Note Trouble

[rs1sensen]

I'm an alto player who just bought an entry level soprano. I can play most of my lower notes but my G will not come out. I can play the A and the F but the G won't work. Occasionaly, I have trouble with the F and it kind of sputters but I can play the E below it. I can play the high versions of the note fine. Do you have any ideas on how to help. Any advice on sopranos in general would help too. Thanks!

[Gordon (NZ)]

Your sax is out of adjustment. The solution depends on the diagnosis.

Most likely possibilities:

1. The A key is not fully closing the Bb key immediately above the A key. (When you play lower than G then the linkage from the F#/F/E/D group also close the Bb key.) Press Bb shut with your left first finger on the Bb "Bis" key (as well as the B key) for diagnosis while playing G.

2. The G# pad is not fully closed, and is relying on the F#/F/E/D group to close it. Try pressuing the G# key CUP while you play G, for diagnosis.