How to 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.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

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.