How to Hold a Saxophone Properly

If you are learning to play the saxophone, holding it properly is an important part of the process. Proper holding technique makes the saxophone easier to play because you can get more air into your lungs.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Place the strap around your neck. Adjust the strap to a comfortable length.

2. Hook the saxophone onto the neck strap. The strap connector is on the back of the saxophone. At this point the saxophone should easily come to your mouth as you are holding it. If it doesn't, adjust the strap a little bit.

3. Wrap the fingers of the left hand around the saxophone. Place the index finger on the B key, the middle finger on the A key and the ring finger on the G key.

4. Put your left thumb on the thumb pad on the back of the saxophone. Properly holding the saxophone makes it easy for the thumb to move to the octave key as needed. It also allows the both pinky fingers to reach the keys they need to.

5. Slip the right thumb into the thumb rest on the back of the saxophone. Your index finger should cover the F key, the middle finger the E key and the ring finger the D key.

6. Sit straight in a chair without arms. Your feet should be flat on the floor. This allows you to get maximum air to play the saxophone. Hold the saxophone in front of you with the mouthpiece easily in your mouth. Or let the saxophone hang to your right side. Follow your instructor's preference on this step.