[jakethesax]

I've been searching posts to see if anyone else gets this problem, but apart from the usual intonation issues that seem to surround the sop, I quite often get a problem where my middle E plays very sharp, I think it could be to do with embrochure or throat shape, it doesn't always happen, but particularly when I'm playing hard... Any ideas? I'm on a Yamaha custom 875, but I've had it with my Yani curved (which I'm selling at the mo, see the f/s threads).. I wondered if anyone else has encountered this?
(I usually use a late 80's link metal 7 with Lavoz medium reeds, clipped to play harder)

 

[Reedscraper]

Middle E is sharp on sop, alto, ten and bari. You have to learn to "re-voice" that note by lowering your voicing, like singing, lowering the larynx. Also check to be shure the low D pad and cup aren't excessively high. You can block down the low C pad so it doesn't open as far but it will also affect the low E.

 

[jakethesax]

hmm thats interesting, I've definitely felt something move in my throat when this happens..is interesting that its only quite recent, as have been playing sop for over 20 years.. not enough practice then.... aaahhh, well ok, that can be dealt with!

 

[Mikeysaxcat]

Yeah, very true that middle E is usually sharp even on the big name horns. The key heights usually help some but it all comes down to the throat and larynx position when voicing these notes. Some mouthpieces with baffles on soprano just dont work for some players this is something to keep in mind also. Good luck.

sent from Mikey's Super Inspire 4G

 

[evan1]

Jake i agree with reedscraper. Its sharp on my tenor and not so much on my soprano. One thing i do to assist is use the low B key with the middle E it which helps pitching it down.