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 2.5, unless it feels entirely too soft, then 2.5 is okay. Size 3 is definitely too hard for a beginner though.

What size saxophone reed should I use?

In general, a thinner reed, say 2 or 2.5, will have a brighter tone. Thinner reeds vibrate more easily, so they are good for beginners. Players of popular music or jazz often prefer this brighter tone and thus use thinner reeds.

Are harder reeds better?

Harder reeds are not better than softer reeds. It is worth using a harder reed if you wish to be louder, or if you have a thin sound in the upper register. However, this comes with the cost of being harder to play on. It is important to understand that harder reeds do not make you inherently sound better.

Are Rico reeds good?

Rico reeds are consistent and play well right out of the box. They are cheaper than Vandoren, come in a variety of styles for classical or jazz, and work well for marching band. More advanced classical players prefer Vandoren, but D’Addario (Rico) reeds are gaining popularity for their quality.

When should I move up a reed size?

Recognize the signs. Move up if it’s hard to get a warm sound on the high notes or the pitch is flat. Move down if the sound is stuffy and articulation isn’t clean. Reed strength needs to match the mouthpiece you’re playing on.

Should you soak saxophone reeds?

You should soak your reeds for about one minute with saliva. This ensures that the reed is moist enough to play well without being so wet that it becomes waterlogged. If the reed is brand new, you may want to soak it more thoroughly with water for about twenty minutes before working with it.

When should I move to harder reed?

Recap: when to move up a reed size If it takes too little embouchure effort to make a sound and the tone is edgy and bright, try a harder strength reed. If it takes too much embouchure effort and the tone is fuzzy and dull, try a softer strength reed. Remember that all of this works in combination with your mouthpiece.

How often should you change your reed?

every two to three weeks
You should turn the reeds every two to three weeks to keep the scent alive. Submerging them in the oil gives the dry ends the opportunity to absorb all they can, while the previously submerged bottom stands out and projects an immediately stronger scent. Turning the reeds frequently will not make them last longer.

What is the best Reed strength for saxophone?

The standard scale for reed strength runs from 1 through 5, with 1 being the softest and 5 being the hardest reed. If you’re a beginner saxophone or clarinet player, it’s usually best to start with a softer reed – around a strength of 2.

What is the meaning of Reed strength?

Reed Strength is the measurement of the density and stiffness of the cane. This chart shows a general guideline of reed strength which may be indicated by numbers, or by words. The lower the number the softer the reed.

What does the number on a reed mean?

Reed Strength. Reed Strength is the measurement of the density and stiffness of the cane. This chart shows a general guideline of reed strength which may be indicated by numbers, or by words. The lower the number the softer the reed. Younger or less-experienced players use a softer reed than advanced players and professionals.

What are D’Addario reeds good for?

Musicians around the world, from beginners through to professional players, know and trust D’Addario reeds to help them play consistently and confidently. However, many players, whether they are just starting out on a woodwind instrument or if they are interested in trying a new brand of reed, have questions about reed strengths.