going solo?

[bobbydazler]

I have recently been hit by the sax bug and am determined to start to play. I’m really excited by all the musicians who contribute to this site, and I can feel the enthusiasm through, among other things, the length of some of the postings!

My question is this – as a beginner with NO musical experience, and a very hectic schedule – I am concerned at taking something on I can’t maintain. Before I’m reprimanded for my apparent lack of enthusiasm at the first hurdle – I am curious, is it very important to play with others to maintain interest? I have notions of Lisa Simpson playing out of her window for her own amusement and need for expression, but realistically, how many of you play on your own, for yourself?
:oops:

[iplaydasax]

i play for myself its a great time for me to relax after school because i get the pleasure of playing, but i also play with other people in local bands to meet new people who enjoy exactly what you do yourself. :D

[saxmangeoff]

As for busy schedule, I suspect many (most?) of us here don't have a couple of hours every day to practice. If you're interested in playing, give it a shot. Recognize that with limited time, you're not going to sound like a professional in the next year, but within a month or two you should be able to do enough to have fun with it.

[kcp]

My boyfriend is teaching saxophone privately at our home since many years. For the most part there have always been a higher number of “amateur” (sorry for lack of a better word) students than students aspiring to become professional musicians. One of his students is a Scientist. He comes twice a week for lessons. For him, saxophone is a way to relax. He knows that he’ll never become a pro, but that doesn’t matter. What matters is that he enjoys it. There are a lot more players like him or you out there, than there are pro gigging musicians IMO.

As for playing for the pleasure thing goes; I think we all do play for ourselves first because why bother playing if you don’t enjoy it?

However, I have been a street musician for many years, I still do occasionally. As much as I enjoy playing, I found it very difficult at times because I was always playing on my own. People walking-by on the streets are often in a hurry and don’t always pay attention to the street musician. Music is a form of expression; it has to be shared. If one is playing for the pleasure but that there is no one on the receiving end, or no one who responds, then something is wrong. It’s like making a beautiful painting and hiding it somewhere where no one will ever find it… Pointless!!!

That’s the main reason why I started my own band. I was tired to play on my own all the time. Joining a band is a good way to meet others who share the same passions and interests as you.

[bobbydazler]

Thanks to everyone who replied to my post.

I have another question though. After reading all the questions and answers on this site, the question of What Sax to play has come up for me. The general theme seems to be Alto, although many others suggest finding the sound you want and getting hold of that. I appreciate that I need to start at the bottom and work up – but…

I have fallen in love with the sweet soft sound of a horn, but with my untrained ear I can’t tell what it is (could even be a clarinet for all I know!). The piece I am talking about in particular is called Stardust, on Columbia records – part of the Dave Brubeck, Time Signatures collection. Could anyone tell me what horn is making those noises!

[johnsax]

I've been playing for just under one year. I've YET to jam with a group so far and my interest level is still VERY high. I do play along with recordings and I also use Aebersold play-alongs.

It's just very hard to find a group of musicians at my beginning level to play with right now.

John

[johnsax]

bobbydazler,

That was a clarinet you heard by the way on Stardust (Bill Smith). Maybe THAT'S what you should take up?

John

[kcp]

It's just very hard to find a group of musicians at my beginning level to play with right now.

That's a good point. For sure the beginning years are difficult as it takes a while before one is able to play and sound decent enough to join a Community band or such.

Meanwhile, a good alternative may be a saxophone teacher (If you don't have one already) That makes someone to share your passion with and who understands you as well as help you improve. If you ask, it may be possible that your sax teacher have you meet with other of his students of the same or similar level as you are.