Setup Recommendations for Alto Saxophone
Investing more in the beginning will payoff in the end!
Mouthpiece
The mouthpieces listed below are in levels of preferred sounds, the Hite being least preferred and the JodyJazz being the most preferred, yet all of which I’ve had success with. *Note: the difference between Meyer and JodyJazz is so minuscule really that only a professional could hear the difference in sound. So, depending on your budget, I recommend using the following:
Meyer 7 Medium (SIZE WILL VARY DEPENDING ON COMPATIBILITY - it’s a good idea to play test a few different sizes)
JodyJazz Hard Rubber Mouthpiece (SIZE WILL VARY DEPENDING ON COMPATIBILITY - it’s a good idea to play test a few different sizes)
Mouthpiece Cushions
These protect your mouthpiece from teeth wear and tear.
WINGKIND Alto/tenor Sax Clarinet Mouthpiece Patches Pads Cushions, Black, 8 Pack
Beginner Alto Saxophone
Yamaha YAS 23
Yup, that’s it. I’m a big fan of the YAS 23 to start with. Now I play on a Yanigisawa, but here is a video of me playing a Yamaha YAS 23 with a Meyer 7M mouthpiece and Bravo non-toxic synthetic 3 reed.
Alto Sax Reeds (for beginners)
Bravo Reeds size 2.5 (I currently play on a size 3.)
D’Addario Jazz Select Reeds size 2 Hard or 2 Medium (depending on student)
Alto Sax Reed Soaker
Quality Reed Soaker (also good for Alto)
Alto Sax Neck Strap
Alto Sax Instrument Stand
Hercules Sax Stand — Although definitely not as sturdy, Hercules would be my second choice.
Alto Sax Swab