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How to Use the Correct Size Saxophone Reeds

Reeds are made from bamboo, plastic and fiberglass, but bamboo, also called cane, is the most common and most popular. Reeds also have different thicknesses often described as soft or hard. The thickness ranges in size from 1 or 2 (soft) to 3 or 4 up to 5 (hard). The skill level of the player is a factor as well as the type of sound the player wants when choosing a reed size. The quality of the material and the construction also determine the playability of a reed. You'll have to experiment with the different manufacturers until you find the right combination of strength, playability and sound.

Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the type of saxophone. Baritone, tenor, alto or soprano each need a different size. The manufacturer will indicate the instrument on the product container.

    • 2

      Judge your skill level. Beginners usually use a softer reed (size 1, 2 or possibly 3). The longer you play the harder the reed because your embouchure gets stronger.

    • 3

      Select your material. Cane reeds are used by most professional musicians. You can also use plastic-coated reeds and even fiberglass reeds. The fiberglass reeds can last for many years, but sometimes produce a thin sound.

    • 4

      Adjust your reed strength based on the type of sound you want. Softer reeds play the lower notes easily, but often struggle with the upper ranges and don't always give you a clean sound, while hard reeds are louder and can hit the high notes with less effort.

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