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How to Fix a Chipped Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece

Fixing a chipped alto saxophone mouthpiece can help to prevent the mouthpiece from cracking completely under pressure. When you only have a small chip, it is still possible to correct the mouthpiece through customizing and applying a metal support. Mouthpieces that have been chipped on the tip or the area around the reed require professional attention in order to correct the mouthpiece flaws without changing the tone of the instrument. The saxophone mouthpiece most commonly cracks at the base because of the pressure from being removed from the saxophone neck.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Aluminum ring
  • Epoxy glue
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Instructions

    • 1

      Visit a hardware store and locate a piece of aluminum tubing that will fit the base of your saxophone mouthpiece. Ask for help with cutting the pipe to fit the exact specifications of your mouthpiece. The exact shape and size will be dependent on the individual mouthpiece. To find the correct measurement use a measuring tape and measure the diameter across the mouthpiece base. Most mouthpieces will be between 7/8 to 1 inch wide. The thickness of the tube should be approximately .05 inch.

    • 2

      Insert the end of the mouthpiece into the aluminum tube by holding the mouthpiece with your right hand and the tube with your left hand. Push the mouthpiece into the metal ring and ensure that the mouthpiece extends to the end of the mouthpiece. This will help seal the crack and prevent the mouthpiece from splitting.

    • 3

      Attach the mouthpiece to the neck of the saxophone and attempt to play the instrument. If the instrument plays with a pleasing tone, remove the mouthpiece and apply epoxy glue to the inside of the ring. Reattach the ring to the base of the saxophone mouthpiece and let the mouthpiece sit for at least 15 minutes before playing again.

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