Making the first sounds on a musical instrument is quite a thrill. Learning where to put fingers, how to shape and control the mouth muscles and how to put the reed on the mouthpiece are among the very important questions at this formative stage. It is best to take private lessons for individual attention in addition to class lessons at school for ensemble experience. These two learning environments complement each other ideally. A minimum of thirty minutes a day should be devoted to individual practice. In the beginning two fifteen minute sessions are recommended.

It is extremely important to invest in a good mouthpiece for the beginner. Mouthpieces furnished with beginning instruments are not always ideal. A poor or damaged mouthpiece can defeat every effort to play well.

Students should learn early on about proper care of their reeds, mouthpieces and instruments. The mouthpiece and reed should be cleaned, and the neck of the saxophone swabbed after every playing session before storage in the case.

A special note for beginning saxophone students: Most commercial saxophonists play both clarinet and saxophone; many also play flute. Many teachers feel that it is best to learn the clarinet first because it is somewhat difficult to add later. Consultation with an instructor should include consideration of this question.

There are many class and private study saxophone methods available for early study. Personal preference will vary. The class and band methods used by most schools are compatible with methods designed for private study when used simultaneously.