How to Do Vibrato on a Saxophone

When you play tenor saxophone, motion of the lower jaw creates vibrato. By moving your lower jaw down while playing a note, you lower the pitch as well. In beginner tenor saxophone, it's important to master this movement as small, controlled motions make for a more controlled vibrato.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Warm up your jaw muscles for a few minutes before you start playing vibrato. Repeat the sound "wah" or "yah" continuously.

2. Play any note on your tenor saxophone. Make sure you can produce this note steadily before moving on.

3. Move your jaw down slightly. Use the same motion it takes to say "wah," like you did during your warm-up.

4. Bring your jaw back to its original position without tightening your throat.

5. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 continually. Start with slow movements and maintain a constant flow of air to create vibrato.

6. Practice with a metronome set at around 60 beats per minute (bpm). Alternate up and down motions with your lower jaw on each beat. Raise the speed of the metronome 1 or 2 bpm each day as you master vibrato for beginner tenor saxophone.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice for about 15 minutes each day.