Saxophone: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 04:07, 31 January 2006

Revision as of 04:13, 31 January 2006

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===The embouchure===

In the typical [[embouchure]], the mouthpiece is generally not taken more than half-way into the player's mouth. The bottom lip is generally curled in slightly (though some players choose to turnover the lipbottom outward)teeth, and the mouthpiece is rested upon it, held firm with light pressure from the upper teeth resting on the mouthpiece (sometimes padded with a thin strip of rubber known as a "bite-pad"). The upper lip closes to create an air-tight seal, and the corners of the mouth are kept firm and pulled up towards the nose as the head is tilted down to straighten the neck and thus the air-current.

Two things are imperative to a full and quick-speaking sound: [[diaphragm]] support and the position of the throat. The player's diaphragm acts as a bellows, supplying a constant stream of air to, and through the instrument. The throat should feel open, as when yawning. This openness should remain constant throughout the register of the saxophone, especially the low register (D down to Bb [or A if available]). The full range of the instrument should be played without changing the position of the embouchure.