Upper Palette-HELP!

[dustin1114]

Well, I've been playing the alto sax for about 4 years, and I'm starting to get into harder songs. About six months ago, I started noticing that the upper palette of my mouth(between my throught and nasal cavity) basically began to "leak" air after extended periods of playing high B's and C's. Now, I'm just starting to play high d's and e's, and after about fifteen minutes of playing my palette just won't let me play. I tried blowing softer, harder, and changing my embrousure, but none help. Also, after about an hour I'm fine. I'm perfectly fine all the way from very low notes to high c's; I can play for hours and have no problem.
Any help would be VERY much appreciated. Thanks

[Dave Dolson]

dustin: Years ago, when my embouchure would tire, I found it impossible to force the air out through the horn - instead, it would go through my nose. I finally conquered that problem with more open mouthpieces and softer reeds, continual playing to toughen my embouchure, and reducing the intensity with which I blew the horn. I learned that my horn was heard clearly out front even if everyone was blowing hard (or over amplified) and by backing off the volume and pressure, I was able to play endlessly. DAVE

[dustin1114]

Thanks, Dave, I'll try that.