Getting the reed to vibrate???

[ajcurtis]

When I'm playing long tones / scales I have a problem with the first note that I play. The note doesn't start immedately, there is a time lag before it comes out true. Nnce I have started to play I experience no problems and can get a fairly solid block of sound.

I have looked at how I start the note (tonguing) but up to now have failed to cure the problem!

I have also thought it good be poor breath support, but I'm just guessing.

Any advice would be gratefully recieved.
ajc

[Paul Coats]

I have a series of articles accessed from the home page of Sax On The Web which may help you. Look at Tone Production for Beginning Saxophonists (my first article on SOTW), and Beginner's Corner 3 and 4.

The air pressure must already be present before the tongue is withdrawn from the reed. The tongue should just lightly touch the reed, as if saying "tahhh". It is only necessary to lightly touch the reed to stop if from vibrating. It is not necessary to close the reed off witht he tongue.

But first you need to be able to make a tone easily and efficiently, and these articles will help.