Saxaphone reeds

[chrissie_rob]

I've just started learning to play the alto sax, and seem to be destroying reeds very quickly. I'm using a strength 2, but wondered if I should be using something thicker. Could someone help me out please?

[mibn2cweus]

Not knowledgeable about this but I believe that a dry reed is easily damaged. Breathing through the reed before allowing it to vibrate may help to moisten it. More research along this line may be warranted.

[Hawkwalk]

The rule is the higher the number the harder the reed. So you could try a 2.5 but as a beginner it is better to use a softer reed.

You could try a better quality of reed. Your music shop will be able to help you.

Also when you say you are destroying them, what exactly do you mean. It could be that you are not positioning your mouth properly and maybe pressing too hard.

[Hawkwalk]

Just read post above about moistening the reed. I always used to put the reed in my mouth for a few minutes to moisten it and then wiped it on the back of my hand to remove excess saliva before putting it on the mouth piece.

[chrissie_rob]

thanks for the answers. when I said destroying, I meant that the top edge has bits out of it. I do moisten the reed, so I think maybe I'm not positioning my mouth properly. I'll have to keep on trying!

[~max~]

Are you maybe placing it too far from the the tip of the beak? It should be almost aligned with it, only a fraction of a millimeter beyond. Don't know if I explained it properly, It's not my first language and I've never talked sax in English! lol
You could always ask your teacher if he thinks you're doing something wrong?

[keenafree]

I played the clarinet for years and have a few further ideas on your problem...
- You may be biting the reed, which would cause damage, especially if your reed end is not in the correct spot. You probably need to position the mouthpiece a little further in your mouth.
- Sometimes the end of the reed warps a little, due to getting wet and drying repeatedly. Try holding the reed in your mouth for a minute before you put it on the mouthpiece. Then, if you can find a small mirror that's a little bigger than the reed, place the damp reed on the mirror. Place the reed with the flat side down. Lightly press the reed to remove excess moisture: place your finger on the bottom of the triangular shaped cut portion and pull your finger towards the tip of the reed. Make sure not to press too roughly. Hold down a second or two on the end. That should help reduce the warping some.
- Practice and experience will reduce the amount of reeds you use and they will start lasting longer.

[Argendonax]

The quality and the size of the reeds matter a lot. You should ask your shopkeeper about the durable reeds in the market.

Also, the reeds should fit your playing style. Sometimes musicians are not able to make a good choice for themselves and therefore, end up learning the wrong method of playing their instruments.

I find Gonzalez reeds to be more comfortable and durable. They are of high quality and very easy-going for beginners.

Check this website: https://www.argendonax.com/category/saxophone