How to Play a Tenor Saxophone

Become a tenor saxophonist and learn to play jazz, rhythm and blues or big band. The tenor sax is a medium sized woodwind instrument, made of brass and often used in bands and ensembles. Learn to play the saxophone like a pro by following these tips.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Reed
• Strap

1. Prepare your instrument before you play by putting it together properly. Assemble the body, the gun and the mouthpiece.
2. Moisten your reed by putting in your mouth. Place the reed on the mouthpiece and tighten the ligature that holds the reed in place.
3. Learn to hold the tenor saxophone correctly using both hands. Place your left hand near the top piece with your fingers at the front and your thumb at the back on the resting place near the flipper. Place your right hand near the bottom with your thumb at the back in the thumb holder.
4. Use correct fingering by placing your left pointer finger on the second key, your middle finger on the third key, your fourth finger on the fourth key and your pinkie free. Place your right pointer, second finger and third finger on the three remaining keys at the bottom of the saxophone.
5. Put the tenor sax to the right side of your body because it is too large to hold out front.
   Attach the neck strap to the sax and loop it over your neck so that you can hold the sax properly.
6. Form the correct embouchure by tucking in your checks and holding your upper teeth against the reed. Your lower lip covers your lower teeth and rests against the reed.
7. Close your mouth, place the tip of your tongue on the reed and blow into the sax without puffing out your cheeks. Your reed should vibrate when you are making the correct sound.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean the mouthpiece before each session.
• Adjust the mouthpiece if your sound is too flat or too sharp.