How I did it: I started playing in 5th grade. It took me awhile to decide on it but I am so glad I did! I admit, I didn't practice too much in my early years, but I practice so much now and it pays off tremendously! I got first chair in the state! (I'm first chair in pretty much everything, haha.) My saxophone is not the best brand to buy, but I found a 'good horn checklist' and it meets the standards! (I actually have two tenors. :9)

I didn't give up even though sometimes I just couldn't get things right!
(LOL that pic is so cute~ It's SUPER old!)

Lessons & tips: Keep at it even if you feel like a failure. At times I just felt like I couldn't get that one riff, but I got it. Also, join many ensembles and listen to other players! Experiencing others playing is very helpful as well, so I would recommend private lessons if you're serious. (Also, make sure if you buy a horn you don't just buy 'the one I can afford'. Save up a little because buying a bad horn can damage your playing forever.)

Resources: One really good book is "The Art of Saxophone Playing" by Larry Teal. I just bought this book recently under recommendation of a professional. (I haven't finished reading it though!) I can't say it'd be too helpful for a complete beginner though because you might be a little confused.
I'm not quite sure what to say for other sacophones, but I use a Otto Link 7* mouthpiece for jazz. Don't go out and buy this if you're a beginner- always get some help on buying a good, expensive motuhpiece. (My 7* was $200!)

Nov 25, 2008, 10:22PM PST | 1 comment | 1 cheer