is the very very precise location on the cork for the mouthpiece. If it isn't exactly right within 1mm, it isn't just out of tune, but I also get some kind of vibrating double tone on some of the lower notes. Maybe I already need a tune up?
Could be a mechanical issue Eric. I’d get it looked at. Tuning is always challenging. A small movement of your mouthpiece makes a big difference when the instrument is smaller!
i think the difference is with kenny g is that he has a sharp sound when it comes to high notes. your sounds is smooth as you transition from low notes to high.
Hi there good tone lovers and altissimo squeezers,
my first instrument was and is the Bb Clarinet. After years of practicing long tones throughout the chromatic scale, I have a reasonable sound on the clarinet.
My rhythmic abilities when it comes to sheetmusic are still poorly. But my good tone always gets me some admirers. So practice long tones every DAY if you blow in any kind of horn and never forget that others may want to play with you - so feel the rhythem and get it right too !!!
Later on I added a Tenor and Altosax and whilst I was at it I got soprano sax too.
I love it because it´s the closest instrument to an oboe, considering single reed instruments. And not unlike the oboe you have only very little to put between your lips. So Mr. McGill is right - the only thing that helps is the practice time you put into a wonderful sound. What that may be, is up to you, but it definately helps to listen - lets say just as much as you practice.
I wonder why noone so far mentioned GROVER WASHINGTON JR.. Just Listen to what he does on an Soprano Sax - he is exelent!
I now even play a Bassclarinet down to low C. And although some of you may think ok hés got a few woodwind horns -
I´d like to say: „Every of these instruments is a diffrent planet!”
And unless yoúve got tons of time - it´s better to get familiar with one planet and try and make that one planet beautyful.
For those, like me, who have an unreasonable urge to experiment with more than one -
keep in mind yoúll most likely be the master of NONE - unless your first name is Nigel ;-)
BUT each instrument can teach you somthing.
The clarinet teaches you to love Mozart and how sweet an altissimo can sound, whilst the Chalumeau Register makes you lose your bearings.
It can teach you the sound of crying and laughing and everything in between.
The Bass Clarinet teaches you what VOICING is and how little air yoúve really got under your ripps. So take a deep breath and think HOME and than try to be efficient with your airstream.
The Tenor Sax can teach you how a big instrument can sound lovely when played Pianissimo.
The Alto Sax has tought me that instruments made in China for very little money
can sound great and that it´s better to practice and improve your playing than to buy the new Selmer Supreme.
So realy its not so much about gear as some Music-Schools like to tell us ;-)
Uuupps, no I didńt mean almost every online school - I suppose the teachers just cańt make enough money out of playing and teaching their instruments - which is sad to say, cause in that case we should rather play football. 😉
The Soprano Sax teaches you to be humble. No we cańt be good with every woodwind -
unless we are willing to put the time and afford in it takes.
So pay respect to all the people that are in the progress of making music. Even someone playing recorder today might end up blowing us all away one day, by performing that one peace of music which is closest to the heart, with an Armenian DUDUK - as happend in the opening scene of The Gladiator.
The Soprano Sax is a wonderful instrument you can cry and laugh with, if you willing to give it not a try but your respectful attention and time.
Loads of Gemütlichkeit from Germany -
Excuse my bad english Ím still in progress
All the best. wishes - Elmar
Wayne Shorter. Derek Nash (curved Soprano) . Learn to play Sop in tune, and you will be able to play any size Sax in tune.
I actually think you're right there Martin. Definitely getting the soprano in tune does wonders for your intonation on tenor!
Love Sydney Bechet, and today, Ewan Bleach. I really don't like Kenny G music or sound (kind of airport music to me... a matter of taste, of course).
Beautiful video! You explain the complicated world of Curved Soprano Saxes very clearly.
I apologize for my question being outside this exact context.
I currently face a big unknown.
I already own a professional straight soprano (P. Mauriat System 76 Mk II), and I would like to face the adventure of a Curved Soprano.
The problem is that there are few curved soprano sax models, but they have price levels at two ends.
In fact, we go from a multitude of economic (Chinese) sax to professional ones, and there is little or almost nothing at an intermediate level (and even price).
I would like to buy a curved soprano of at least honest and dignified quality, but without spending a fortune.
I'm in serious trouble. I would be grateful for a suggestion.
Cordial greetings.
Jay Beckenstein; GOR-geous tone on his Keilwerth. I’d rather listen to you, Nigel, than Kenny any day. I think he has a wonderful sound on tenor, but I don’t like his schmaltzy soprano tone. Great video!
I grew up listening to Sydney Bechet on soprano and clarinet. His wide vebrato was powerful as was his improvising. I now have a Yamaha YSS 475 but play tenor most of the time. As others have said, picking up the soprano now and again is not ideal.
Very interesting question:
What would I like to sound like?
Me.
I have one basic advice for beginners; do situps daily to tone up your abs. You'll find a firm toned abs will make playing any horn, easier.
I played clarinet for ten years before playing soprano saxophone about 5 years after buying my first alto. I had already learned not to bite the mouthpiece when playing high notes. I think playing clarinet first helped. I like Sidney Bechet, Woody Herman when on soprano
Two great role models there!
My favorite Soprano Player is definitely Dick Oatts on the Flim & the BBs recordings, especially like on "New Pants"
Yes indeed you sound just like Kenny G!! Such a beautiful and pure sound. Thank you so much Nigel for sharing. Xxx
Favorite soprano-saxophonist: George Probert. Favorite solos of his: Milneburg Joys: ruclips.net/video/u5f6nfzo58U/видео.html see 2:21 for his solo and see 2:38 for his matchless execution of intervals, what I call the calliope-effect, as if he's playing two separate instruments, in rapid alternation. See also Jazz Me Blues, ruclips.net/video/_qe3ALBTtX4/видео.html, see 2:50 for the most clever counterpoint, between trumpet and soprano saxophone ever recorded.
favourite players - Steven Norman Lackritz, Branford Marsalis, John Lurie....Love your sound by the way!!
1. Eric Marienthal, 2. Branford Marsalis, …999,999,999. Kenny G
My favourite is My Favorite Things by John Coltrane.
Tangent: the recorder is not easy to learn. People think this because we give them to school children, but think of how horrible they usually sound. This is not because they inherently sound horrible (listen to a professional player), but because it is actually difficult to play properly.
In this sense, learning the recorder is like learning soprano sax: both are deceptively difficult.
I would like to sound like Jay Beckenstein of Sprya Gyra. I refer to the track Grovers Grove, a fabulous performance by Jay that can be found on RUclips
To be honest I’m not a big fan of the Kenny G style and sound but I do very much appreciate the Wayne Shorter sound in the early Weather Report years as well as John Coltrane (ie My Favorite Things)
Favorite soprano player -- Coltrane on My Favorite Things. None finer than how he makes such a hight and sweet horn sound so dark and sinister on an otherwise cheery song.
Thanks for your sharing. Kenny G is using Dukoff D8 with his Mark VI. That is the horn he start to use since high school. Your sound is very close to his by using HR Dark. Glad to hear your sound. That makes my motion to get a jodyjazz.
Cheers! Dukoff 8 - I was wondering what size he used. Thanks.
Kenny G's music is the soap opera equivalent of jazz.
Which saxophone model is this? Looks breathtakingly sexy/saxy 🙂
My daughter is learning the soprano,she enjoys it,it was tough going in the beginning,but now it's alright.
Good to hear that!
Oh dear got the wrong instrument then. I can play flute so I reckon I have at least got a head start on the fingering.
You absolutely killed it mennnn you put your own spin on it great stuff 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Can you talk about curved sopranos vs. straight?
Start out on clarinet before moving over to saxophone. It'll do you a world of good.
I’ve never been real interested in soprano because my smallest sax is my flute. I’d rather try a clarinet or have an oboe again.
I really appreciate these three points. Thanks. You were a little close to Kenny G😊
If I play a 7* on Tenor and a 6 on Alto would I need this MP in a 7* or 6?
Definitely my favorite soprano player (contemporary jazz) is George Howard, my favorite song is “Hopscotch” from his 1991 album “Love and Understanding” 👌🏽🎵🎷
My favorite George Howard song Shower you with love and his version of Sweetest Taboo
@@kevinalexander7556 that is a great song! His cover of “Only Human” is also really beautiful.
For me the best sounding soprano players ever were Bechet’s first pupil Bob Wilber and his colleague in their duetting group called “ Soprano Summit “ Kenny Davern !
I’m finding the stock mouthpiece has a lot of resistance. I’m about to buy a SYOS Steady in a 6 tip opening and the Legere signature reed. The American cut I use for my alto will me to bright for what I’m going for.
I hope the SYOS works out for you.
Hi, I really love this video! What is the sax trade and model? Thnks
Sounds like it isn't your thing, wrong style.
blow instrument, big easy, small hard.
It sounded great very much like kenny g.
Nice to watch the video but it would be so much better without the constant sales pitches
Good information. As mentioned below, Branford is a fantastic soprano player. When I was in school I was captivated by Jan Garbarek's soprano sound, especially with Keith Jarrett. I have owned YSS-62, Selmer SA80 serie I, and now a Yanagisawa 991. Love the 991. I have a metal BARI mouthpiece for a bright (and loud) sound and use my Selmer S80 E opening for 90% of my soprano work.
I just bought a yanagisawa white curved soprano. I’m trying to get those nice warm fuzzy tones and not so bright and edgy. Sweet and sensual type sounds. But I’ve only been playing on it for a few days and I can almost reach the full range of the horn. It is a major difference from my Yamaha custom EXB alto. It’s a big learning curve
Cool. Nice horn.
I was lucky enough to watch/ hear Jess Gilliam at Petworth music festival. Wow, she was amazing it made me want to play soprano.
I love Kenny G!! Since I started learning the soprano, I have been really closely following him. What a true maestro he is!! Xxx
Nigel, would you recommend buy a soprano from Amazon ? Or better question,… do you think a cheaper Chinese made soprano is the wrong direction when buying ?
Great question Jim! I have tried some Amazon / cheaper Chinese sopranos - some are great, others not so much. Best to check reviews if you are looking at an unfamiliar brand. Sopranos are less forgiving with poor build quality and design so can have problems with tuning.