Which reeds for saxophone

For example, Vandoren is thicker than Rico so a Vandoren size 2 may be similar in thickness to a Rico size 2. As you purchase your reeds, make sure that you are buying the correct size for your specific instrument. Saxophone reeds differ from clarinet reeds. This also means that alto saxophone reeds only fit alto saxophones, baritone saxophone reeds only fit baritone saxophones, and so on. Once you've been playing for a while, you'll want to explore different reed sizes and brands to broaden your sound palette.

Posted: October 09, Related Products. Recent Posts. August This post may contain affiliate links. Info here. And, as such, some reeds are better than others when it comes to playing jazz. How to choose a jazz reed for saxophone The best way to find the perfect reed for you is to experiment with different products and strengths: find out what feels and sounds best with your skill and experience level, the type of music you play, and the mouthpiece you use.

What do the saxophone reed numbers mean? The tip opening of your mouthpiece will also impact which reed works for you, but more on that another time… It is worth choosing one of the major jazz reed brands: even if they are slightly more expensive, their products will tend to last longer and be more consistent.

A good option for players of all levels, they are available in strengths ranging from 1. Related posts: What are the Best Saxophones for Jazz? Our 1 Pick! Vandoren ZZ Reeds. Check Price on Amazon. Royal by D'Addario. Rico Select Jazz. Great projection and flexibility, making them ideal for jazz. Vandoren Java. There are many different types of reeds, and many things to consider when determining the correct reed for you.

It is definitely a process. Reeds can be constructed from different materials: most reeds are made from cane, although there are reeds that are made from synthetic materials plastic as well as reeds that are a hybrid of cane and synthetic. Reeds are made for different styles: there are reeds that are advertised as classical reeds, reeds that are advertised as jazz reeds, etc.

There are different brands of reeds: Vandoren, La Voz, Rico, etc. Once you have all of that figured out, reeds also come in different strengths. Most reeds use a number system from 1 to 5, with increments of 0. Choosing the reed strength that works for you is more or less trial and error. Some people use a mouthpiece with a wide tip opening in combination with a softer reed, while some people use a mouthpiece with a narrow tip opening in combination with a harder reed.

Some people like to buy size 5 reeds and alter each reed to be perfect for them. You can ask your band director or private teacher if they have any reeds you can sample. Your band director may have some extras on hand. In addition, some companies sell reed sample packs that have a few different styles of reeds in them. Finding the right reed strength for each saxophone player is a process, and highly individual, but there are some common reed types and strengths that are time-tested and proven to work well for beginners.

Most beginners start by using La Voz or Rico reeds, because they are the cheapest brands. A size 2 reed is a great place to start for a beginner. Play on it for a while before switching to a 2. Size 3 is definitely too hard for a beginner though. Once again, it depends on the specific reed, though. These are just some basic guidelines of where to start.