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Need help with the reed on my alto sax?
I just started playing the alto sax with no instructor (part of the fun for me and no instructors where I am anyways). I am wondering about my reed. It chipped up top a little bit, so I trimmed the end so it remains in a parallel shape with the mouthpiece. My question is, does this matter? Is the reed created in such a way that the slightest increase in width is going to have an affect?
Any other insight is great too.
3 Answers
- ?Lv 51 decade agoFavorite Answer
You do experience intonation issues (the ability to stay in tune) which the reed becomes chips, as well as change in tone and ease of playing. Small chips arent that noticeable, but you it's a good idea to change it. You're supposed to change it every few weeks, but I dont always, mostly cause Im broke. Btw, when you buy a box of reeds, Ive noticed that in the box of ten, maybe 4 of them feel good, like magical good, the rest are wateva. So hold on to the magical ones, lol
- Anonymous1 decade ago
I also play an instrument that is close to the alto which is the clarinet. Honestly, I would say it does affect your playing slightly. Not much. I mean as long as it plays I'm sure you're fine. Check your self with a tuner to see if you're flat or sharp and if you're not you'll be fine. If your reed gets chipped anymore you might want to buy a new one.