How to Tune the Sax

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Tune the Sax

An out of tune sax can make a loud squealing noise that will get you noticed in a negative way. Now you can make sure your saxophone is perfectly in tune before you play solo or with a group.

Instructions

    • 1

      Moisten the saxophone's reed and stick it on the mouthpiece leaving a thread of reed at the end. Place the ligature over the reed and mouthpiece to secure it and put the mouthpiece on the saxophone.

    • 2

      Buy a music tuner so that you can compare your saxophone's tone with a perfectly tuned instrument.

    • 3

      Press the tuning button on the tuner so that it plays an A440 tone. Listen to the tone so that you can duplicate the sound.

    • 4

      Blow into the saxophone trying to match the tone you just heard. If the sound does not match, adjust your mouthpiece by adjusting the length of the saxophone.

    • 5

      Push the mouthpiece inward if the tone is too flat. Blow into the saxophone again and try to match the pitch of the A440 tuner. Listen to the tuner again.

    • 6

      Pull the mouthpiece outward if the tone is too sharp. Blow into the saxophone again and try to match the pitch of the A440 tuner.

Tips & Warnings

  • Double check your tone by playing with another sax player.

  • Make sure your embouchure is correct if you are still out of tune.

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