SOTW new member introductions, June-Sept. 2009

[detroitbrit]

Hi , Been a forum member since November 08, but never actually got round to posting anything. So when I did try, I found I was technically challenged? as I'd forgot to activate myself!.
I am an old bloke of 46 years, who decided that I'd like a challenge and picked the saxophone to learn. I have a Selmer paris SA80II, of 1996 vintage I think.
I'm a brit, and live in Detroit (hence the moniker), but for the next couple of years I'll also be living (300 days a year ) in China ,Su Zhou about 120kms outside of Shanghai to be more precise.
I take lessons in China , my teacher Deng Toa speaks very good english, which helps a lot, even accounting for the difference in teaching methods (doe rey me vs egbdf), and I have found that diligence and practice (lots of practice) is keeping me motivated.
One day I hope to be able to carry a tune without the bucket!:D

[Harri Rautiainen]

Welcome on board new members.
I trust that you will find this place worth of your while.
Please respect the rules and your fellow saxophonists. Please add your personal message here by clicking "Post Reply".
-Harri

[Bsax13]

Hi,

I'm Beth. I've been playing the sax for 5 years, mainly Baritone and Tenor. Starting in September I will be going to Humber College in Toronto for music and I figured this would be a great place to check out some tips/ideas and ask questions.

[MilanC]

Hello...
I've started playing sax when I was 10, i.e. a bit more than 6 years ago... and this year I suddenly started playing a lot more, and greatly improved after 3 years of slow progress. I started out on an Amati AAS32 alto sax (has some quirks, but all in all, is a decent horn) 'cause I was too small to play on the old Selmer SA80 II tenor we had, and switched to the latter after one year.
I've recently started building simple pvc flutes, aluminium clarinets, and two rather strange but good-sounding sax mouthpieces... I guess I do like DIY stuff...
When searching for various information (subtones, altissimo, mouthpieces, sopranos, baritones...) a few results pointed to this site, I found it interesting, so I registered.
Oh, and, my name's Milan.
:)

[NissanVintageSax]

Welcome. There is a wealth of information here. There's also some fluff and joking too, but since we play sax, and not clarinet, we're generally a little more laid back (you'll know what I mean if you ever visit a Clarinet specific forum!). Anyway, welcome again.

[theAlps]

Hi all! I am a tenor sax player since 1982 and soprano since 2001. I studied for a brief sec at Univ of Miami, then for some years at Miami-Dade Community College and then I did 4 years at Berklee College of Music. I have toured all over the Europe and South America as a sideman and played a lot of jazz gigs with my group in Miami, Boston, NYC, Seattle. The last 10 years tho I have gotten more into composition and now I mostly write orchestral music on the computer. Pushing hard to make a living from it. I kind of moved away from being a professional tenor player because I am a real Trane-head and doing all those barmitzvahs and weddings was really tearing me apart. But I still play a bit when I can and I record tenor and soprano as much as possible. Thanks for having this great forum! I look forward to some nice discussions!

[2old2randr]

Hi all,

I have been playing the sax for about six months and I started just before my 49th birthday. Too late, I know but my younger days were spent playing guitar and saving money to buy a nice tenor :-) I am really liking it so far and once in a while, get a really nice tone while doing improvisation exercises which makes it all worthwhile.

Cheers

[Esther]

Hi, I just joined the forum. My name is Esther, I played in a bigband and a 'fanfare' orchestra in the Netherlands, that's basically a brassband with saxes. :) I played a Schenkelaars alto, YTS 21 and YTS 23, Buescher baritone and a YAS 23.
I had to quit playing because of my last pregnancy 4 years ago.

So, here we are now... Last year my also tenorsax playing neighbours asked me to fill in for them in their orchestra, as they were not going to make it to a concert. I was hooked again. I played there for 6 weeks, and then had to hand over the sax again. :(
The very nice neighbour lended me a soprano sax, (Selmer SA80II from '84,) which I had to return a few weeks ago, because she needed it for her orchestra..... I miss it!! I want (read: need!) my own sax!!!
I'm saving money now, and am trying to find out what I want.

[Milano]

Hi Everyone, my name is Kyle, and I've been playing sax for 9 years. I enjoy mostly play in a jazz quartet or quintet (with a trumpet) and I work as a session player being part of the brass sections of several ska, funk, pop and latin salsa bands, and it's a lot of fun too!

I own a Selmer Paris Silver and Gold alto sax.

Hope that here I'll learn a lot of things and share my experience with others.

[crustyjusty33]

Hi all, my name is Justine and I am not a saxophonist, but my hubby Neil is. However, computers are not his strong point which is why I am now sitting here typing this thread. We are from Liverpool and hubby plays alto and tenor - he has a Yanni 880 alto and is just in the process of selling his Yamaha YTS 62. Which leads me to ask the question, what is a G1 neck on a Yamaha YTS 62? Can anyone tell me in simple, layman terms? Looking forward to more threads, hints and tips in the future on this great forum. Cheers all.

[Maarten]

Hello,
I joined 31 of may, 25yo, playing almost 15years now on tenor.
I'm from the Netherlands, I play jazz (Coltrane addict), and in a harmonic orchestra.

I joined due to my new interest in sax tech and repair.
I'm also member of saxforum.nl

I like this forum, polite talking, healthy sense of humour most of time.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNBEm1hMTsQ
I'm the blonde one with the blue chequered blouse.
As you hear I am a great artist.

[RalphH]

Hello,

Just like Maarten, I have been active on the dutch saxophone forum saxforum.nl. I joined to meet some more The Martin players and lern more about my own martin ;)

I'm from the netherlands and I'v been playing sax for the past 10 years (9 - 19). I mostly play in jazz bands and combo's, but I also play classic music weekly. I love to play my The Martin committee alto '67, but I also play a baritone sax in one or two bands.

Greetz, Ralph

[MartinL]

Hi,

I am Martin, another old guy, been playing for three years now, very much a novice but I enjoy it. Been a regular visiter here and just decided its time to join up so HI Everyone.

I'm in England, Cannock to be exact and I would love to meet up with other players for advice and tips.

Great forum, very useful.

[green mango]

Hi there, my name is Andrew, I'm from Victoria, British Columbia and I've been playing tenor and alto sax on and off in jazz combos and ska, funk and reggae bands for about 13 years now. I'm headed back to school next year for a jazz diploma, which is why I'm on here: I'm looking to buy a relatively inexpensive professional tenor sax and wanted to see if anyone on here can recommend a good model. I'm looking for something in the $1500-2000 range...I'm sure there are many conflicting opinions on this, but any suggestions? Thanks!

[jmoen3]

Hi there, my name is Andrew, I'm from Victoria, British Columbia and I've been playing tenor and alto sax on and off in jazz combos and ska, funk and reggae bands for about 13 years now. I'm headed back to school next year for a jazz diploma, which is why I'm on here: I'm looking to buy a relatively inexpensive professional tenor sax and wanted to see if anyone on here can recommend a good model. I'm looking for something in the $1500-2000 range...I'm sure there are many conflicting opinions on this, but any suggestions? Thanks!

Welcome Everyone, Enjoy the great community!

Green Mango, be sure to check out our marketplace for great deals and also look around at the tenor, what to buy, and other sections as there is lots of great information. One on my list of tenor saxophones in that cost is at http://www.philbarone.com/sax/index.html

[greenfin1]

i am an old member and just come here after 3-5 months, currently i dont know what is happening, i was very bussy in my Character education (http://www.iamgoingtocollege.com) programs, and now i find some time to come here, so i will gona participate in here.

[Jochem]

Tell about yourself is easyer said than done..... specially when your Englisch is as bad as mine ;) I'm Johan, and I "play" 3 years Alt Saxophone, before that I could not read Music and could not play any instrument.......... I blame my mother for that.
Like most members from the Netherlands I visit www.saxforum.nl/forum a lot

[stokes8]

Hi all, this forum is super informational, I could spend a lot of time here. My name is Andy, and I live in Colorado. I played alto sax in Middle and High school, and havent played much at all since tenth grade, but upon finding a Vintage Martin C-Melody sax at a garage sale, I paid the $20 and my interest in the sax is starting over again! The sax needs work, it needs to be repadded, new springs, oil, ect... but it is in good shape. I intend to learn my sax inside and out and will teach myself(with lots of help from this forum!) how to repad it properly. I am excited for this project, and I am determined to do it with care and precision. I know its gonna be tricky, since its probably older than my Grandfather, and I know that style sax is hard to come across anymore, but it will be a fun challenge. I have already got some good advice on this forum. Cant wait to play that C-Melody......

[LAZy1]

Hi
Just joined as I need some motivation and inspiration.
Got a tenor sax just over a year ago, had some lessons and was doing ok but then the lessons had to stop and now I need some encouragement to pick it up again.
Also need some direction as to some solos / music that I enjoy enough to practice.

Picked it up later in life but not too late to learn or enjoy.

[kkevin]

ive been here for some time and i play alto,tenor, and clarinet.......yeahhhh just here for help in the older middle school years

[rockybound]

Hello! I played sax all through high school and college and professionally in the Bay Area and Denver for 14 years. Priorities changed and I sold my alto to help pay for other things about 7 years ago. Now that I'm back in a state of stability, I am going to take it up again, but on a much more casual basis. I played for years on an old Yamaha YAS 52. Now I'm looking into getting a more professional horn such as a P. Mauriat, upper level Yamaha or Selmer. My influences are Candy Dulfer, Sanborn, Sonny Rollins and Bird. I had the privilege of seeing Candy in person here in Denver not long ago and that really made me want to get back into playing again.

I hope to learn much from you all and I look forward to meeting my sax brothers and sisters out there. Thank you.

[Luigi]

ive been playin tenor for 4 years

[y7sax]

Mobile phone:
XXXXXXXXXXX
e-mail: yaroslavbursakov@gmail.com


Jaroslav Bursakov
Saxophone player.


Higher education conservatory.
I play rhythm blues, pop-jazz and other types of music; do arrangement for music in different styles.
Kindly take a look at my video and music. I am looking forward to our cooperation.
My videos: http://y7sax.narod.ru/video.htm
My arrangements: http://y7sax.narod.ru/sounds.htm

[Harri Rautiainen]

I'd like to welcome warmly all new Forum members.
Thanks for joining, :)

................

Jaroslav Bursakov
Saxophone player......................................
Jaroslav,
your post was placed here because you are as a new member introducing yourself.
As you notice, the Forum Administrator has stricken out your phone number.
I would also question announcing of email addresses.
You will be the judge of that. Anyway, the forum members can reach you via email without you announcing the email address publicly.

[ekdowlin]

Hi, I'm a tenor player living in fort myers, FL. Been playing about 20 years. I play on a yamaha yts-82z unlaquered with a jody jazz dv 10 and Alexander NY 2.5 reeds. I own a company called Soulful Horns which produces brass sections for recording artists. You can hear some of my work on Kirk Franklin's album "Hero", Fred Hammond's "Free to Worship" and Clint Brown's "Fall Like Rain". I've been reading the forum for a while and finally decided to join. Thanks to everyone who has contributed to making this a really great forum! Hopefully I can give back to the community!

[FatCatGuitar]

I just joined SOTW after spending hours re-aquainting myself with sax jargon. I played sax thru high school in the 70's, gave it up and have been playing guitar ever since. Now my daughter is starting 6th grade band this fall, so we are researching everything sax this summer and trying to get a head start. I can still blow one and fake a blues scale. Man, I wish I kept that Selmer....We're shopping for a really great student horn for her and maybe a vintage one for me. When we were at the initial band interview, I almost cried thinking about the moment in my life that I thought would never come, my child starting band.

[isabelle3]

Hi
My name is Yvonne and I am in Long Island NY.
First things first! Thanks Harri!!! for helping my registration to go thru!

I came on to register my vito Leblanc alto sax :)

[Stocker]

I'm Andy, I play tenor and I'm a music major at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. I started out on clarinet (a 1958 Buffet/Evette & Schaeffer Master Model) and decided I liked sax better. The other thing that begs for my time and money is a '77 Oldsmobile Cutlass.

Of course, I'm using a Yamaha 23. I'm looking to expand my fleet (preferably with old Martins).

However, my dream sax is an Olds Super not for any thought that it's a worthwhile instrument for the price, but because I think it'd be cool to play an Olds as well as drive one.

I also have a '68 Olds Ambassador cornet (ugly but playable, and you can't argue with free) and when I feel like blowing on a clarinet I overlook the Buffet in favor of a metal Supertone from the '20s :twisted:

[wheels410]

Hi Everybody,

I joined in April as I love the saxophone. I've been playing since 5th grade. I'm 36 now, and love playing as much as I ever did. I'm a 4th generation sax player. My mother played the sax, and on her side of the family, so did my grandmother, and great grandmother.

I went to college as a music major, but dropped out due to bad decisions about where and how I should spend my time. I'll let you all draw your own conclusions on that one.

I work at a factory and play for myslef and my family. I'm trying to learn to play in guitar keys so I can get the courage to get out and play. I live in Lincoln, NE and we have a big band that lets people sit in on the 2nd and 3rd sets, so I'll be trying that out again when they start back up after their summer break. I sat in with them before and sounded prety silly, but that's ok, they don't care. It really is a great environment that I need to take more advantage of than I do.

This forum is really a great place to visit to keep motivated, to learn, and to be involved. I try to get on every day and check it all out.

Jeff

[TenorBrit]

Hello, My names Brittany and I'm a first generation saxophone player. I love playing sac and have been playing since the fourth grade. Im only 14 now so i came here to see if i could find some assistance to become an all-state player. Im part of the TRHS band under the Direction of golden apple recipient Dr.David Eanes. I play on a Jupiter Tenor Saxophone and Jupiter Alto Saxophone(Student Brands). I would really appreciate any replies to this post. my first questin is HOW DO YOU POST THREADS?

[JayeSF]

Hi Brittany...and everyone else, too !!!!

Posting threads....easy. Just go to the forum section you want to post on...and look just above the title block which reads "Threads in Forum:"

...there is a button there : "New Thread". Click it...and you now can begin your own thread.

:D

[HDSax]

Hi Everyone

My name's Hilton. I'm a language educator in the Far East and play sax on the weekends...hope to get into a band. I played in concert bands and bigbands from high school through university. This forum looks like a great place to discuss things with fellow saxplayers. Oh, and I play a Yanagisawa S991 Soprano and a P. Mauriat 500BX tenor.

[Newfiedreams]

Hi there, my name is Dawn and I am about to purchase a Soprano sax, I've got my eye on a CE saxello with bronze finish...I used to play Alto but have had neck problems and a few joint replacements so I sort of gave up...I've been bitten by the bug again and opted for a Sop as it's lighter,[Impnt] hey ho, guess I'll find out soon enough if it's the right decision! Really been enjoying some of the reviews on here and feel like a real green horn!:shock::D Anyhoo... if goes all 'pete tong'(wrong)I can always sell it on E-bay huh? :TGNCHK:

[machado]

Hi, my name is Fábio and I am in since Feb-2009. I am from Brazil and I've been playing sax for 20 years. I'm not a professional musician but I love music.

I have an alto Buescher True Tone (1928) and I am looking for another alto, maybe an Super Action 80.

I have never buyed nothing from SOTW but I am an eBay member for long time (fabio.machado).

Thanks for this forum!

[bobcool7]

Hi,
I am Bob, and I play the saxophone. I try to act professional about it, but the people that actually practice make me look bad.
I am a regular visitor to this forum, so I figured I would get around to posting questions and such.
At Idaho State, the local environment can be limiting for jazzers, so I don't get to gig much. I am in the university bands, and some local ensembles so at least I get to play, right?
I hope to have some good discussions, thanks.

[MissPC]

Hello, I'm Wendy from Seattle, WA; Been playing the alto sax for about 4 years. (I like the sound of tenor much better, but my hands are too small to play it comfortably) Recently, I've auditioned for a local wind ensemble(played Ferling Etudes), still waiting for results though.

Also, I love jazz, especially hard-bop. Can't resist Lee Morgan and his funky-ness. =D

Thanks!

[tyl92]

Hey there,
I'm Tyler, just signed up today. I'm looking for advice from fellow sax players, so I decided to join up here.
I'm a grade 11 student in high school in rural ontario, canada.
I don't own my own sax, however, I have had the good fortune to be allowed to use the school's Selmer Mark VI. Mostly, I'm looking to get some playing advice, and help on caring for it as well.

I'm looking forward to posting here. :)

[bvaccaro]

Hi all,
My name is Brandon Vaccaro. I am mainly a composer and guitarist, though I studied saxophone for a bit during my undergraduate studies at the University of Denver. I have written a few pieces that include sax, and I am interested in networking with other performers about future collaborations.
Best regards,
Brandon Vaccaro
brandonvaccaromusic.com
mysterycabal.com

[BrunOfOne]

Hey all, just joined up. Been playing for 12 years or so. I play a Mark VI alto, and a black Yamaha Custom EX tenor. Currently lookin for my dream tenor mpc, but it's proving a difficult task...hopefully this forum can help me out

[bighorn1953]

Hello All,
I just started playing Sax last year after meeting the love of my life who plays Bass Clarinet for a couple of local bands. I decided to try and learn so I could spend time with her doing what she loves. I am a late bloomer at age 55 now, I played the flute many many years ago when I was in grade school, LOL. I have since joined one of her bands and am hitting a few notes here and there and am loving it. I have a High School music teacher giving me lessons also. I know I have a long way to go to be like the rest of the band as most of them have been playing for 40+ years, but I am encouraged by them. I chose the Baritone as I love the sound and I am a big man, and the big horn fits me well, LOL. I have a couple year old Yamaha YBS-52 with a Selmer C* MPC that just sounds awesome!! Now if I can get my fingers moving a little faster, I'll be set. Thanks for this forum, lots of good info here, lots of it is way over my head though. Kim

[Rubes]

Hey Guys my name is Josh (or rubes on the Forum) I am a senior who goes to centerville High School and I have been playing the saxophone for 8 years. my First horn was a 50's The martin Alto which I still use to this Day and my newest horn is a 1962 Selmer mark VI ( serial number is (947XX) and it is my primary horn. I have been in contact with the famous trumpet player John Faddis and may Possibly be touring with him in a few years

[dgassilem]

Hi, my mane is Mélissa, I'm 16 years old, I'm from Canada, Québec, so my english is not very good. I play saxophone for 2 years at school, but now school is finish and I can't play because I don't have my own. I want to buy one, but my parents are disagree. So I try to just don't forget how to play before restart to play and I hope it will be soon. If you know someone who want to sell his/her saxophone at a very, very, very low price (I can't reach more than 300$ so I don't think I will find something, but it cost nothing to try), tell me and I will cheek if I can buy it.

[Frenchyrjm]

Greetings,
I started playing Tenor at age 35 when I changed-in my Stratocaster and all the associated electronics back in '93. Changed my basic Yamaha for a Cannonball big bell stone series 2 years ago and loved the upgrade. I'm currently living in France after 8 years in California, and after traveling 16 months around Asia with no horn, yesterday I just got a Soprano silver monotube from Advences (new French brand made in a little shop in Taiwan) in Marseille. It's tight, plays very smoothly and has a great sound. My heart goes to Zoot Sims, Chet Baker, Lester Young, Paul Desmond, Macio Parker and Fela! Cheers to all, Richard

[xplosneer]

Hi everyone!
I'm a moderate level saxophone player at AGHS in California. I've been playing for about 5 years now. I started on Alto but have moved to Tenor. I won't detail you on the *stupid stuff* my band has gone through the past few months, but I love playing my sax and hope to keep doing so. I stumbled here awhile ago but just registered. If anyone knows of a sax model 46M, please PM me xD. I tend to be very outgoing and social but can ramble on complicated topics.
Thanks,
Steven

----------------
Now playing: Take A Look Around (http://www.foxytunes.com/artist/-/track/take+a+look+around)
via FoxyTunes (http://www.foxytunes.com/signatunes/)

[bamasax]

hello, my nam isn Sam ( bamasax ) I am an older sax player,that is new to the internet
forum. I have ben playing tenor sax for some time now , and have learned a very lot from
all of the information on sotw ,and all of you. thanks and ROLL TIDE bamasax.

[SoulFingers]

A big warm hello to everyone here. I have been lingering here in the shadows for a few years, mostly trying to learn new things. I am a 34 year old kid. I play recorders and xaphoons, diatonic and chromatic harmonicas, a little flute, but mostly Tenor Sax, and now a bit of soprano too. I am self taught, around 20 years of musical experience. I learned from a 99c Yamaha fingering chart, and used my recorder and xaphoon experience wisely to grow into the saxophone. I average 3-5 hrs a day playing, and now with the help of MusicKed software, I am learning how to sightread. I have always been a bit of a loner, but I am signing up here today, because I think this website is awesome, and I would really like to be a part of it. I have learned so much here already, maybe I shouldn't claim the self taught thing? Anyway, music is in my blood now, I feel music, and I love to improvise, and let my hands go free when I am playing. I can play what I hear in my head, and my ear is sharp, but I am just now realizing how much I don't know about music theory, and notation, and I know being here with all of you BIG BRAINS, will rub off on me in a positive way.
Marijuana has been very influential to me, and even though I gave it up a while back, I hold firmly to the belief that I would not be here today had it not been for Mary Jane. I will never enjoy sight reading the way I enjoy being a part of the music. It is all about feel and intuition with me, but the theory is interesting too. Playing Tenor Sax is the closest thing to being one with the force (star wars geek:) I have ever felt. I only wish now that I had taken a class or two of band in school instead of playing football all of those years. What a wasted opportunity. Well, here's to making up for lost time:) cheers~

It's real good to be here everybody. I am very much looking forward to making new friends here real soon.

[KevinT]

Hi guys, I'm Kevin T. and I'm addicted to reed. (no not a typo) Well anyways I've been playing Tenor sax a little over a year, and just picked up clarinet a few weeks ago. Just wanted to finally get around to making my account on here!

[LAP13]

Just a quick hello.

Saw the forum years ago but never got round to joining.

Looks like there is a lot of resource and stuff so look forward to having a proper look and hopefully putting my bit in along the way.

Luce

[Japee Man]

Good day, I am myself, a 16 year old boy from Norway, have been playing the alto sax for ca 8 years. I am going to a music high school, and playing in the big band there. Next year I am one of the oldest there, maby I'll be lead, who knows. Im also playing in a funk band, in a school band (marching band), and in an orchestra. Yeah, I have got way too much to do, so I am using the holidays to practice alot.

[Bookwormgirl]

Hi all,
I'm from Michigan, playing the saxophone for almost 10 years now. I'm in college majoring in music education at the moment. I play a Yamaha custom 82Z alto, and I own a student tenor that at least gets the job done. I also play soprano when I have access to one. Someday I'll have the money to buy one of my own!:)

[pby5a]

Hiya All.
Been playing for a few years a few years back. Picked it up again and really loving it! Loads of jam sessions around here. I am a 33y ol' Dutchy living in the Midlands of England. I just found this forum and it looks like the biggest around, so joining seemed to be the logical thing to do!

Cu around in the various threads!

One (pronounced as ohnah :) )

PS, loving those smileys here! :lowbd:

[Bluefog]

Hi my name is Brian I'm from Ireland. I've only ever learned the tin whistle and that was a long time ago. I'm now 23 and thinking of buying and learning to play the sax. I joined this forum mainly to look for advice, I'm mainly interested in learning to play the alto sax and could possibly get my hands on a fresh second hand Roy Benson model for about 300 euro ( $420 ish). Any advice on this would be welcome.

Looking forward to some good banter

[Sokol]

Helo, My name is Matt and I am from Detroit Michigan (area). I won't be long for the SOTW forum as I am looking to sell what I have. I am looking for some information that would pertain to the value of the Sax I am trying to sell. It is a F.E Olds Parisian Ambassador Tenor Saxophone, Serial Number 0496xx. It has some dents and the lacquer is not wonderful but I just had some pads and the cork replaced (as needed). I could get some pics to someone who might be able to help me out. It still plays fairly well and I have a beat up wood case with bumper stickers on it. Any help on the value of this would be appreciated and if anyone is interested in buying it please feel free to email me at mrsokoloski@yahoo.com . Thanks for letting me in on SOTW even if for a moment. -Matt

[Sokol]

The pics of my F.E. Olds Parisian Ambassador Tenor seem to be failing, I was thinking of starting the price at $400 and the buyer would have to pay shipping. Please email me for the pics I have and If you would like more detailed pics please let me know. The neck and top part of the sax where the neck inserts lost the most lacquer due to repairs. Ships from Flint (area) Michigan, about an hour North of Detroit. Thanks again

[nogbad]

hi im pete from plymouth england, 43 year old sax music lover .i own an alto sax and have had it about 3 months still makes a sound like im spinning a cat around by its tail but i guess practice and annoying my family is what its all about.:D

[Annna]

Hey..
My name's Anna and I am almost 16. I live in Victoria, Australia. I have played tenor sax for nearly 4 years and soprano for nearly a year. I am in my schools' Senior Concert Band, Big Band and our newborn sax ensemble and love it. I am hoping to improve my improvisation skills and begin some busking sometime soon. I love up-beat/funky songs that are fun to play, not so much classical/slow.
Looking forward to learning heaps off here and sharing the same passion as others.:)

[ralphsax]

Hello people

My name is Ralph and I've just joined the Forum, I've read it occasionally and decided to bite the bullet and sign up. I've been playing the sax for quite a while but look forward to learning more about the instrument I love.
I currently play an early Selmer (cigar cutter but with a radio improved serial no) with either my Otto Link W.T or my 1940s Selmer Soloist C**. I do play Bari too, and Tenor (but not so much).

Look forward to chatting

Ralph

[paulhibberd]

Hey guys, I'm Paul. I live in Ontario Canada. I ve been playing alto sax for four years. I currently play a Conn-Selmer Prelude AS700. I play in my high schools Concert and Jazz band. I also just joined the Burlington Teen Tour Band (a big deal in Canada, their musical ambassadors). I look forward to chatting with you all later.

[cmrivdog]

Greetings, I'm Chuck (cmrivdog).I'm in my mid-50s. I currently live in the Detroit area. Just started playing alto about a year ago, after my wife took up the piano. This was after several years of violin (her) and then work and marriage. I played clarinet in High School back in the dark ages and always had the hankering for the sax.There are a lot of people like us out there, toiling in the personal private space that music practice creates. And we'v learned that the benefits of making music aren’t just for the young. We are attempting to connect with other "Mid-Life Musicians".

Currently I'm stuck in the big band era playing a lot of stuff from the real books and between lessons. Just about ready to get back into the groove, so to speak.

[swansong]

Hey all... I've been on the site since 07 and I have spent many a late night reading through to the end of incredibly interesting threads. I'm addicted to instruments but right now I feel like the tenor is my voice. Been playing music since I was six, started on piano for 7 years, then guitar and bass, then in college learned tabla, sitar, and vibraphone. I am now obsessed with irish flutes and uilleann bagpipes, and have found communities that have thousands upon thousands of ancient melodies to share...!!

ABC traditional music format (http://trillian.mit.edu/~jc/cgi/abc/tunefind)

Free sheet music on musicaviva (http://www.musicaviva.com/sheetmusic/index.html)

I always loved jazz but never felt I had the skill or talent to play it myself, how horribly wrong and foolish I was. So I picked up a tenor out of curiosity couple years ago and this forum and luckily was one of the first places I went.

Not only did I buy my first sax on sotw, the yts-62II, I was lucky to learn about mouthpiece exercises and long tones and have incorporated these into my self-teaching regimen. I started using aebersold's vol. 1 early this year and I've really taken off, it's so much fun for me. Been working on Klose exercises, and now working on bebop turnaround patterns and a few charlie parker tunes, I couldn't be happier now that I'm progressing quickly.

And then... while checking craigslist the past month for local saxes I came upon my newest love, a '67 King Super 20 (http://forum.saxontheweb.net/showpost.php?p=1185138&postcount=515) with silver neck. soooo awesome. I'm gonna have it overhauled asap, I can't wait to play her once setup properly. Already I can feel the change in my attitude while playing as the sax is melding with me, it's uncanny.

SO THANK YOU ALL FOR MAKING MY DREAMS COME TRUE...

=)

And to top it off, my wife was inspired by me (and yusef lateef, among others) to learn the oboe, so I've been teaching her to read music. I just bought her a soprano sax last month and she totally loves it. It's so wonderful learning and playing together, should be required for every marriage...

[MikeKorson]

Hey guys,

My name is Mike Korson. I'm a sophomore music major at TCU where I study with Joe Eckert. My weapons of choice are:

Tenor - Selmer Series 3; Selmer C* (Classical), Otto Link 7* (Jazz)
Alto - Yamaha Custom Z with an AL4 mouthpiece

I love reading everything on this forum.

Go Frogs!

[Howard Long]

Greetings!

I am 44, based in Central London and I'm embarking on a nearly life-long wish to play a wind instrument.

Some anecdotal history: at about the age of seven, and having played the piano for a year or so, my dear parents asked me, "What other instrument would you like to play?" to which I answered "The trumpet!". And lo, they handed me a violin and a bow. The result was not nice: other than a sound reminiscent of a strangled cat, after a few months of lessons, I horrifyingly managed to wet myself, apparently ruining my poor violin teacher's carpet. But at least that meant that I managed to give up violin.

Well, you'll be glad to know that my incontinence has been largely in remission for about 35 years, but so has my practical music experience. Realising that (a) the trumpet only has three buttons and (b) the sax has a rather more evocative feel, I have embarked on an attempt at tenor sax. After two days, I'm truly loving it.

Thank you for this website, it's truly wonderful.

Cheers, Howard

[sphynx]

Hi,

I am Ed, 25, based in Singapore. An "absolute" beginner in Sax which is why I registered here in hoping to learn from everyone else. Been reading quite a bit and vaguely understand where I have to begin. Planning to get myself an Alto Sax in the next few days, perhaps a used Yamaha YAS-52. Saw a few listings on Ebay with prices ranging from US$ 100 - US$ 500. Might post for advices if I've found any likeable Alto Sax as I am totally new.


Thanks,


Ed

[TyroSax]

Hi.... I'm Jim Bays. I have been playing Saxophone since I was 8 yaers old. I am now 43. I live in the Cincinnati area, and play regularly in the area. I studied a Northern Kentucky University, and some at the U.C. Conservetory of Music in the early 80's. I love Saxophones, and everything that goes with them. I think Saxophonists for the most part are all a little "NUTS"!! We over analize things to death. I am trying latley to just Practice my rear off, and concentrate on my playing. I have read threads here for years, but recently joined. I wish I had joined long ago. I have already met some really nice people. Thanks Jim Bays...........

[ShovinSunshine]

Hi!
I'm new!
Oh, who am I kidding?! I'm like, older than most people's grandparents' tractor.

[CanuckSaxMan]

Hello all.

I own a King S6 Soprano and a Keilwerth ST90 alto, however I want either a bari or tenor to double with my alto.

[Yanagisawa17]

Hi everyone, i'm nathan. I've read a few of the threads on this site in the past and found them very helpful, so I decided to join up and ask a few of my own questions. Hopefully i'll be able to help other people too!

Ive been playing alto for 7 years but didn't get serious about it until early last year. I'm seriously considering going to college for jazz studies.

I play a Yani A9933, Meyer 5, and V16 2 1/2s. Also Rico Royal 2 1/2s.

[wayn3r]

Greetings,

My name is Wayne, and I am from Toronto. I am currently in my second year of studies at University of Toronto for Engineering. Before that, I attended the Claude Watson School for the Arts for the saxophone. I have been playing for eight years, and am a big fan of jazz music. I look forward to participating in this forum in the future!

[livejazz]

Hello all,
I'm a highschool saxophonist who loves jazz. I will be pursuing musical studies in the near future. I have always found SOTW very helpful so I decided to join.
My setup is : 1925 Conn Chu Berry Alto m147xxx, Berg Larsen 95/2/M, Francois Louis Ultimate Ligature and Rico Jazz Select 3H reeds.

[Wubbe]

Hello

I'm Wubbe from Belgium. I am playing Saxophone for two years now, started with Alt, recently I started playing Tenor. The inspiration to play saxophone I got thanks to the band Morphine.

Sincerely
Wubbe

[Saxanet]

Hi there. My name is Cara and I'm from Cape Town, South Africa. This is my 11th year of playing the sax (I started on tenor then switched to alto). So I play tenor, alto and also soprano. I also started clarinet two years ago. I am currently studying music and also teaching sax and clarinet at a high school. So I thought that this would be a great place for me to meet some people and learn a whole lot more.

[Rusto]

Hey! Rusto here. I've been kicked out of every other forum so I thought I'd try my luck here. How DO you play the saxophone? Kidding! Been playing for 30+ years. Pretty much any situation you could name. Army band, wedding bands, polka bands, blues, R&R, R&B/funk, jazz combos, big bands, solo gigs. What am I forgetting? Not bragging, but I play a mean tambourine, too. I've made many a rendition of Folsom Prison Blues. I also teach private lessons. Signed up because I need to thin my herd. Too many horns and mp's. I used to say, "NEVER SELL A HORN OR MP!" But I've got too many that I'll never play so time to spread the wealth. Or something like that. Plus I'd like to get feedback from other teachers. Got a boy that just ain't gettin' how to play the blues. (That'll be another post.) See y'all around!

[Harri Rautiainen]

Welcome on board all newcomers. I hope you'll like it here.

Hey! Rusto here. I've been kicked out of every other forum so I thought I'd try my luck here. How DO you play the saxophone? Kidding! Been playing for 30+ years.
......................................
I checked our your Youtube video and I liked what I heard.
Let me point out the forum rules here are somewhat tighter than on other forums you've been kicked out.
Looking forward for a long-time relationship,
-Harri

[grindboy]

Hi I'm Michael,

I've been playing alto sax, Susie, for about 7 years got my tennor sex, Tallulah about 3 years ago. Been neglecting my saxes for a while due to exams and other commitments. My new years resolution for 2009 was to play Susie and Tallulah regularly again and I've kept it up so far :-)

Looking round the site it looks like I've got a lot to learn but that's what I'm here for!

[jrvinson45]

Hi!
I'm new!
Oh, who am I kidding?! I'm like, older than most people's grandparents' tractor.

Shhhh... there are several of us hiding here.:D

[Long time coming]

Hello! My name is Chris, and I've been playing Sax for 25 years. I found this forum today while searching for information on the new Sax I bought today.

I'm the father of 3 wonderful (evil) boys, and have been married for 9 years. My Saxs are a Conservarte Etude Alto (its OLD) and a Yamaha YTS-23 (the new purchase). My wife wanted to kill me when I brought my Tenor home today, and then she realized I was wearing the shirt she bought me. It says, "It's better to beg forgiveness than ask permission!"


Chris

[Long time coming]

Sorry for the double post my computer freeked out

[AaronLo]

Hi everyone.

I'm Aaron, 20 y-o, based in Malaysia. Been playing the piano and violin, now looking to pick up a third instrument. I knew I wanted to learn the sax the moment I heard Kenny G when I was little, but my parents wouldn't support me (financially) through this.

So I worked and saved for two years and finally got myself a Yanagisawa alto sax. I am here to learn from others and meet new people.

[bluesaxgirl]

Hi!
I'm new!
Oh, who am I kidding?! I'm like, older than most people's grandparents' tractor.

Ha, I like that. :)
Welcome to the forum, we need another comical relief. :D

[lowendfrequency]

Hello there fellow musicians. My name is Kyle and I'm a 27 year old from upstate NY. I've played the guitar for the last 14 years and while it's been fun, it's taken me that long to realize that it's not the right instrument for me. An artist is constantly looking for the best way to express his/herself and I've finally come to accept that the music I hear in my head is not that of a guitar. It isn't a polyrhythmic instrument at all, but instead sounds like a linear flow of chaos... much like be-bop saxophone.

So, I bought myself a tenor sax. Nothing fancy, an eBay steal to dip my toes in before I commit. I played the alto for 6 months when I was in the fifth grade, but I don't remember any of it, so that didn't help much. Well, I've had my sax for the past 4 days and I can honestly say that I comprehend this instrument and the layout and flow of note placement much better than I did with the guitar after 14 years of playing. The guitar was always this endless sea of frets and strings and felt confusing to a right brainer like myself.... but the sax... the sax is like typing. You don't look, you just find your home keys and go. I can feel myself becoming expressively freer as the hours of practice pass and it is truly satisfying.

So, I'm here because I've decided that I'm committing myself to this instrument. For better or worse, I will become proficient no matter how much work it takes. I have lots to learn and am ready to absorb. I've already found several useful tips and tidbits of info on the forums and look forward to learning from all of you.

Cheers,
- Kyle

[bandgeek11]

Hi, I'm Courtney. I'm 16-years-old and I'm a junior in high school. I live in Florida. I have been playing flute for almost 6 years, alto saxophone for a year, piano for a little less than the flute, and guitar since December. This is my first year playing alto in marching band, but I played it in the jazz band for a year prior. I have been playing flute in the marching band for 2 years, this is my 3rd. Music is pretty much my life, and I love it sssoooo much!! I am also OBSESSED with conducting haha. I am desperately wanting to be the drum major and go on to University of Florida (home of the gators W00T W00T!!) and work my magic there. :) I came here because I have been having problems with my hand and I think it might be associated with the sax but i'm not too positive. I also discovered the site when I was first learning how to play, but I waited until now to sign up. Well, as you can see, I have problems shutting my mouth haha so i'm just going to do it now lol. Nice to meet all of you.

[CNolte]

Stumbled onto this forum and have enjoyed wandering around a bit. 56 years old - have been playing for about 45 years and still don't play very well! Enjoy playing big band, some dixieland (never learned to double on clarinet - mistake) and 50s style rock n roll. Now mostly play in the local municipal band. I own a bunch of old saxes none newer than mid 60s (no "name horns) (dad played too). Straight and curved sopranos (neither in Bflat or Eflat) a couple of c melodies, four altos, two tenors and a bari. Had to sell my bass 30 years ago - darn! Mostly Buescher and Conns. Main horn is a Conn Tenor my dad bought used in 1935. Enjoy most all players - from old to new (even appreciate some of what's his name - that g guy's technical skills - the circuitous breathing is cool.)

Not sure where to pose this question - I am having a hard time maintaining consistent tone and control - I've been using Brilhart Levelairs mouthpieces for years - tried switching to a Rovner ligature - in fact I got to the forum while I followed a google on Bois ligatures. I haven't been sold on the Rovner yet - the ligature on the Brilhart doesn't seem to tighten like it did 25/30 years ago. I have tried the old hard rubber mouthpiece that has been with the horn since high school (35 years ago) but that seems so "constricting." I don't know if it is my reeds, my mouthpiece, my ligature, my horrible practice habits, or what. The horn has been gone over recently and got a clean bill of health.

Thanks for the forum and if anybody has any great ideas - feel free to share! I do apologize for being such a crappy player for having played so long. You guys (and ladies) embarrass me with your full steam ahead attitude and picking up the horn in your mid life. I am humbled.

Thanks!

CNolte

[BlazejGebura]

Hi, I`m 21. My name is Blazej. I have been playing alto saxophone since I was 9 years old. I`m especially interested in free jazz and avantgarde.

[LamenameRodriguez]

Hi everyone, I'm 22 from the UK and just started playing Alto a couple of weeks ago. Have been messing around with guitars and one or two other stringed instruments since I was fifteen and in the last couple of years been playing a little xaphoon and penny whistle from time to time

LR

[impulse]

Hello everyone,
I'm an electrical engineer in FL.
I've been playing flute for about 20 years.
Self taught, learned from Ian Anderson, Roland Kirk, Herbie Mann and Dave Valentin, etc.
I recently got into tenor sax, as I have one, and found I can play it pretty well.
Its SO much fun, I went and bought a professional model.
(hence the name impulse, from 'impulse buy' :) )
Thanks for all the useful info here on this forum.
It has helped me buy a horn, and learn some more of the technicalities of it.
~Eric

[ssmows6]

My name is David and I've been lurking around here a while. I've played for almost 15 years but haven't played in almost 5 since graduating high school. So I've decided to get back into the swing of the sax. I bought a new Kohlert (I know, an Asian horn!) alto last week and should be here tomorrow! I also have an old Buescher C melody and can play a c# and needs to be restored. Ever since middle and high school I've been rockin' the bari and haven't played anything else, alto is going to be interesting for sure. I have many awards for solo and ensemble work and im a 4 year all district honors jazz band bari player back in high school. Now that you all have had a thorough introduction I hope to learn alot here and hopefully give some good info to the community as well!

[Ams620]

Hey guys whats up, Im an upcoming college freshman at FSU. Im majoring in Music ed right now and Ive been playing alto for 7 years and tenor for 5. Im a huge fan of jazz, and I would have to say that jazz tenor is my passion. Im interested in learning from this site and hopefully adding the occasional useful fact haha. Im also interesting in seeing if this site can help me keep track of all the news saxophone wise.

See you all in the forums!

[Westerly64]

Hi, new SOTW member here. I'm 44, play alto and tenor and double on clarinet. I own a Vito tenor (late 60's vintage??? serial # is mostly rubbed off) and a '65 Selmer Signet alto (Buescher stencil) as well as a Noblet 27 clarinet. I played a lot through High School and college, in jazz, blues and rock groups, then settled down in the 90's and got a "REAL" job that got me so busy it eventually crowded the music out of my life. Now I'm trying to get my chops back to some resemblence of what they once were. Hope to be playing in a couple of amateur community bands and wind ensembles this fall!

I'm a huge fan of Ernie Watts, Bobby Watson, Sonny Rollins, 'Trane, Michael Brecker and Art Pepper.

[ParrotTheLegends]

Hi, I'm Sebastian. I've browsed this forum occasionally and decided to join. Lots of interesting info here!

I'm almost 18 and have been playing sax since age 11, tenor since 13. Just graduated high school, where I played in the school jazz band but eventually quit to play in local honor bands. Now that high school is over I'm finding much more time to practice--10 hours a week instead of 2. I've studied with a few players here in the Portland metro area, including John Savage, Warren Rand and Renato Caranto. I primarily play tenor but occasionally double on soprano for ensemble playing. Maybe I'll learn flute at some point too, I really should. I don't plan on playing music professionally, but I may minor in jazz performance in college because of my jazz scholarship.

See you all on the forum!

[tennorcrazy]

Hello all!!!!Been playin since age 7,did the music school thing.Played out for a time then settled down to what passes for life.Still play as much as possible,2 different groups,like bowling night.Been outta the loop for years.thought this would help me brush up on products.Lookin to play out again .Have been scouting musicians in my area Philly!!Was also wondering anybody know Marshal Taylor??Studied with him in college would like to see him play again.Well thats all for now.Any Philly bassed cats hit me up we should jam.


tennorcrazy
tc:D

[rodmallia]

Hi everyone, 27 year old ex-Tenor player from Malta (EU) who misses his sax so much that he is thinking of getting one again ... hopefully in the near future (funds permitting).

Stumbled on this site while doing some research on horns and I must say, I'm impressed. Great informative site and moreover, I love the attitude of everyone in here. It's nice to have experienced players sharing their knowledge and words of wisdom with the newbies and the not-so-experienced.

:)

[andrewmoquin]

Hello everyone!

I'm Andy and I'm also a newbie here. I hope I'll find this forum interesting
and I will enjoy my stay here. I also look forward to learn more valuable ideas
here and I may have a new set of friends here.

More power to all!

[GShinn]

Hi All. I’ve been playing saxophone for a year, after 30 years of not.

I played alto in high school stage band and my first couple years in college. I didn’t think I would or could ever learn to improvise well, and so I bailed. Every few years I’d wake up from a fantastic dream in which I was playing the saxophone on a city street—I never lost the desire.

So I’m back at it. SOTW has helped tremendously in all sorts of ways. Thanks to Pete Thomas. A sobering (and inspiring) read early on was Tim Price’s list of “Saxophone Necessities.” Learning about the circle of fifths/fourths turned out to be a really important first step, because so much about chords & progressions is easier now that I know it cold. Using the great books by Burt Ligon, Coker, Hal Crook, Hal Galper, etc.

I’ve also appreciated finding out about so many great saxophone players (beyond Cannonball and Coltrane). Lou Donalsdon, Noble “Thin Man” Watts, Eddie Vinson, and many more. YouTube and iTunes make them all accessible.

Loving my new M’ Lady Tenor (00003) from Tenor Madness.

George

[SoundCanyonGM]

Hi all!

I have never played the saxophone before in my life, but I thought I will give the soprano sax a try. I love smooth jazz and anything funky. I guess there is something about the sound of the soprano that captivates me over the alto, tenor or baritone. But I am sure I will no doubt get my hands on an alto in a few years to come. By the way, I am also learning the Bb trumpet. I find that some of the lip buzzing exercises on the trumpet helps with my playing on the sax.

As I was hunting around for information on saxophone, I stumbled across the these forum pages and I must thank you all for your valuable inputs, comments and advices. I have learnt a lot already over these last few days and thoroughly enjoyed the sharing.

As my tutor says, 'Happy playing!'.

Go SOTW!!

Gary

[olivierZ]

Hi all!
I'm Olivier, french emigrated to Pennsylvania. I used to play alto when I was younger and would like to play again, tenor this time. I found this excellent forum 3 days ago and have been lurking it since, learning a lot about the models and I know at last now which one I will buy :)

Keep on playing!

[MarianoR]

hello greetings to all I love the sax'm study lessons nos vemos

[flywithoutWINGS]

hey everyone, im celia
im a sophmore in chicago, IL and i play mostly alto sax. I own a '64 silver and gold laquered conn, a rose laquered '73-'74 selmer mark VI, and an ancient silver conn c-melody that i have been trying to get repaired for a long time now, :x . i use a selmer E soloist with a legere 3.5 reed for concert band, and a berg-larsen 80-2 with a legere 3.75 for jazz. i played in the jazz bands and high concert bands at my school, first chair in both. im also in marching band, and am relly looking forward to next school year and posting here.

[Couf Player]

Hi all, I'm a soon to be senior in High School. Been playing maybe 6 years (since 6th grade?) and get a touch better all the time (but probably not). I've been reading the forum for maybe a year now, and just got around to finally making an account.
I play alto in concert band and tenor in my high schools jazz I band.

Lots of great info here on the site, looking forward to learning more.

[bakermusic]

HI, I'm a new member who plays tenor a ot. I have recently developed lite spinal arthritis in vertebrae 6 and 7. I'm pretty sure my tenor playing is aggravating it some. I've been using a BG harness for a few years. I welcome any opinions about the most ergonomic harness.

Also, any opinions on the Aquilasax line? I'm interested in buying a c tenor and/or soprano from them. Prices are low, Web pix look nice. None are available here in NYC; Aquila's a New Zealand company.

Thanks!

Bakermusic

[Oldcodger]

My name is John and I'm from north Wales. I came across this forum while searching out information on saxaphones and think it's brilliant. Just as well because I'm chucking myself in at the deep end! At 64 and a complete novice in terms of playing an instrument and reading music i can hear a few groans out there lol. I lost my wife a few months back so I have the time and an empty house in which to practice and the mellow sounds of the sax has said "try me". So the books are on order - thanks for the recommendations and I reckon on buying a tenor in the next couple of weeks. I shall also start searching out a teacher cause, from all the threads I've read, I think I'll need one.:TGNCHK:

[chucklebee]

Hello, my name is Charlie and I am from Scotland. I used to play the Saxophone in school, and got reasonably good at it. For a few reasons I haven't picked up a Saxophone or read any music in almost 5 years, but I am very eager to try and pick it up again, and will appreciate any help I get from the people on this forum. Thank you.

[cantoni]

Hi everyone!

I dunno if I'm a new forum member, because I've been consulting this forum from the very beginning, years ago, congrats Harri, u r the man!

But I've never introduced myself here, actually I've just signed up a couple of years ago... so, here we go.

That being said, I wanna say THANK YOU SOOO MUCH to all the active members, must be around 50 of you posting and replying always, also a big thank you for all the mods, being patient to new members even if they don't follow the rules in the beginning, also I like the way you discuss... well, my intro:

I've decided to do this because I'm in NYC now, in Manhattan, I would like to do some trades, and buy gear, u know...

I'm from Buenos Aires, Argentina... but I've been living in Southern Baja California, Mexico for the last two years. I'm a working musician may I say, I'm making a livin out of that, I dunno how pro I am, but I don't care, it let me travel enough and play with other people, my music or whatever...

Also, I did a couple of trades, buying stuff from Sotw members, and they turned out to be great people too... and I have friends here, that I know personally.

Ok, I gotta now... but I'll start being more active than I've been, to show some gratitude to this great forum...

Btw, anyone in Manhattan, to hang up with? Jams, whatever... all info is appreciated.

Thanks,
D

[saxwannab]

So I am cleaning out my basement and I come across a saxophone that I had bought for my daughter. She hasn't had any interest in it since she left home 4 years ago. Scratching my head because I paid like 12 hundred for it new many years ago...I thought maybe I should give it a whirl. I cleaned the dust off of the case and set it aside to ponder later. A couple of days later I run into a guy whose son played in the band with my daughter and he asked me if she still played. I told him no and that I had thought about giving it a go myself if I could find an instructer...he thought for a moment and blurted out a name(angel music in the background). I gave the guy a call and have been under his weekly instruction since Feb 09 and have loved every bit of it. He has helped many kids over the years but I think I am one of his first adult students....its been a hoot. He's brought me a long way from Mary had a Little Lamb..sight reading at stuff he points out to several easier books that I have purchased on the Web, transposing piano to sax music. 6 months and I am playing Georgia on My mind, Crazy, King of the Road, Moon river, Hey Jude and many many others...my wife and neighbors have said that they sing along as I practice(they are too kind). Thats how I wound up here!! I have a folder labeled...When the 401 K Tanks...for my favorites...so when I retire I can open my case on a street corner and play for beer money.(kiddin)

[brittaniesax]

Hi my names brittanie. i've been playing sax for about 3 years now, starting when i was 15, though i've been playing piano since i was 10, so about 8 years now. i'm going to college for music and taking alto as my primary. i haven't been playing that long so i have many many questions that i hope to get answered.

[zappysax57]

Hello, I joined awhile ago but haven't gotten around to it. My name is Derek, and I am a student, with this being my fifth year playing. I play in 4 big bands, 3 wind ensembles, a combo, and anything else i can get myself into. I love music, and nearly everyday all day i am playing. sax is great huh?
Soprano- Cannonball Global Series black nickel Rico Jazz 3m
Alto- King Zephyr
Tenor- Custom EX Yamaha with meyer 7 and soon a Phil Barone Jazz 8 :-)

[Kuljukka]

Hello there, I'm from Finland, and I have been playing the sax for like 8-9 years. I play on an Yanagisawa 9930 alto and a Selmer 5 digit mark 6 tenor. Ask me if there's anything more you want to know.

//Kuljukka

[prenzlberg]

Hello everyone! My name is Chris and I'm very happy I found this nice forum! As a child I saw Bud Spencer playing saxophone in the movie "Double Trouble". I believe this was the moment I decided to learn sax one day. Now more than 20 years later I'm in the process to save some money for my first tenor sax and finally take some lessons. :)

[nickym]

Hi, My name is Nicky and I have just taken playing the sax for about 6 months now. I have always wanted to play the sax but was intimated by all those complicated looking keys. Anyway - with lots of practice I am managing to play some songs and getting a fairly go tone - (i think!). I found this forum to be very informative and the member very helpfull in giving sound advice.

[soysauce]

Hello my name is Jana and I've been playing alto sax for about 7.5 years. I'm a real amateur- still in high school. I play on a selmer paris 80 action series II and a Bernhard Axel. I also play piano, flute, and acoustic guitar. I like jazz and classical and everything else in between.

:)

[Aguiniga1934]

I'm Raul and i play alto sax, ive been playing for about 6 years and also beerly started playing jazz this year. I'm live in SoCal and i dont really know alot so i hope this forum can help me learn some stuff.

[alvar sax]

Hi!
I am an old Swede (soon 68) and I started playing the clarinet in 1954, bought my first tenor sax (Kohlert) in 1955, but sold it 1957 to finance a new clarinet, an SML Marigaux, still in work. Sometimes in the 70-ties I started playing flute and bought my used Gebrüder Mönnig, also still in work. In the same period I also bought an old Tenor, I can not recall the make, I bought it cheap and sold it as cheap to a friend some years later. As an 50-year present my children gave me my Corton de Luxe Tenor, and when I turned 60 I got the curved Artemis soprano. I have always been an super amateur player, playing in wind and brass bands and togther with friends in small bands - all kinds of music, but the last 10 years we have in my small village managed to collect a bunch of friends to an "small big band", where I mostly play the Tenor. A year ago I also bought a cheap old Bari which has had a tough life, and during the journey lost its idendity. I only know it is italian, and has a short name. I would be happy to find a complete list of Italian sax makers to try to find out more of its history. I have the luxory of having met a faboulus instrument technician, who made the old bari working extremely well, taking the history in consideration. He also introduced me to the Fibracell reeds, which I nowdays use for the tenor, the baritone came with a "Bari" reed, which is also workning surprisingly well. I would be grateful for information and good advice regarding mouthpieces, reeds and tuning.

[Jazz House]

Welcome everyone to the forum!!!!!!!!!!!!

You will love it here. I know I do!!!

[DubWizard]

Hey all...

I'm 23, I've been playing sax for about 10 years. I live in London. I play a Yani 900 alto and a Mark VII Tenor. I play jazz and African music - especially Ethio Jazz at the moment.

Looking forward to being active on this forum!

Niko

[The New King]

hey everyone,

my name's henry. i'm 14 and been playing sax (bari and tenor) for a year.

wow...writing that made me feel like such a beginner. (which i probably am and don't need reminding, thank you).

this forum is quite interesting. lots of good stuff here.

love,
henry

[janetones]

Evening everybody.

I'm an ex-player, hoping to become a reborn player. I've played the common four and clari and flute (and bass and alto clar come to think of it) and a few other dabbles in my 28 or so years of music. Sax fell away sometime in medical school and trying to get back to playing horn has been a long and surprisingly deep and painfully emotional experience. I would like my new horn to be a soprano (I heard a Lucky Thompson recording of Midnight Sun once and it has been under my skin for years) but, I am on a budget so I will be heading over to the soprano thread in a minute.

Just enjoying listening is something else that is coming back into my life a little stronger every day. I welcome new sounds but I am simply and ever devoted to: Sonny Rollins, John Coltrane, Stan Getz and Frank Wess.

Peace and good reeds,
janetones

[BeeChap]

Yea. I'm new. I'm an ex-lazy sax player. I'm currently a student and I've been playing for 15 years. I let my chops go by the way side after a run in with the most ruthless saxophone instructor in the universe while at college. Truth be told, if it were not for him, my eyes wouldn't be as open as they are now when it comes to the art of saxophone. So now, I'm back with my axe chopping down any and all sax demons in my path. My weapon of choice is a Selmer Paris Serie II S80. Modifications include a Selmer C* for classical and a Meyer 6m for Jazz/Blues/R&B.

In my CD case I've built a shrine dedicated to Johnny Hodges, Charlie Parker, Cannonball Adderely, John Coltrane, Grover Washington Jr., Kenny Garrett, and Mike Phillips.

AND I AM NOT ASHAMED TO SAY THAT 15 YEARS AGO KENNY G INFLUENCED ME TO PICK UP THE SAXOPHONE....as well as the fact that I thought girls liked sax players.

Now, even though I am still a young buck to most (24 y/o), I am a more mature sax player. Kenny G's biggest fans are elevators and girls only like drummers. Well, the 50-60 y/o crowd is fair game for a young sax player as myself.....................cougars, oh yea.

[Rufusax]

Hi, I'm Larry in Savannah,Ga. Been playing since 64. Gigging in the Savannah area for 11 years now. Alto: Custom Zul Tenor:54MkVI 58,xxx

[cakes]

Hello everyone!

I'm a newbie (in my late 20's from Boston) to the word of saxophones, and pretty darn stoked about it. I've been a flute player for 10 years or so and recently picked up the instrument after a bit of a hiatus. I'm surrounded by tons of musicians and recently starting playing in a more relaxed setting, trying to shift my more classical training into jam sessions and song writing. I've always been a fan of the woodwinds and saxophone was next on my list. I'm in the process of searching for my first used instrument and will post that in the "wanted" section.

I have been lurking for a few weeks, and finally decided it would be a good idea to join in; lurking always feels a bit creepy... I really appreciate all the advice everyone has to share on here. Thank you all for your knowledge and helping those of us just starting to get involved. Cheers!

~cakes

[simurgh]

Hello All,

I would like to introduce myself and say thank you to all concerned with this site. Sax on the Web is the greatest thing going on the web.

I am a late bloomer who was so lucky to have chosen the saxophone as my gateway into music. The instrument and it's history and the pantheon of great saxophonists and their music is very fascinating. I have learned so much, especially about myself, since taking up the saxophone.

I am looking forward to being part of the community here. Best wishes to everyone.

[BariSaxAlpha]

Greetings and Felicitations.

My name's Josh, a soon to be twenty year old Music Ed. student at Troy University. If you've never heard the Sound of the South Marching Band, come check us out. We will blow your face off. Now, more about me. I, like many players, picked up the sax in beginning band. I played a Selmer Bundy II for a year and a half until I convinced my director (more like nagged her night and day) to let me switch to Bari. And I've never gone back...for any significant amount of time that is. I played and marched a POS Yamaha student sax for most of that year until my parents and I got a steal on an early sixties silver Buescher 400. It is my pride and joy. I play a little of every section of a band, and because of that I had a hard time choosing between piano and Bari Sax as my principle in college...but my Buescher and its beastliness won out. That and the fact that nobody else I know majors on it, and if you ever get around to watching the Sound of the South (do it, seriously) I am the single, solitary Bari Sax that frequently outplays the Tubas. Currently I am studying saxophone under Raymond Smith, and actually taking alto lessons this semester. About a year ago I bought a Buescher True Tone C-Melody, and it very nearly keeps pace with my 400 as my favorite horn, mostly because it actually has a C-Mel mouthpiece, and I have great intonation on it...but I cannot make it my principle instrument...so...grr...But I was prompted to join this forum after a recent kick in sax research led me to find this with every search I searched. Very useful.


So...yeah, that's a bit about me. Come watch the band, and listen to the incredible intensity that spews forth from my Buescher 400/Rico Metalite combination.

[yothesaxpro]

Hello all,

i just joined this forum. i play the saxaphone for three years. i play in a band called the SCCG. we have more and more youth interested in joining our band. One thing is that our church is small not that big. i play higher than this:line6: and lower than:line0: i currently play a yamaha saxaphone (although i don't know how long it will last because the pads are old and there are a couple of dents) the mouthpiece i play is a 4c but i am hoping i can get a better one if i get enough money. So i'm hoping i will have a great time here!


thanks

[sothe1]

Hi I am new and have only been playing the alto sax. for 3 years. My grandmom bought me a used Selmer Paris super action 80 series II. It is a good sax and my mom says I can't take it to school. So I have another " school Sax." It was a rental a yamaha Yas 23. I don't like it as much. My mom says she can trade it in for a Selmer 600L Aristocrat. Does anyone know if these are good saxophones. I'm in jazz band and plain old band. Thanks!

[Devil Doc]

OK, I'll do the introduction thing here. I'm a 53 y/o retired military that has been lurking these forums for about 3 months looking for info and reading the advise posted here. I say 3 months because that's how long I've been playing the sax. Why, you ask, would someone age 53 want to start playing? Good question. One, because I love the sound, but I love the sound of the Oboe also, but my fat lower lip is better suited for the sax. Two, for my memory problems. I have a metal plate for a forehead and I decided that playing would be helpful for my memory problems. I was right on that.

Right now I'm learning on a late model, Selmer takeover Buescher 400 Tenor. I feel I got lucky finding it. I just went to a local pawn shop to see what they had sax wise and it was there for $200. I gave them $150 for it then had it re-padded and completely gone over by a certified tech. I've been pricing new horns for an Alto and decided last month to look into vintage instead and ordered a Buescher Aristocrat, 314xxx. I guess I'm serious in wanting to play.

About my user name, Devil Doc. No, I'm not satan's medical supplier. For half of my 22 year military service in the Navy I was a Marine Corp Corpsman, (medic). Devil Doc is what the Marines called us.

In the 3 months I've been lurking here, I've read and applied a lot of advice from numerous people on these forums. I am very thankful for that.

[BluesItUp]

Hi, My name is Chase and im 16 and I have been playing Alto for 4 years now and im just now switching to Tenor. I play at my church and high school but i love blues the most. I play a Buffet Crampon 400 series Tenor.

[SaxMac]

Hello all. My name is Patrick McManus. I played the Alto Saxophone from 6th grade all the way through High School. I won the John Philip Sousa award in 2004 as a HS senior at Berea Community High School in Berea KY. I played a 1970's Buescher Aristocrat though all those years. I remember a time when the Buescher was in the shop and having to play another horn (a much newer Yamaha student model). I recall it felt very alien playing this horn since it actually had good ergonomics. :) lol! I suppose I had to work alot harder to play faster and squeeze good tone out the Old Aristocrat. That may have helped me progress and become a better player too. I don't know. I took up playing electric guitar in middle school. I ended up playing guitar later in Jazz Band as well. I have a few guitars, my favorites being, my '01 American Series Strat and my '06 Jaguar Special HH. I love playing the Strat through my Hot Rod Deville 2x12 or my '72 Champ. After High School I joined the Coast Guard and didn't play the Sax very much at all. But I did manage to buy myself a Yamaha YAS 62II during that time. I'm now out of the military and getting ready to go to College, where I'll start playing Sax regularly again. I recently relocated from Kentucky to Minnesota as well. If anyone knows any good places to see good live sax music around here - let me know. Also if anyone knows any good, reputable Sax techs around here too, please inform me. I'd like the action lowered on my Yamaha sometime. I'm very new to Minnesota and the surrounding areas.

Thanks,

Patrick

[Scoots]

New member as of yesterday.

I have an ancient Vito alto (plays like mad but needs re-worked every few years), new Antigua 526-AN tenor (antique finish - KILLER tone), '62 vintage re-issue strat, 87 strat plus, a couple ovation acoustics, etc.

Haven't played in 20 years - but am getting back into the scene now that my wife and I are separating and my kids aren't so little any more that they need watched 24/7.

Wondering about mic's.... I have both SM 57 and a 58. I'm thinking the 58 might be better for the tenor....

[Flautist48]

Hi My name is Lynne and I am actually a flautist but got an alto sax on long term loan which I am hoping to learn so that eventually I can "double" in the pit! Mind you the way I sound at the mo a pit is probably the best place for me....squeak city or what!!!!

[banesbane]

hello all, just joined today, my name is Jonathan and I live in Davis California. I play bari in our school jazz band, but my main instrument is tenor which I play in our school symphonic band and my private instructors band. I play on a yamaha custom Z and also have a unison S400 that I use at school tenor wise. I don't actually own the bari I use but it's an intermediate cannonball model that has the best tone and must uncomfortable thumb rest I have ever seen in my entire life.

[Brandon]

Hi, my name is Brandon. I'm from Georgia, USA. I was directed here by an old music instructor. I've been playing saxophone since sixth grade, and am currently first chair in the GYSO Jazz Ensemble, as well as my high school's wind ensemble. I'm also involved in marching band, so a decent amount of experience for someone my age. I play alto, and I wouldn't have it any other way. I love this forum- It's extremely informational.

[Flemming]

I am new to saxophone ( and member of this forum) and purchased a Yamaha (275) student tenor sax 5 months ago. I am selftaught guitarist and bass player and is excited about the new challenge both in terms of a new instrument and also the music theory - I regret that I did not commence on that many years ago - It is fantastic - However I feel that I am not getting the sound I would like - less woolen and muffly in the low register but probably is it a question of muscular building and embouchure - I am using an Otto Link 7 metal and have been trying many different reeds - at this moment I settled at ZZ 2 which for times being seems to work - I need some advice on selecting reeds for the mouthpiece?
My goal is to get a unique sound and expression on the horn before i turn 70 and looking forward to the benefits of the sax forum.

[ldaniels27]

Hello All,
My name is Lindsey and I'm a music education major at the University of Southern Mississippi. I'm a sophomore this year and I study under Dr. Lawrence Gwozdz. I've been coming to this website since high school, but I just now registered. I own a yanagisawa 991 alto and a Buescher "Big B" alto. I play a meyer 6m with the yani and a rascher with the "Big B." I hope to meet many interesting and insightful sax players here. :)

[SimSaxMan]

Another Oldie that now can't let go.
A sad attempt with an Alto 45 years ago let to a love affair a few years ago with an Yamaha Tenor, YTS62 and now to a brilliant Jazz teacher that has kept me inspired.

I also had problems about a year ago with the Forum but now I'm activated and hope I will contribute here one day.

Sim
Williamstown
Australia

[Kenobob82]

Hi there. I joined so you sax pros could shead some light on me about my sax i obtained from my uncle. Sorry about he multiple postings. Anyway, My name is Bob and I reside in Kenosha Wis, some of you may know thats where Lebanc was is located, so yeah thats my intro, thanks

[ChiTownJazz80]

Hello everyone. I've been checking out the forum here and there for the last couple of months and finally decided to become a member. I'm looking forward to having some good discussions and being able to come here in case I need some help with something on my horn. I play a King Super 20 tenor SN 385XXX.

[Rackety Sax]

Hello everyone. I've been checking out the forum here and there for the last couple of months and finally decided to become a member. I'm looking forward to having some good discussions and being able to come here in case I need some help with something on my horn. I play a King Super 20 tenor SN 385XXX.

I have this funny feeling I'm being followed...

[PigFat]

Hey,
I'm Ryder. I first started playing tenor when I entered high school four years ago. I've just graduated from high school and am heading to University of Victoria to study economics. I hope to keep up playing through these years, and am looking forward to finding some people to jam with once I get to school. I played a school jupiter for my past couple of years, and just bought myself an old Conn stencil horn which I now love after trying out and searching through many horns after two years. Her name's Mabel.

[VintageSaxGuy]

Greetings fellow sax nuts,

I've been around reading posts for a while, but I finally took the time to fill out the registration!

I am a former music major who has played mostly in dance band/jazz/big band settings, and I have been adding new axes to my collection whenever I can for a few years, so I have a few! (sop, alto's, c-mel's, tenor's, bari's, bass)

[Sam Spade]

I'm 27 and I play the guitar, but not very well. When I try to play solos I was told "try to emulate how a sax player would play it". It made me think, why not play the sax, then? I've always liked the way a saxophone has sounded as much or more than a guitar, so I guess I'm going to give this a try too.

[kolin]

Hi,

I'm Colin -had to use the K as the C was already taken. I think I said hi back last year when I posted for the first time, but I'll say hi again as it's been a while.

About myself, not much to tell. I live in the Basque Country in Spain, am 48 years old, am currently "in between contracts" - or out of work, am married and was born in England. There is an annual jazz festival here, The Getxo Festival, and so there is something of a jazz scene. I would like one day to be good enough to play at one of the gigs, that would be fabulous, but I won't hold my breath!


Most importantly, I play tenor sax, or rather I am learning tenor sax. I am lucky enough to have the use of a storage room under a big block of apartments where I can do mouthpiece exercises without it causing me to be brutally murdered. I am improving, though it seems that I will have to get worse before I get better. Maybe in another five years I'll be somewhere useful.

Enough already, but I do have a question which I would greatly appreciate being answered. I am going to buy a new tenor - a Mauriat PMXT-66R UL. I already have a Yamaha YTS-275. I would like to sell the Yamaha to help fund the Mauriat, but I have been told I should keep the Yamaha and use it with the band, because it's inadvisable to use the Mauriat in a street band. I could do with the money, but I don't want to damage the instrument. Do I sell the Yamaha? I think it's unlikely that the odd bit of rain will depreciate the value of the instrument by more than the 500 Euros I should get for the sax. Any opinions welcome.

I'd like to say thanks on behalf of all the lurkers out there that get such a lot of great information and encouragement from everyone who contributes in the forum.

Thanks, now I'll disappear back to the shed.

Regards,

Colin.

[yoko102308]

Hello There~

The name is Dijah. I'm 15 years old and a sophomore in high school. Been playing alto sax for almost 3 years. Started out on a Vito named George and then switched for a Jupiter- name George Jr.. I also own a Bundy Alto Sax-named George III. I'm pretty sure the Jupiter is a beginner model but I love both greatly.

I've been in marching band for two years and I love it more than anything. Right now I'm prepaing for honor band auditions and considering applying for the Jack Kent Cook Young Artists Award.

Um..I dunno what else to say..er, my schools them for this years marching show is Carlos Santana. We are playing "Everybody's Everything", "She's not there". and "All I Ever Wanted". I even have a solo in "She's not there"!! I am really happy because I never thought I would have gotten a solo & I shall sax it out for those shifty-five amount of measures.

Hope to talk with everyone more!

[Moanin]

Hey everyone, my name is Sean and I am a Music Education and Music Composition major at Elmhurst College near Chicago. I play bari in the top jazz band, a jazz combo, and a sax quartet. I have also played soprano and alto in sax quartets. This year, I am also playing bass clarinet in the Wind Ensemble and flute in the "tech" band. I found this site while searching for bari mouthpiece reviews and discussions. I figured I might as well join in case I ever have anything important to contribute.

[BClem]

Hello all, (hello walls - hello, hello, hello, hello...)

Been around a long time and playing a woodwind has been a joy. My parents bought me a clarinet when I was in the third grade and enrolled me with a private teacher. - (just one of the many reasons that I love and miss my parents - I'm now 61 years old) They continued to encourage me through the years and recitals... and we switched to other instruments along the way. This particular teacher played the oboe so talked my parents into that one too. He had me make my own double reeds! Then the bassoon (obo is more fun to play), then the alto sax (which was my idea), then the tenor. For a while I had to have any and all of these instruments ready for this teacher to take up on….! He drove a Studebaker Golden Hawk and thought he was all females’ dream guy! Takes all kinds…

Anyhow; I still play as much as I can - still work - and I'm still buying instruments. Just made the happy purchase of new a Reference 54 tenor which is a good solid, no frills instrument - plays very nicely. I keep it close to my heart!

I've been in and out of bands for many reasons such as a tour of duty in the US Navy - played overseas in the 'Med' too! We had a thirteen piece band when I was just out of high school and had a blast. We played around the Richmond,Washington DC (Georgetown) Baltimore area during the mid 60’s - but we all went off in different directions as time went on. The good old days: the organ player had a Hammond dual keyboard with two Leslie speakers that we lugged around and the drummer seemed to be always buying a new, larger floor tom for his Slingerland set. Playing tenor sax has been my basic joy in life.... I’m no fantastic player but can still have a hell of a great time!

This is a good forum. I have frequented it many, many times and read some very enlightening information. I hope to be around with you good folks for a spell, so maybe I can pipe in once in a while....Thanks for that opportunity!

Thanks very kindly,
Bill C.

PS. I posted a query in the 'lounge' (moved to "the Band") for some deliberation that I have been having of late... minor problem and not too serious. Interested in what folks here may have to say about it….

[Shaneygrog]

Welcome to the forum BClem, it's fun for all to read and share, including you. I am 40 myself and have only been playing this year so I know little about saxophones but prehaps know more about related subjects and post my opinions here and there. It sounds like you have a lot of experience compared to me and compared to many others here as well so feel free to share what you know. I hope your spell here is a long and fruitful one.

[RoseB]

Hi,

Have been reading here for a while and was fascinated and impressed by the amount of knowledge shared on these forums, can't wait to get involved! :)

[Saxman92]

Hi all, I got involed because I have a few saxophone questions and such. Im an upperclassman in high school right now, and play in The All State Jazz Band (first chair! Best out of the whole state! WOOOT) and play for a few combos...im looking at Professional Alto Saxophones that are under 3300 dollars...new, old, vintige? I dont know...my alto for ten years so far has been the YAS 23, but now I've reached a new playing field...and find myself in need of a better horn...any helpful ideas?
Thanks,
P.W.

[Shaneygrog]

Get involved RoseB, go for it!
Hey Saxman92 there are saxophones wanted areas where you should put your questions and then you will get some responses.

[ATcaveman]

Well, I'm not exactly new, but I figured a 5 year hiatus calls for a "hello."

So,

Hello.

[Harri Rautiainen]

Well, I'm not exactly new, but I figured a 5 year hiatus calls for a "hello."

So,

Hello."It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found."

[anjis]

Hello all,
As a saxophonist I am a begginer, but I have got some experience as a bass player.
I decided to register because i find international communivcation and experience exchange very usefull. Once i've started reading educational material in english, i've understood that there are very many ideas, solutions that have been in practice for along time abroad and seem new to our saxophonists just because of language barrier. So I'm kind of lucky guy to chat with you all.)
Thank you,
pardon my english

[Shaneygrog]

Hey anjis your english is fine by me and good enough for all to read i'm sure. Also i'm lucky to have people to chat to like yourself.

[AltoSaxLover]

hi,
I just joined because I have some questions about saxes which I will be posting soon. Ive been playing 4 years ad I hope to major in musical comp or performance or both.

[Beachgurl]

Hey y'all. My name's Adrienne (like yo Rocky) and I've played the sax since I was in 3rd grade all the way up until I joined the Marine Corps. Now that I'm out and finished with college, my dear husband decided to buy me a brand new alto for our anniversary and I'm excited to get back into the swing of things. I've never heard of the brand he bought me, a P. Mauriat, but I've found some okay reviews so I'm hoping for the best.

[ATcaveman]

"It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found."

Why, thank-you, kind sir!

[lofator]

Hi
I am new here and new to saxophone. My wife bought a 1922-29 Martin for me for Xmas, as a decoration. Started to play it and can't put it down. It is so much fun! This forum is a great resource of info (in addtion to my teacher :))

Thanks,
Jakub

[Dolomax]

Hi. Just joined. I'm from Maryland. Age 37. Playing 29 years. Tenor, alto.
Did all county and all state jazz in HS, led the jazz band in HS and college. Tons of fun. Favorite forms are funk and fusion. The more I feel like Maceo Parker, the better. My favorite jazz album of all time is Giant Steps. My favorite fusion album of all time is Heavy Metal Bebop. Favorite artists are Coltrane and Brecker (yeah, trite, I know?) Trained by the one and only Baltimore legend Bradley Collins. Don't see him anymore but he was my mentor and a fantastically influential man. Grew up on funk and fusion, especially TSU/Hank Levy jazz fusion charts.

I was a pretty decent technical player with good theory and a good tone, but I don't think I'm ultimately all that good because my improvisational skills never matched what I heard in my head. I can and could pretty much sight read most sheet music. "But can you play improv bebop?" is the functional question IMO. And the answer is, "well, eh, kinda...is it slow?"

My playing in the past 15 years has taken somewhat of a detour, I've been doing a lot of audio engineering and electronic music, only playing the sax occasionally and sometimes on stage with rock and electronic acts, so really what's bringing me back to the sax is wondering if I can take the concept of jazz fusion further into electronic jazz fusion, as straight eletronica is sounding a little tired and lacks non-contrived performance and improvisational elements, which I miss.

:)

[Rackety Sax]

Not a new member, just a new handle. I knew sooner or later I'd come up with something mildly clever in an appropriately self-deprecating sort of way ;).

[SamdaSaxman]

Hello all my fellow sax players, just joined after finding this site while looking for helpful advice online for buying a sax to get back in the mix after a looong 5 yr hiatus. Anyhow, I'm a 33-yr old Scot-Irish Cherokee Navy cook who's been playing piano since I was 6, clarinet&bass clarinet since 12, tenor sax since 15, and alto since 19. I also play drums, percussion, & electric bass, but we probably don't care as much about those on this forum. Classically trained on all my winds & piano but quickly fell in love w/ all jazz, especially avante-garde & free jazz (the weirder, the BETTER!) I hope I can learn & share w/ some of the other amateurs thru pros on this site & look forward to getting to know y'all as time goes on. Have a jazzy week all! Bebop 4ever!! :line3:

[Person056]

Hey everyone, im Andrew.

im currently a sophomore in some trashy school in south jersey with a distinguished marching band. ive only been playing sax for 4 months now. currently i play alto but id like to learn baritone as well. this is my 5th major instrument and 2nd favorite (to guitar). ive been involved with school bands or music in general for 6 years. my favorite musical genres are blues, nu-jazz, classical, and cheesy 80's rock (GnR, Bon Jovi, etc...)

i joined this forum because i have a very strong passion for saxophone. just as strong as it is for guitar. i want to learn as much as i possibly can and more about as many topics as there are. i want to learn all those advanced techniques and about improvisation and down to how a saxophone works. you can probably catch me snooping around reading about all these things and asking an occasional question until im adept enough to be adding to this site's already extensive wealth of knowledge.

[eaglespania]

Hi everyone,
may I say its a priveledge to be allowed into this forum.
I discovered it by accident about a week ago, and can't stop looking at the fantastic amount of information and help volunteered by so many.Incredible! Many thanks.
I live Sth Wales 6mnths and Sth Spain, the very unspanish bit 6 mnths.
Im 591/2years , bin into music most my life, guitar, piano and always fancied playing sax but never got round to it till about 4months ago.
I bought a run of the mill student alto with a yamaha 4c mp.
Progressing fine, perhaps should spend more time blowing than reading this forum :?
Joined because of questions instigated by probably reading too much !
Best regards to all members and look forward to poss future communications.

Marti D

[Wendi]

Hi folks, My name is Wendi, I live in Cyprus and I've been a professional singer for 30+ years.
At school I played recorder and the flute. I'm in several different outfits from pop to rock to jazz. A new band has formed and their girl singer and sax player is leaving the island, so they, half jokingly asked if I'd join and how long it would take me to learn sax.
Well, I said, 'you find me one and I'll have a go!' So they did, unfortunately it's a Stagg 77-SA, and secondhand at that. Octave key stays open, but remedied for now with an elastic band. I've read a lot of bad reviews on here about the Stagg, but surprisingly enough I'm managing so far. I guess I have a head start with my strong lungs and diagphram. C2 and up are impossible but not sure yet if that's me or the Stagg but bottom is fine if a little stuffy. It'll do whilst I find out how quickly I can pick up the fingering, techniques and brush up on my sight reading etc. then I'm after a YAS 62. Heard such good things about them. I know I'd be better to get a YAS275 to start with but money is a problem so when I buy a decent Sax I wanna go straight for the profelssional model.
Well, that's me. Thanks for the great advice so far. This is a great resource.

[heyjay]

Hi all, Jay here... yes, I am at work and secretly browsing the forum because... I AM A BORN AGAIN SAX MAN! I just picked up my first rented Tenor sax a few weeks ago and have been having a total blast with it.

Plus, I've found a new love for Jazz (I've been listening to Dexter calling all day..)

hmm.. what else, I played clarinet in highschool (Ever get beaten up with your own clarinet? I have! Glad I wasn't playing tenor sax back then...) :|

Anyways, to make a long story longer, I'm in Vancouver, BC - 30 years old - and scrapping my future 10 year mid life crisis plan (Buy a muscle car) to spend the money grabbing a less rusty horn and throwing a band together Blues Brothers style. Let me know if you want in!

So this site has already been a wealth of info and to show my appreciation, I'll try not too post too much... ;)

On a serious side, glad to be here and looking forward to participating on this forum!

cheers

Jay

p.s' I actually never got beat up by my own clarinet in school... but that would be a great story right?

[MattdaFlute]

Hi
I'm a new member from Australia. I'm mainly a flute player that holds other woodwinds. Look forward to browsing this cool forum.
best
Matt

[Shaneygrog]

Hey Matt, i'm from OZ too! I have only been playing for a while but I find this forum helpful and enjoyable. Have fun....

[OldNotGrey]

Well it's about time I joined up. Having been a semi-accomplished guitarist for many years (audiences might disagree!!) I was persuaded to take up the tenor sax earlier this year and probably qualify as a late starter. So this strange instrument with no strings has brought many questions to the fore and it is great to be able to search the forum to find experienced advice and guidance. There is certain comfort to find I'm not the only person that encounters strange sounds at various times !! Now back to some practising...

[UFTerp]

I finally got around to joining, but I have been reading the site for a year or so.

Been playing sax since I was 9-10, which is longer than I want to admit right now. This is a great place for info.

[Myaskill]

Hi! I'm an 18 year old guy from Norway. I've been playing since I were 10.

This far I've only been playing the alt sax, but I'm thinking of trying the tenor (dad's got one lying around here somewhere).

Currently I'm working my *** off to get in to the Norwegian Academy of Music, wanting to become a fulltime musician.

[T the Sax guy]

Hi all, I got involed because I have a few saxophone questions and such. Im an upperclassman in high school right now, and play in The All State Jazz Band (first chair! Best out of the whole state! WOOOT) and play for a few combos...im looking at Professional Alto Saxophones that are under 3300 dollars...new, old, vintige? I dont know...my alto for ten years so far has been the YAS 23, but now I've reached a new playing field...and find myself in need of a better horn...any helpful ideas?
Thanks,
P.W.

I play a professional antigua alto that was discontinued in the mid 90's which was about 2900 I can't remember the exact model but it has a bright gold laquer and gold keys. Hope the was some help!
-T

[Tenor Dave]

Hi all I'm new to the site and looking forward to exchanging tips and hints with all you guys at SOTW!

Regards, Dave

[BlownSi05]

Hello. I cannot believe that I am only now signing in here. Just wanted to drop in and introduce myself. I have been playing sax for 18 years now, 14 years professionally (in my eyes, if you get paid to play, you are a professional...lol). Started gigs with my father's band when I was 15 and have not looked back. I spent 4 years in the US Marine Band @ Parris Island and am a graduate of the Armed Forces School of Music in Norfolk, VA. I currently play my trusted and loved Yamaha YAS-62 alto that is now 14 years old, and am purchasing this week a YTS-875EX tenor. I am hoping to learn from the experience on this site and also add my own to the mix. Thanks and see you around!

[azgirl2006]

Hi, just joined today, but have lurked for the past several weeks.

I was a clarinet player all through school (cut me some slack!) and started learning a bit of saxophone in my last two years of high school. Enjoyed it very much, but life got in the way.

My now 10 year old DS has decided to join band, and has decided to take saxophone. He has been at it for several weeks and is doing fairly well, if only I could entice him to practice a little more. Luckily he is able to use a school instrument. I would like to buy him a horn of his own at some point, though.

I have found the beginners forum a wealth of information, and hope to find more as I search a little further.

Thank you for the information so far!

Terri :)

[vanfan]

I just joined and tried to put up a post where I'm seeking advice, but I don't see my post. Do I need to wait a day or more to be able to put up a post?

[CooolJazzz]

I just joined and tried to put up a post where I'm seeking advice, but I don't see my post. Do I need to wait a day or more to be able to put up a post?

Welcome...

No...you don't need to wait a day or more...but your first post will be screened by admin or moderators before it shows up just to insure that you're not one of the hit and run spammers that we're continually having problems with. Your post may even show up by the time you've read this response.

Edit:
Actually...after looking at your profile...it appears that you sent yourself two "visitor" messages. It looks like you were still inside your own profile when you tried to post your questions...so they went straight back to you instead of showing up on the appropriate forum. It'll take time...but you'll learn your way around.

[vanfan]

I have been away from playing for many years. And I 've got some specific questions. I was hoping to start a new thread. But I don't see how to do that. While I have your ear - I just purchases a Jupiter tenor. It has a Jupiter mouthpiece, and I have Rico Jazz 3 Soft reeds, but am having a very hard time getting anything in the lower register. Any advice?

[CooolJazzz]

I have been away from playing for many years. And I 've got some specific questions. I was hoping to start a new thread. But I don't see how to do that. While I have your ear - I just purchases a Jupiter tenor. It has a Jupiter mouthpiece, and I have Rico Jazz 3 Soft reeds, but am having a very hard time getting anything in the lower register. Any advice?

I've just sent you a private message that I hope will help you learn how and where to start your own new threads.

[Harri Rautiainen]

I just joined and tried to put up a post where I'm seeking advice, but I don't see my post. Do I need to wait a day or more to be able to put up a post?A new member's first post will go to a moderation queue if it contains any links or some watchwords. There will be several hours delay because they have to be approved manually.
(You do not believe the amount of spam posts we are getting!)


I have been away from playing for many years. And I 've got some specific questions. I was hoping to start a new thread. But I don't see how to do that. While I have your ear - I just purchases a Jupiter tenor. It has a Jupiter mouthpiece, and I have Rico Jazz 3 Soft reeds, but am having a very hard time getting anything in the lower register. Any advice?
To start a new thread: Go to the sub-forum level, e.g. http://www.saxontheweb.net/vbulletin/forumdisplay.php?f=42

Click one of the blue buttons on your left.

Welcome on board vanfan and all other recently joined,
-Harri

[BiggestFanMom]

Hello, I am new to the forum and am slightly embarrassed to say that most of this is foreign to me. I am here because as miracles should have it, I have two teenagers whose talent amazes me every day.

I never really could comprehend the musical arts, although I LOVE music of all types. THEY, however, were able to "pick it up" as early as the 4th grade.

My daughter started off playing the clarinet for a year and is now 16 and playing the bass clarinet. (Now she also is playing drum and flute, too.) She is in three different band groups at school - Concert, Symphonic and Marching band.

My son has played tenor sax from the beginning. He is 14 now. The very first year he played, after only playing for one month, he had a 3-minute solo in the Holiday concert. It was a first to have a tenor player in the 5th grade band as it was - and they almost NEVER get solos at the first concert. He has been in the regular school band as well as the school jazz ensemble for the last four yrs.

My daughter uses a brand new instrument that the school provides and my son also uses a very OLD school instrument. I'm sorry I don't know what they are but am hoping to get some tips here as we will be in the market to purchase an instrument or two down the road.

Thanks for allowing me to be a part of your forum.

[kjohnson]

My Name is Nathan Johnson I am currently a freshmen ant the university of northern iowa studying to be a band teacher. I really love to learn anything about the saxophone and how it works so i figured that this would be a good place to sign up.

[littlebighorn]

hi there carls the name ive been playiing sax for bout 6 months got a 58 sml gold medal handed down from dad, it was playing fine up until bout a month ago then started to sound n feel screachy now i can get a hi D when I play
a hi G cant see any obvious causes if anyone can help with this it would be
much appreaciated

[soloten]

Hello to All,

My name is Sam and I've been looking at this site for over two years and finally decided to join. There's a lot of good educational information and experience opinions to be found here.

I've been playing tenor sax last three years, but just as a hobbyist.

I, like most of you here, have a love for vintage saxes and own one which is Conn 10M (1936) spend my free time trying to learn more about different models.

I'm excited about being a member and hope to continue to learn and possibly contribute something as well. Thank you to all for sharing your valuable experience with the new members.

With my regards,

[TGIFunky]

Hi

Found SOTW by searching for help on my aching jaw - very helpful - followed some other threads. I particularly liked the postings on dogs and the sax and the lady who plays the sax in her sleep - laughed so much my jaw started aching!
Investigating the serious stuff as well - brilliant. PLay tenor (Yanigasawa) - live in Aberdeen, Scotland. Playing for abour 20 years having taught myself as an adult beginner - made every mistake in the book - sometimes several times (a teacher would have been useful here).
Played in acid jazz, funk and soul bands - practice jazz. Now I make jazzy, downtempo beats with a couple of other musicians and practice... not long enough. Family and full time job (teacher) the main reason. This sounds like a confession not an introduction.

That's enough for now.

[meisenhower]

Hi all:

This is a great forum and I'm pleased to have run across it, so I thought I'd finally jump in and give an introduction.

First and foremost, I'm an ex-tenor player, who is picking up the horn again after about 30 years away from it. Piano is my primary instrument, but I doubled on tenor way back in HS and a little through college. Anyway, I got the itch and want to go back to playing, so I thought this would be a great place to get info and have some sax talk, and it was recommend by the tenor player in my jazz quartet.

I'm leaning towards alto this time around and have started the hunt for the right horn (I wish I hadn't left my vintage BA80 at my parents house in the 70's and told them it was ok to liquidate it, along with my original B3).

Ok, a little about me (sorry if its a little long, but it was easier to cut and paste from my bio than to type something new).
:)

I'm a college professor & physicist by day, and jazz pianist at night

I am a native Detroiter, and was originally a classically trained pianist, who’s musical world forever changed after hearing Miles Davis's Kind of Blue for the first time. At age 10, I discovered John Coltrane, Herbie Hancock, Bud Powell, Art Tatum, Thelonious Monk and Bill Evans, and developed a deep love for the jazz idiom. Later influences include Chick Corea and Return to Forever, John Scofield, John McLaughlin and the Mahavishnu Orchestra and others.

After migrating to Cambridge, Mass for college, I continued to write and perform music of many styles. After spending nearly as much time "hanging out" at the Berklee College of Music (which I never formally attended, but still managed to play in some ensembles there), as I did at my alma mater, MIT (which was just up the street and across the river). I got the opportunity from my Berklee experiences to play with some of the greats who were there at the time!

Over the years, I've played disco, funk, rock, R&B, fusion, straight ahead and hard bop jazz, the blues and have done it in North & South America, Europe and Asia. I've had the great fortune to have performed and shared a stage with Mike Stern, Stan Getz, Woody Herman, Baron Browne, John Blackwell, Meisenhower & Destiny. I'm currently the musical director and pianist for the Id.i.om Jazz Quartet. I've also been a long time jazz theory student of Charlie Banacos (both in person and via correspondence).

On a non-musical note, I'm an avid traveler and have visited over 40 countries and have lived in London, Zurich and Geneva. I also share my home with a collection of 7,000 vinyl records and two Great Danes named Pi & Enzo.

Some of my music can be heard at

http://www.myspace.com/meisenhowerjazz
http://www.myspace.com/idiom

Peace & music.

Ray

[Harri Rautiainen]

Thanks for your kind words, meisenhower:

Welcome on board all newcomers. Hope you like ioth here!