Buying a Beginner Saxophone

Congratulations! Your music student has decided they want to play the saxophone – one of the most popular instruments on the market. Anyone shopping for a saxophone for beginners is faced with dozens of choices. You’re probably asking yourself, “what is the best beginner saxophone for my child?” While there is probably not one single “right answer,” there are many factors to consider, and seeking advice from your child’s music teacher is an excellent place to start. Once you’re ready to start shopping and comparing student saxophones, there are some great choices for you to consider.

What Family of Instrument are Saxophones In?

Even though saxophones are made mostly of metal, they are classified in the woodwind family of instruments, because of the wooden reed that is crucial to making its sound. The reed is held onto the mouthpiece by a ligature. The body of a saxophone is a conical metal tube with openings controlled by padded keys. Most saxophones have an upturned lower end (except the soprano sax) and a detachable neck at the upper end. The saxophone is one of the most recognizable instruments in terms of appearance and sound.

Most beginner saxophonists will start on the alto sax, but there are many types of saxophones in use today, including:

  • Soprano (Bb)
  • Alto (Eb)
  • Tenor (Bb)
  • Baritone (Eb)
  • Bass (Bb)

 

Who Plays a Beginner Saxophone?

As mentioned above, most students will start on the alto saxophone (though it is possible to start with a tenor, if the music teacher recommends it). Because the alto sax is a relatively smaller instrument and is heavily relied on in melodic portions of the woodwind score, many band directors are happy to steer students toward this instrument. Almost anyone can learn to play the saxophone – kids as young as 8 years old can start on the instrument.

In general, a musician who plays the saxophone can simply be called a saxophone player or a saxophonist.

What Does a Saxophone Look Like?

Beginner alto and tenor saxophones contain the same basic and essential parts. This picture of a saxophone shows you the breakdown of those parts.

What are Student Saxophones Made of?

Most student saxophones have yellow brass (an alloy composed of copper and zinc) bodies and a clear lacquer. While you’ll see advanced saxophones made with bronze, copper, or silver, these materials are geared towards the professional player seeking a distinctive tone and look. Student models are built to be affordable, durable and to withstand the rigors of student practice and frequent transporting from home to school.

What Does a Beginner Saxophone Sound Like?

You could describe a beginner alto sax sound as metallic, bright and high pitched. A sax player produces sound from the saxophone by blowing into the mouthpiece, which vibrates the reed. The sound is projected through the tubes and out the bell. The musician changes the pitch of notes by using the keys.

Good Saxophone Brands for Beginner Players

If you’re looking for a good student alto saxophone, there are many instrument makers that craft high-quality instruments. Look for models from Allora, Etude, Yamaha and more.

Student saxophones are created to be easy-to-play and suitable for smaller hands and bodies to hold. You can’t go wrong with any of these selections.

Best Beginner Alto Saxophones:

1. Etude Alto Student Saxophone
2. Allora Alto Student Saxophone
3. Prelude by CS Alto Saxophone
4. Giardinelli Alto Student Saxophone

 

If you’re looking for a student tenor, remember that this instrument is a bit bigger and heavier than the alto sax, so it may be better suited for a student who is equipped to handle the weight and the airflow of the instrument.

If your student has selected the tenor saxophone to begin his or her music career, you want to choose a quality tenor sax that plays easily and fits a young musician’s frame. This will keep them from getting frustrated and help them enjoy learning music.

Here are several beginner tenor saxophones to consider:

1. Allora Student Series Tenor Saxophone
2. Prelude by Conn-Selmer TS711 Student Model Tenor Saxophone
3. Yamaha YTS-26 Standard Tenor Saxophone
4. Etude ETS-200 Student Series Tenor Saxophone

 

Saxophone Accessories

Maintenance is an important part of owning a saxophone and a young student should be taught early on about the importance of saxophone care and cleaning. Regular use of saxophone swabs, cork grease, key oil and mouthpiece brushes will keep your investment in top condition.

In addition to these maintenance related items, other common accessories for saxophone players often include items more suited to musical needs, such as different types of mouthpieces. Lastly, while many instrument cases provide some room for these additional items, cases made exclusively for saxophones can provide ample storage for all the player’s accessories and provide much-needed protection for your instrument.

Young saxophone players also benefit from practicing with metronomes. And a tuner is a must-have for any musician!

 

Buying a Beginner Sax at Woodwind & Brasswind

If you’re still not sure which model to purchase, learn more with our saxophone buying guide. You can also review the top 3 things to look for in a saxophone. And, of course, our musical experts are always standing by to help you choose the best saxophone for your young musician. We can discuss your child’s playing level, your budget, and financing opportunities that may be available to help. Call us at 800.348.5003 to talk through the options for beginner saxophones.