How to Put a Reed in an Alto Sax
There is no way to produce a sound on an alto saxophone unless there is a reed on the mouthpiece. The sound is produced when air is forced over the reed, causing it to vibrate. However, there is more to producing a good sound than just putting the reed on and blowing; the reed must be in good condition with no chips or cracks, and it should be a uniform golden color. A reed with a green hue has not been aged enough and will not produce a suitable sound. The reed must be properly placed on the mouthpiece to get a professional-quality sound.
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Instructions
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Place a new reed on your tongue and suck on it to break it in. A dry reed will not vibrate properly and will produce a harsh sound. Saliva is mildly acidic and penetrates the reed's pores better than plain water.
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2
Loosen the ligature, the metal band that slides over the mouthpiece to hold the reed in place. Take the old reed out and throw it away.
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3
Place the flat side of the reed against the flat side of the mouthpiece and slide the ligature onto the mouthpiece carefully.
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4
Adjust the position of the reed so that you can barely see any of the mouthpiece over the tip of the reed.
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Tighten the ligature screws until they hold the reed firmly in place but not so tight that the ligature cuts into the reed.
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Place the mouthpiece cap over the mouthpiece until you are ready to play. Be careful not to touch the reed tip.
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Tips & Warnings
If a reed is chipped, it should be thrown away. Always have 2 reeds broken in. If one breaks, you can replace it and be ready to play immediately. Keep reeds in a reed holder to protect them from breakage.
Although there are some reeds produced today from artificial materials, they do not produce the good quality sound that cane reeds provide. However, sometimes with beginners, it is all right to use an artificial reed because they withstand harsher treatment than cane reeds. Don't attempt to trim a reed that has become chipped. The tip will not vibrate as well and will produce a strident, harsh sound.
