Alto Saxophone vs Tenor Saxophone which is best to start learning

Want to start learning alto saxophone but confused about whether to choose tenor saxophone instead? Which sax you should choose? This video will show you which saxophone is best to start on (and which ones you should avoid!)
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IN THIS VIDEO:
It's really important to make the right decision on which saxophone to start learning. Get it right and you will be setup for learning quickly, but choosing the wrong one can make learning much more difficult. In this video I show you the 4 main sizes of saxophones you will come across and how they are similar (and different!).
I always suggest starting on either alto or tenor saxophone because their mouthpiece size makes it easier to learn for absolute beginners.
Lots more tips in the video to help you make the right decision, particularly as a beginner saxophone player. I hope it helps you.
Enjoy. Nigel
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0:00 About this video
1:27 Introducing the Saxophones
3:24 The Soprano Sax
4:32 The Barry Sax
5:01 Question
5:29 The Alto and Tenor Sax
7:49 Starting out
9:22 Final Thoughts & Outro
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Disclaimer: Some links are "affiliate links" which means I make a small commission on any sales. This helps to fund this channel and the lessons I make for you. Thanks!
Gear we use: www.amazon.co.uk/shop/mcgillm...

[@nightrider7703]

My dad really likes Kenny G shows, sadly my dad went ahead to Heaven. And i found out thru my cousin my dad was planning to buy me a saxophone.

[@Sloimer]

How old were you? Sorry about your dad.

[@TheLincMiller]

Sax school: "Should you start on Alto or Tenor?" Me who started on Baritone: *I am four parallel universes ahead of you*

[@stankyt5882]

I started on Clarinet and im working on learning the Tenor. It's been about a day, and I've got 5 notes sounding perfect. Fingering isn't too hard, very similar to the Alto (imma learn that when I'm comfortable with the Tenor), and notes aren't too hard since the Tenor and Clarinet are both b flat. When I get the money, I'm definitely gonna start learning Bari.

[@chrisstocum]

Way to make me sound like a bitch

[@Yknow6404]

@@stankyt5882 that’s what I’m about to do! how’s it going now?

[@stankyt5882]

@@Yknow6404 going great! I started learning how to make music by playing parts on the tenor and the clarinet and its been going better than i interpreted

[@03Venture]

Hello! Even though I’m not a pro musician, I dare say I agree with 100% of what you say in this video. Great work! I became enamored with the saxophone back around 1957, when I first saw on local TV a show featuring a troupe of circus clowns who were excellent, conservatory trained musicians. They called themselves “Gabi, Fofó & Miliki”. Gabi was the straight man of the group and he played beautifully the curved soprano sax. Right then I decided I wanted to learn the soprano sax. My father agreed to take me to the school band director and music teacher, and I got enrolled in the Band Program. Unfortunately, there were only 2 saxophones available, neither was a soprano, and they were already taken. The teacher, Mr. Morel, talked me into starting my music education on the Bb clarinet. He rightfully explained that the clarinet’s technique encompasses to a large extent that of the saxes and even the flute, and that I could move to the alto sax later on. That was back in early 1958 and to this date I live along with my wife and a stable of 7 different saxes and several flutes and clarinets.

[@thahilyfe]

I picked up the sax this year, it's definitely an instrument to be reckoned with. But what inspired me to play/learn sax was actually my jazz band band mates playing. The instrument looked so fun I just had to learn it.

[@immrblury4169]

How has it been because i have also for the same reason

[@thahilyfe]

@@immrblury4169 its been good, I've learned some new things here and there, but not much progress. I had to move schools, due to my grandmother (she is 82 and needs help) I dont mind, but i've had to put the instrument down because of this. I plan to pick it back up one day.

[@nicksonthevet]

​@@thahilyfeI clicked for the sax but stopped for your granny! How is she?

[@nic_sax]

It’s always been on my heart and I love the ability to express yourself on such a wide range. Finally picked one up and I’m 3 weeks on my way. Really enjoying the Alto Saxophone.

[@RedRebel8]

Q: What inspired me? A: Sax sounds a bit like Sex.

[@amosblackmore1]

Manu Dibango is my favorite sax player! Great video Sir! Thanks!

[@skoch9995]

Well..., I dare to say that you are on the wrong path dude.. Although both sax and sex require lots of discipline, you can get good at either of those two by practicing over and over again. The only difference is that sax may get you to the way of earning your living, sex ... well, you’ve got to figure it out by yourself Lol...

[@jacobsaccount9353]

@@skoch9995 figure it out by my self? But i dont want to.... cant you do it for me?

[@carltongifts2041]

Charlie Parker

[@celestinowona]

@@amosblackmore1 Mine too

[@georgem6185]

I played the saxophone 40 plus years ago when I was in grade school. Recently during the pandemic I decided to learn how to play again! I purchased a new alto saxophone 🎷 and now watch your videos.

[@mikesanderson8580]

I have always been a huge fan of UB40 . Hearing the late great Bryan Travers playing the intro to food for thought for the first time, was just magical and made me fall in love with the gorgeous tones of the sax to the point where at 61years young I have purchased my first alto and have started having lessons ,2 months in I'm loving it I'm living the dream and progressing nicely. Thank you B T RIP buddy. ❤

[@KevinTalley]

Getting ready to turn 50 in Dec 2022. Just now buying an Alto. When I was a kid, I remembering hearing the live version of "Old Time Rock and Roll." and fell in love with the Sax. Of course Baker Street, Smooth Operator, You Belong to the City . Love all your videos

[@donavandear]

I didn't know what a saxophone was when I said I wanted to play saxophone to the band teacher in 3rd grade, I just wanted to sit by Phylis Peterson in the band. I got into recording sound my entire career because of the saxophone 50 years later I still play sax but I don't know what happened to Phylis.

[@tomassaavedra2588]

I decided to start around 2014 after hearing postmodern jukebox's interpretation of careless whisper, something just clicked. Also loved 80's songs and their use of saxophone, your latest trick with Michael Brecker being one of my favourites. After taking classes at my school with and old battered yamaha i went on to buy myself an old used alto in pretty good condition that happened to be an excellent instrument.

[@russwebber6138]

I heard a sax player,on a foggy rainy night in San Francisco, playing in a doorway and it was magic.

[@LaughingCay]

My mother used to sing in a band in the sixties and she has mentioned a few times that her absolute favorite instrument is the Saxophone. I assume she has ment the Alto saxophone but it could also be the Tenor. Either way, I wanted to learn it so I can play for her. She is in her 70s now and having some issues with her memory but I think she appreciated my first noob tries over the phone to her. I played White Christmas,. I wanna get good enough fast so I can deliver an enjoyable tune for her before it is too late.

[@kirbykinetics_372]

i hope you never stopped and played her a beautiful song 🙏

[@nicksonthevet]

I clicked for the Sax, but I stayed for your mom! How is she?

[@DarrenR1985]

Have just picked up a sax as loved jazz for a long time. and the sound of teh Sax is just so soothing. had it two weeks now and loving the lessons tips and now if only i can figure out how to read music and makes notes consistently!

[@curtmayberry7487]

I started when I started 5th grade in 1976. I was required to play an instrument by my parents. I played in school until 1980. I put down until I made a new years resolution this year to pick it back up. I am so thankful for Sax School which has helped me get started and stay motivated. Thaks Sax School. Great courses.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Awesome to hear that Curt! I’m glad you are enjoying the lessons and courses at Sax School!

[@1Dariak]

I just randomly decided the other day that I would like to learn to play a few instruments. I've always loved the sound of the saxophone. I love Kenny G, jazz, and swing music. I'd love to learn to play a few simple songs and maybe something more complicated one day. This video was perfect to answer some of my initial questions and makes me want to proceed down the path. Thank you !

[@locarnese5598]

Always inspirational and a joy to watch your videos. I've just started on sax this year, and actually chose a C-Melody. Frankie Trumbauer is one of my idols. Also, I play mostly with fiddlers and the ability to play in their keys is a boon. Thank you again, greetings from Virginia.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool! I’ve never tried a C Melody sax actually.

[@kayquinn3879]

Hello from Paris, Nigel. Just came across your videos while investigating learning an instrument (1m 51 btw but they say it's never too late ...). I love bossa nova and jazz and am naturally drawn to the sax. I know NOTHING about solfege or playing any instrument so just wanted to thank you for such clear, enlightening videos ! Your charisma is equally inspiring ( i watched a couple of clarinette and flute tutorials before yours and was, unfortunately put off by the teachers themselves as opposed to the instruments !) Thanks to you I will be trying sax alto and look forward to watching your courses once I purchase my instrument. Warm regards Kay

[@west-ci8hz]

Thank you for the video...my dad should play the alto sax ....he passed away when i was 2...thats the only thing he left behind...and my elder brother took it ...so now im gettin myself set up to get my own sax ....didnt kw where to start until i saw this video.....thank so so much....

[@elnauta9525]

I started listening Stan Gets and the Bossa Nova plus Gerry Mulligan collection called "Round Midnight" or something like that, at that time Mulligan sound was my favorite, in fact.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool, love Gerry Mulligan!

[@MrMelby]

You are killing it, Nigel! Keep on keepin' on!

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cheers!

[@deanworsley5208]

My inspiration to start, Lee Thompson, Clarence Clemons, the sounds from George Thorogood songs definitely. Once I got into it and spread my horizon, jazz and blues just hooked me.

[@jennyleyland2183]

lily was here and Careless Whisper and the soloist in Lost boys was my inspiration in my teenage years, here I am 20 years later!

[@geomonroe1164]

I've always wanted to play a Sax. I out one of the common factors with the music I enjoyed listening to has a saxophone in it. Like Junior Walker, Classics IV, Tower of Power. About 4 years ago I finally had the time to commit to it and there is a music school in the next town over. Its' been a challenge but it is really coming along now. I am up to 7 keys on my tenor and enjoying every moment of this journey.

[@zabellesax]

I always wanted to play since I was 8, I loved the sound of it, and it looked mysterious and unusual. I was always rubbish with music at school so put it to the back of my mind. I loved hearing music with sax in, it was one of the only instruments I ever wanted to play and the drums. Years later, in my 40s going through my bucket list, completed some things off it, and wanted to learn sax just to say I tried it and it did not work out like the drums. My friend is a pro flautist but teaches woodwind and she offered to teach me when I told her I wanted to learn the sax. She brought her sax round to try, and I got a note out of it, and she was so lovely. She told me to get a cheap alto sax off e bay which I did and a kids sax book. Had my first lesson with her and that was it I was hooked. Started to advance, she said she could not teach me anymore as she did not have the skills, and found Sax School, thanks Nigel. Where I am learning new skills everyday and absolutely love it.

[@zykalkerr3679]

I also would like to thank you for your advice, you are an extraordinary teacher, its much appreciated

[@g000glemaniam4]

I've always loved the sound of the sax, tenor being my favorite. In the beginning it didn't matter much who the artist was I just loved the sound. Earlier on Grover Washington Jr, Stanley Turentine were my favorites, later came Marion Meadows, Kenny G, and now that I'm learning to play Coltrane, Rollins, Ammons, Stitt on and on... I love the instrument and trying to play it makes me appreciate the great artists even more.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Brilliant. All those guys are fantastic inspiration for saxophone. Great to hear you listening to a wide range of players!

[@solangegouveia3618]

Hi, great channel 😂Dave coz is my I inspiration. Could I start on Yts 62 as a begginer? Hope to hear.

[@ianrudd3388]

Started Clarinet couple of years ago, always intended to graduate to Sax when I felt ready. Now ready to spread my Tenor wings, although finding the weight a challenge, onward and upwards.

[@tomtresco2952]

Junior Walker gave me goosebumps listening to him, I`ve just started learning 2 weeks ago and bought my 1st Tenor Sax

[@anthonyezzell1357]

I started because I saw you playing “No Tears In Heaven” by Eric Clapton. You played it so beautifully I decided to try to play saxophone seriously. Thank you for inspiration.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Wow, thanks Anthony!

[@nyqsBuz7mR]

Thanks you for the advice I bought my Frist Alto sax 🎷 today.

[@RedNovaGaming]

Imagine having an ad for yourself on your own video... Now that's some next-level epicness, Nigel Besides that though, I think it would be interesting to start on Baritone. I've played Bari for 4 years and I always feel a bit more relaxed and laid back when I'm playing it vs. playing an alto.

[@amberkaylor8306]

I've always loved the sound of the saxophone, I was fit for saxophone in 5th grade but when band started in 6th my parents couldn't buy a sax so I actually played a brass instrument for until 9th grade lol the begging of my 9th grade year I switched to tenor sax I'm self taught and it was stressful I'm the beginning switching from brass to woodwind and switching from base to treble clef not to mention I'm only 5,2 and 115 pounds so not a very big person but it's the end of my freshman year and I've managed to cram 4 years of experience into the last year and I'm so glad o started playing sax I've come so far and I love my tenor

[@Danox94]

My first sax ever, an alto, should arrive in a couple of days. As someone who's had plenty of fun playing the recorder since elementary school, I've always had a lot of respect for the saxophone, and I began to dream about playing it after I got into jazz from the 50's and 60's thanks to the great Paul Desmond. Hearing him on Take Five for the first time was almost a religious experience. Cheers, Nigel!

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

That’s brilliant inspiration. Have fun with your new sax!

[@deadbang241]

I was tuned into reeling in the years featuring the Motels ! The song , “only the lonely” has the guitar solo fallowed with a sax solo , fell in love with the often subtle ,saxophone in so many songs in the rock and roll category.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Brill!

[@jilesmelvin144]

The best Steely Dan song with a sax solo....hard to choose between "Deacon Blues" or "FM."

[@79blackbelt]

Only The Lonely is one of my favorites.

[@jexbarbosa8604]

The very first time I "fell in love" with the saxophone, was in 1995, with the piece Stormy Saxophone, from The King of Fighters series. Through the years I met some friends who actually play the instrument and they inspired me! I ain't got my sax yet, but as soon as I can get one, I think I'm gonna start with the Alto Sax!

[@gangofgreenhorns2672]

I came across Moon Hooch busking on a KZbin video several years ago, and had to learn after that. Started on tenor, but obv scooped up an alto soon after too (pawn shops are great places to get cheap saxes; if you can inspect a horn well enough yourself). Trying to keep myself from getting more gear while we're stuck inside. Been practicing more though--assume most people have. Stay safe everyone!

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Sounds like your saxophone collection will be growing soon!

[@yvescanel4292]

Hi, I am 68 and started saxophone in '95 with Alto, 5 years later I switched to Soprano for convenience weight and size, but when joining the local band there was never a part for soprano, so I switched again to tenor which I love really, now I play in 2 bands, one with tenor and another one at baryton, and like very much both, Yves

[@crispydrag00n77]

Leo P inspired me mostly! I played alto for one year in HS but switched to my favorite instrument the Bass Clarinet! I just got a tenor and can’t wait to practice and jam with it!

[@jakestake5914]

I honestly chose the instrument in grade school because I didn’t know what a saxophone was. Little did I know that I would want to perform on this instrument and I absolutely love it.

[@NikolajLepka]

Q: What inspired me? A: I play clarinet and want to try that fabled register key that isn't four notes off from the octave

[@stankyt5882]

Yes

[@anikonytlol]

yes

[@aleatharhea]

I'm mainly a singer with adequate keyboar skills, who enjoys playing cedar flute. I bought a Yamaha wind controller and vl70-m sound module years ago, for realistic horn & wind instrument sounds when wanted in a song. I kept it set to a flute fingering and mostly used it for flute. Now I want to branch out and learn sax fingering.

[@steveschwartzenberg9152]

When I was a young kid, my neighbor was a professional sax player and piano tuner. I used to listen outside his window, outside his house, and was mesmerized by his playing. When he found me out there, he asked my mother if it was ok for me to come in and listen. When I was old enough to start lessons, at school, I actually started on clarinet for a few years but always loved the sound of the sax. I'm still maybe and intermediate player on alto and tenor. I am, however, taking lessons from a professor at the university that I'm attending as a senior, (I'll be 70 next month) but he has helped me much. I hadn't played in over 40 years and he commented that after 6 months of playing again, that I had really mastered my sound, which he said usually takes 2 - 3 years usually. I am trying to continually learn and get better. I have a bunch of real good bands that even allow me to sit in with them for a few tunes. I am honored that they allow a rookie, like me, sit in with them!

[@Artepavordno]

I have been in love with the saxophone sound for past 30 years and I want to be able to create this amazing sound myself....

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Wow, you should definitely start Petra! If you decide to get a sax we can help you get up and running quickly.

[@hendelyurii2559]

I started on alto about 3 years ago. It was a hard decision to make, as I had literally zero experience and knowledge, so I took a cheap Chinese horn, which eventually turned out to be pretty good. Now I switched to tenor and I don't regret. I was inspired by 50-60 jazz stuff mixed with modern beats.

[@anthonywanga59]

I was first atracted to the saxophone by the intro of the song baker street but after buying my first alto saxophone I started listening a lot to Dave Koz who was recomended to me by a friend and class mate and music teacher.

[@cidananda3091]

...when I was young, I heard and saw for the first time a soprano sax played by Sidney Bechet. I was so much intrigued, that I ended up learning clarinet, then soprano sax. I finally added an alto sax inspired by Paul Desmond and Cannonball Adderley.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Three awesome players to be inspired by there!

[@genekinde1193]

Tried learning sax for school when I was young. FAILED MISERABLY! 50 years later, I thought I needed to try again. Playing guitar, bass, and banjo ect., helped alot. Used the Sax School locker at first, and yes, quick progress and great fun. Now a card carrying member of Sax School and enjoying my success in learning the sax. Thanks to Nigel and his team for all the support.

[@lucasyutzy3779]

I haven't started playing yet I'm still considering it. But Duke Silver from Parks and recreation is what inspired me to learn the sax

[@kartikeyasharma1444]

The Midnight. The saxophone solos in their synthwave music sounds amazing. That’s what inspired me to start learning.

[@paulready8897]

Very nice video, lot of useful information. I’m in my 60’s with no music background, and after watching a high school band play and they were having so much fun playing and dancing while marching, I got motivated to learn how to play. Was researching instruments and was undecided between flute or sax, I’m leaning toward the sax. Now I am undecided between the alto and the tenor sax. I like the sound of the tenor, but I like the price and manageability of the alto. Thanks to your video I may rent an alto for a few months to see if I like it, then purchase one or the other. Been looking at Yamaha and Selmer models, but there are too many choices. Would love to see a video comparing the different models with pros and cons of each.

[@weahidol]

What inspired me to learn the sax is rarity of it at concerts. I also love the sound of a sax, it inspires me to worship more

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

We definitely need to see more saxophone at concerts! Great to hear you are playing.

[@joycefredison8811]

I was given a tenor sax as a Christmas present. I never really thought of learning to play one. I love the deep sound, though.

[@brindaslesvaches]

Mr. Magic convinced me to start and I'm gonna start in musical school next week

[@belibeki]

I started to play clarinet, in primary and secundary music school. Before ten years ago, I began to play tenor saxsophone, and played it occasionaly, just learned basic steps, and four years ago I join the music bend, played a lot, and my sax playing become much better. Now I play clarinet, tenor sax, and Venova Soprano.My favorite song is "Girl from Ipanena" by Stan Getz. I would like to express my gratidudes to your sax school, that gave my very useful tips on how to improve my sax playing. Thanks a lot! :D

[@eleanorphunk]

i've always loved the sound of the sax since i was little, but my mom made me play piano! some of my sax inspirations are pick up the pieces, and the solos in sara smile by hall and oates // reminiscing by little river band // smooth operator by sade - among a ton of other songs!! i think i'm gonna go with the alto, thanks for the video!!

[@chukwumasaulanozie1989]

Kirk wahlum inspired me to play sax, he's a sax genius.

[@CoolDaysEnd]

Great video! Thank you!

[@dj_deewayne9595]

I started playing the Alto (still a beginner after 3 years.. I don’t play everyday) I’m in the process of purchasing a Tenor saxophone.. the thing that made me want to learn how to play the saxophone is the sound of the Tenor sax.. it just touches the soul

[@waeleshaal1929]

I love the sound of this instrument since I was kid . I tried to learn it but as it wasn’t possible to have one that stopped me , but I had the opportunity to have an alto couple of years ago but can not practice enough because of being busy and kinda old

[@MrQmason]

Grover Washington, Jr, David Sanborn, Ronnie Laws,Tom Scott, Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, Jay Beckinstein, Najee and a host of other sax players inspired me ...... :)

[@lilyshughart3965]

I was inspired to start playing tenor sax because I have a love for jazz and I enjoy the deeper sound of the tenor

[@gaztidd9186]

In the late 70's a band the Rezzillos did an instrumental track called "20,000 Rezzillos beneath the sea" which was actually based on the "William Tell Overture" (the theme from the Lone Ranger) played on tenor sax....the first time I heard it I was addicted....then I heard Boots Randolph play "Yakety Sax" and I was sold....I tried to learn then but never got round to takin a lesson (on £23 a week I couldn't afford it) and there was no internet so I failed miserably......so now at 57 I'm having another go......with the help of KZbin and your good self I'm feeling more confident this time round....keep up the good work Mr McGill you're doin a grand job.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Awesome. Great to hear my lessons are helping you with learning. I’ve got a few Boots Randolph lessons in Sax School. Have you seen those?

[@solartrondidactus]

I saw the saxophone poster in my 6th grade band class and thought is looked the coolest.

[@aldoguerrini277]

Gerry Mulligan & Paul Desmond on old 78/33 rpm from my dad, played on a old grundig valves player ...

[@marcbohets6671]

I started learning music when I was about 18, and I specifically wanted to play the tenor as I was inspired by the great fifties and sixties rock & roll bands like Bill Haley, Chuck Berry. Now, after a long break I transitioned to bari because I like the low power more. And I can still play it in tenor rock & roll style. I agree that the especially the soprano is best avoided by a new player, in my concert band there are 3 students that started on the soprano, they all struggle very hard to play in tune and often the conductor asks that only one of them plays because if they are playing together it is so out of tune.

[@jazzm45]

Oh wow ... I first fell in love with the saxophone ... when I heard Dexy’s midnight runners song Geno ... I started on Tenor but found I was listening more to Charlie Parker and Cannonball Adderly so soon switched to an alto. I also played soprano for a while I love the sound of it. I did stop playing for about 20 years unfortunately but this year at the age of 52 I’ve got back into the alto. And been practicing like crazy and I’m loving it. Have felt like a beginner again but. I’m having great fun. And hoping to join a band later in the year when all this craziness is over.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Great to hear you are back playing again! Cannonball Adderley is one of my heros too.

[@danielcohen227]

I started to play sax because of your bari sax solo in st Thomas.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool!

[@finnbwell6596]

I became interested in the saxophone several years ago when I was at a Kenny G show the sound was just hypnotic so then years passed and I heard of Candy Dulfer watched some of her videos the one that got me was Lily Was Here , that hooked me i purchased a Mendini tenor Sax and off im playing not very good as of now looking to make a whole lot better progress

[@stevie2673]

been wanting to pick up sax for a while but the Eddie Lockjaw Davis and Johnny Griffin sessions have really sealed the deal for me.

[@ohhimarc6192]

My saxophone is arriving tomorrow, and i can't wait! The song that got me interested in learning saxophone was "Biji" by Sonny Rollins.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool, lovely tune. Have fun with your new sax Marc.

[@weahidol]

Where did you buy it from...

[@ohhimarc6192]

@@weahidol I bought mine from Thomann :D

[@karlfriedrich1369]

What inspired me was: I used to be a metal head but then I kinda got bored of it when I was 13. After it I discovered marvelous artists like John Coltrane and fell in love with jazz mainly bebop, now I’ve been playing sax for 7 years and I love it.

[@billdavies6158]

What inspired me was Candy Dulfor and Dave Stewart playing lily was here.....blew me away.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Fantastic Bill. That's a legendary track. Check out my interview with Candy here: saxschoolonline.com/articles/candy-dulfer-interview/

[@stevepovey2489]

I bought my first sax, a Yani T800 in (I think 1982). I was already playing guitar in a band and I had 2 reasons for wanting to play sax: 1. Some of the strict tempo stuff was boring on Guitar 2. Ska was popular I had a friend who had a music shop so he got me the sax at trade price. It arrived on the Tuesday and on the Saturday I played 'Just a Feeling' by Bad Manners at a gig. It was a bit out of tune of course but it was the start of my sax career. A few years later I was offered a Yamaha YAS23 for £100 so I bought that too. Sax was only really a second instrument but it always added another dimension to the band when we played something like 'Smooth Operator'. I left the band last year though and am now getting a bit more serious on sax. I upgraded my alto earlier in the year when I bought a used P Mauriat 67. I am now seriously thinking about a Bari.

[@ernestwhyte7536]

I love jazz music and I love the sax tune. Got inspired by Kenny G so I started on the alto sax even though I enjoy the sound of tenor better. Today I play both but most especially the tenor. Looking forward to playing the soprano sax. I really love the bent soprano sax.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool!

[@keefieT]

My inspiration was the sax playing on 8o's jazz funk disco tracks. Ie:- Arthur Adam's You Got The Floor, the Sax solo is brilliant

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool! I’ll have to check that out.

[@warrensledge8240]

I always loved the saxophone. In the 90s the was a album that was call heart of the saxophone. That album was awesome

[@ananddesai2010]

Explained very nicely. I started with Alto @ 2 years ago. Also started to learn clarinet @ year ago and more finally started with trumpet ( that was my inspiration actually).

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

That’s interesting Anand. Three instruments will keep you very busy!

[@ananddesai2010]

@@McGillMusicSaxSchool Thank you sir. A very small doubt whether the embochure as required for trumpet and while practicing for achieving endurance for trumpet with the pedal notes etc.,does it affect Saxophone playing and it's embochure. I was not able to find a reply to this

[@BigDog-vg8op]

I am now 70 years old. I fell in love with the Sax when I was VERY young. I was raised in a suburb of Detroit Mi. - which means that I heard a lot of soul music & some rock. While at a friends house when I was 12 - - I heard some Sax music that made me fall in love with it. It was Ace Cannon's - "Tuff Sax" album. WOW - I liked it so much that I asked his parents if I could buy it from them. They said yes - but of coarse - I had no cash being 12 & all - so I worked for them ( after school & weekends ) for 2 weeks. I wore that album out. Till this day I not only remember most of it - but can still hum pretty much most of the album. Because of dental issue's - I could not play the Sax - so I learned to play guitar instead - which I still play to this day. I have had quite a few bands over the years - an always insisted that we have a Sax in the band.

[@benderbendingrofriguez3300]

What inspire me to learn how to play Tenor Saxophone was... The Pink Panther theme.

[@richardpassman6775]

I love the tone of woodwind instrument. Started on clarinet but 6 months in, I realized the difficulties associated with clarinet as a starter woodwind. I'm 73 yrs old and have some hand issues which made it difficult to get to and cover whole holes completely. I am switching to sax and feel that some of the clarinet difficulties will be mitigated although understanding each instrument presents different challenges.

[@lilredvevo5126]

Avery Dixon inspired me to play the saxophone now June 14. I’ll be getting my tenor saxophone and I’ve been playing for two years going on three

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

That’s Awesome!

[@orobinson3256]

I played the alto 20 years ago for 7 years. I decided to start playing the drums afterwards. I chose to start playing again and purchased my 1st Tenor.

[@MrSafep]

What inspired me to want to learn Sax? I just love the sound, it's an instument where you can express your every emotion, you can just get lost in the sound. Obviously listening to great players just messes with my head, wanting to be as good but knowing they have run the race to get where they are today. I've wanted to play since I was 18 but just couldn't afford to do it expecially with a young family. I'm now 62 and about 6 months in, started on an old Alto borrowed from a friend and recently just purchased my Jean Paul Tenor Sax, I love it. I'm just about to get started on your 14 day free tryle and will then be joining Sax School

[@abrogard142]

what inspired me? Rudy Pompelli in rock around the clock.... never got near a sax for donkey's years after but the idea was always there...

[@amosblackmore1]

Manu Dibango is my favorite sax player! Great video Sir! Thanks!

[@NV17WA]

I got inspired by Baker street and more recently by destination unknown, ;) hoping one day to be able to play anything on my Alto.

[@t_plauche]

What made me want to learn the sax? One man. Duke Silver.

[@doktorjoerg]

When I started playing saxophone, I had a lot of great inspiration from my youth. Loads of music from bands/artists like Supertramp, Foreigner, Billy Joel and many, many more. It was only after starting to play the sax, that I realized I had all the before mentioned sounds in my head. But the more I do appreciate them today. And, of course, there's one classic sax tune, that probably most people know - Yakety Sax by Boots Randolph... Well, if that isn't reason enough to start playing... Btw: I play tenor sax. And recently I picked up soprano, too.

[@rayopeongo]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYHapH6wjNGcb5Y

[@gratitude1450]

Thank you very much for your explanation.i love saxophone,coz I feel emotional and feel divine.pls help us to learn faster.

[@lycanthrope1388]

Steve Mackay on The Stooges Funhouse album, The band X-ray Spex, and that one scene in the film Roadracers

[@gatornade38]

Q: What inspired me? A: The 'Mario Kart' lick

[@traceymaragh7507]

Also loved the sound of the saxophone. I used to say if I had my time again I would have taken up playing as a kid at school, my age when saying this was 47yrs. My late husband bought me my 1st saxophone and at the age of 48, l started having lessons and loving it so much xx

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Great to hear that Tracey!

[@traceymaragh7507]

Forgot to say that I’m learning with Alto Saxophone xx

[@worldofeliezer6804]

At first I started with trumped but the my friends started playing saxophones and my brother got me to play one's now I want to play

[@vinnd2163]

careless whisper and latest trick is what got me to learn

[@MattVince22]

For me, Leo Pellegrino makes me want to learn to play the Saxophone and mostly the Bari. The guy is amazing on all points. Not a traditional pick you might say, I am okay with that. He can produce sounds that I never heard before and his rhythm is amazing. Not sure how you can learn to play brasshouse, but that's what drives me. The bari saxophone is so expensive though, I might start with the Tenor to see if I like it first.

[@jayjayjones2866]

man ik you said that two years ago but I am in exactly the same boat, difference is I plan on getting an alto. how did it go for you if u don't mind me asking

[@tangohfon8361]

I am inspired to start learning the sax because of the uinique melody that comes from it whenever the intrument is played. The sound from the intrument swirls me. i want to play music on the intrument like a pro.

[@jamesbrommage63]

I was inspired by the late, great Paul Desmond. I love the Alto!!

[@marcowenzel8889]

I started playing music with the clarinet. I like the low notes on clarinet (from c down to e) most. Tenor Sax is one octave lower than the clarinet and in my opinion the coolest of all 4 kinds. the low notes sound so great, but also difficult to play on sax.

[@cjsamtab7]

Grover Washington Jr. back in the 80s, and Men at Work. Picked up the Tenor in 1979. To date (with Yamaha 62 - Soprano, Alto & Tenor), my influence is Eric Marienthal.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Nice one Carl. Glad you like your ‘62’s. I’m a fan myself!

[@davebrubeck1489]

Glenn Miller, Johnny Hodges and those that played similarly on all those 1940 - 50s film noir soundtracks.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Love it!