RE-START

Its been a good half year since I've made any inroads into my practice and motivation. Then out of the blue while walking around Empire Mall (Subang Jaya), I found a small music school called Beethoven Music offering saxophone classes. I live nearby so having a location that's easy to get to IS A BIG DEAL for me. Imagine rushing to class, in a bad jam, tired from work, and you forgot to bring something. Oh well...

Back to the music school. Its run by a sweet Korean lady (an expert in clarinet), so I'm quite confident of an efficiently run, clean environment and has a well thought out teaching process. The classes are once a week, 45 minutes each (15 minutes theory + 30 minutes class) at RM70/class. Damage is RM280/month. There were 2 saxophone tutors at the time I signed up.

They allow a trial class to potential students to judge the tutors, environment, etc. It is chargeable, by the way.

In my 1st class, my tutor recommended a Grade 1 theory book, meant for "Young Musicians". Its back to basics for me, for the theory work. I found this to be relatively fun. Reading notes, timing, rests, homework and so forth. Then we did some breathing exercises, techniques, tips and tricks. Very refreshing indeed.

MIssing In Action

Its been about 2 months since I've done any consistent practicing. This was a period of feeling lazy, bored, incapable of progress and tiredness that's kept clouding over me. It could be somewhat like getting a 'writers block'. Of course I'm not in any position to do any creative input with music, but more like a momentary lapse in efficiency. Yah, something like that.

It may or may not happen to you. This feeling of sudden curiosity with music and saxophone, then eagerness to practice (sometimes frustrated you couldn't practice that day), then reaching a goal or achievement (for whatever the case), then CRASHHH... Meaning, all of a sudden there is no adrenaline or anticipation of what more to learn and excite me.

Hopefully this 'quiet' period will run over soon. Deep deep down I feel I need to practice and not waste the effort I've put in. But whenever I see my saxophone, I'll say "Tomorrow lah, too tired today". So, doing practices alone is quite boring. Find your means and ways to spruce up the activity. DON'T GIVE UP...

Clip on microphone

If you're interested in recording or playing in gigs, you'll at least require a clip-on microphone on the bell of your saxophone. There are many brands with various pricing to choose from. Some of which are SHURE, AKG, Audio Technica and DPA. At www.sax.co.uk they have a catalogue list of products to suit all types of need (http://www.sax.co.uk/acatalog/saxophones_co_uk_Sax_microphones__wireless_systems___reflectors_32.html)

[SHURE]

{Beta 98 H/C @ USD209}

First performance on stage

The video below is my first time doing an on stage performance. It was for my brother's wedding day (18th June 2011 @ Tropicana Resort).

Had a few screw ups on the keys and very noticeable squeaks. Not a good performance but a great 1st experience nonetheless. Still a long way to go for doing gigs. Need to learn more improvisation and breath control.

Guitarist was the bride's younger sister. We were doing only 1 song as a 'siblings performance' for the evening.

My Photo

After much delay, here's a picture of me. The unkempt version, about to go to bed.

Photos of YOU

I thought it'd be interesting to ask for pictures of yourself and your saxophone.

Just a full length or 3/4 front view OR in any pose you deem fit for posting.
If there's some general info (name, instrument, accessories, blog, location, etc.) attached with it, that'd be swell too.

Whether you're playing it, or dream of playing it, just send me a photo. This would be a fun exercise to share a common interest.

(actually I've not taken one myself. soon soon....)

Candy Dulfer

For female players looking for a role model, Ms Candy Dulfer.

Epic Sax Guy

There's a recent viral phenomenon of a talent show contestant (who didn't win, who came from Moldova, who was a 6-piece band and who I'm not sure what they're names are) that has had a huge number of following and video remixes. Courtesy of 1 member playing his saxophone....and some hip movement (some also said because of their 'gay-ness', meaning 'very very happy' lah).

Song : Fly Away

Band : SunStroke Project

Origin : Moldova

Performed at : Eurovision Song Contest

When : 2010

Saxophonist : Sergei Stepanov

Nickname : EPIC SAX GUY

The rest : I don't know and I don't care...

This is their original video at the Eurovision competition :

This is just one of the numerous remixes:

And this was their music video, predating the competition :

Other passionate saxophonists

Along the journey of my discovery, there have been some very encouraging and thoughtful emails and posts from new friends I've met online. Though a few keep blogs, there are also some who are without (or at least not that I know of).

Below are a few friends whom I hope my advice proves useful in their quest to start or continue their plans in pursuing a saxophone as a hobby/career/entertainment/skill/etc. As and when there are new friends, I'll try to update them. Its somewhat a motivation to keep going, and not give up.

Ms Spartanbabe

http://spartanbabe.wordpress.com/

(started with a saxophone)

Mr Tempus

http://whatsinthebinn.blogspot.com/

(currently awaiting arrival of new saxohpone)

And here's a blog by my previous tutor, with some helpful pointers about the language of saxophones.

http://www.saxmalaysia.com/

My current tutor doesn't have a blog, so can't show much. He charges higher in fees (~RM100/lesson), but provides really useful knowledge for my next level in practice and then performance.

Circle of 5ths

The above diagram (by Johann David Heinichen, 1728) shows the correlation of related keys and their # (sharps) & b (flats). Its called the CIRCLE OF FIFTHS, and is a good way to learn your major and minor scales.

Some people may find it boring to do scales, but I found it quite fun because initially you'll be remembering what keys to press, and somehow after mastering them your fingers run on auto-cruise all by itself. That's a satisfaction I enjoy, knowing that I'm doing things more natural and less thinking.

I start each practice session with major scales (the outer circle), as follows;

C (no sharp, no flat)

G (F#)

F (Bb)

D (F#, C#)

Bb (Bb, Eb)

A (F#, C#, G#)

Eb (Bb, Eb, Ab)

E (F#, C#, G#, D#)

Ab (Bb, Eb, Ab, Db)

B (F#, C#, G#, D#, A#)

Db (Bb, Eb, Ab, Db, Gb)

(the above can also be done by running through all the # scales, then proceed with the b scales. but i prefer alternating. meaning adding 1 sharp, then 1 flat to each major scale)

After completing the major scales, next up is the minor scales (the inner circle).

My new 'toy'

This creature popped into my life and is now living in the house with me and my saxophone. He does some pretty good pose as well, all by himself. Though the pampers fitting are a little large coz he's quite little.

The picture should remind me of how fragile, small and innocence can exist, until they turn 2 years!!!

/*Note : A post that has nothing to do with this blog. Just a short detour out...*/

Rejuvenated saxophone

After 2 weeks of inactivity, because I left my saxophone for servicing, I collected my unit with some disappointment. I've had a budget estimate in mind to spend rm250 for regular servicing and maintenance. They called me up few days later saying that after some inspection they noticed about 10 pads have dried out, and recommends replacing them at rm20/pc. So my budget now has gone up to rm250 + rm200 = rm450. When I went to collect my unit, the boss mentioned he took the liberty to replace all the pads. That's ALL 27 PADS!!! The price for this FULL RANGE SERVICE is rm680!!!

The fact that the other pads are still working fine is what cheesed me off. I felt it'd be better to do a gradual replacement of few pads at a time. But alas, the boss (who services the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra instrument) believes rm680 is the best option for me.

I don't know if the money was worth it. He said I should not need to change for another 5 years, and that these are new Yamaha Made-In-Japan pads. One thing I felt after bringing it back home is the saxophone's overall playability and sound is more focused, in tune with my metronome and feels 'upgraded'.

My consolation to myself is that after almost 15 years that it has been stored in my cabinet, this is the only time its been serviced since coming out of the Japan factory.

Servicing your instrument

My low 'B' and 'Bb' notes always sounded incorrect, even after a year playing. They are hard to hit, and vibrate inconsistently. Sometimes sounding right, sometimes irritatingly lousy. I thought it was my embouchure or technique. Then my new tutor mentioned it could probably be an effect of a leak in the seals.

You see, the tone holes close when you key on certain 'buttons'. But sometimes the holes aren't closed entirely, and little air leaks out causing an uneven note. When this happens, its best to send your unit in for servicing.

I've just brought mine to the Yamaha Kelana Jaya branch to a place called EP WINDS STUDIO, which is run independently from Yamaha. Two technicians are there, Tan and Chong, to service and repair most woodwind instruments. It should set me back about RM250 for an overall servicing and be ready in 1 weeks time. Will return with more info by next week...

Selmer Saxophone Factory

A Selmer saxophone is renowned for its quality, brand and style. Although it is the "Selmer-Paris" range, and not the "Selmer USA", for which they are famous for.

Basically (I may not be 100% correct in this), Selmer USA are made in Taiwan for student to pro level of instruments.

While Selmer Paris are made in France for pro level instruments only.

Even Kenny G's setup is a Mark VI soprano. The Mark VI range of Selmer Paris are expensive and highly reputable, though from one instrument to another they may sound beautiful to horrible.

Here's a video of what a hand-made instrument goes through their France factory

ACCESSORIZE!!!

Made a few small purchases from www.wwbw.com and www.amazon.com, in hopes that a friend coming back from USA can help bring back. Here's a few of the items.

[Neotech Wick-It Neck Strap with Hook]

Current Yamaha standard neck strap doesn't have any padding, so when it hangs behind my neck for a while it can get a bit strenuous. I think the Neotech brand is quite popular (it says Made In USA). And I wanted a non-intrusive looking strap so I've opted for this design that uses a simple string pull mechanism. There are other options of thicker strap and hook type.

[Vandoren Java reeds, strength #2.5]

I tried the standard Vandoren (blue box) and this Java (green box) version, and they both sounded almost the same (probably because I'm still beginner level). So I thought I'd try this instead, getting a box of 10 since it is a good bargain.

Vandoren reeds are made in France, and are aluminium foil sealed to maintain its "freshness". The strength #2.5 is normally beginner to intermediate level. The higher the number, the stiffer the reed, thus the stronger your embouchure needs to grip the mouthpiece. Normally after few years of playing and developing your embouchure, you'll increase the reed strength.

(Amazing Phrasing for Saxophone - Book & CD)

(101 Saxophone Tips - Book & CD)

These 2 books are published by Hal Leonard. Have not had a chance to see its contents fully, so will just have to wait till it arrives. The reviews and 'Sneak Peek' (from Amazon.com) looks quite interesting. They come with a CD. It is normally better to buy books with a CD to hear the difference and have a better understanding of the methods taught. Unless you're fine without it, you'll need to spend a bit more on these.

Online purchase

A good site to do online purchase for saxophone equipment is at www.wwbw.com [The Woodwind and Brasswind]. The index page looks like the image below.

The 2 sections I browse a lot are the 'ACCESSORIES' and 'WOODWINDS' links. You do get some pretty interesting stuff that tempts you to click 'Add Cart' and 'Proceed to Checkout'. Many of the products they sell aren't available here in Malaysia. Well, at least not in the major music stores.

So far I've found the Vandoren reeds to be the best thing to get. At under USD25 for a box of 10pcs, it'll be USD2.50/pc, or RM7.50 in Malaysian Ringgit!!! Compare that with the RM18.00/pc price tag here, I'd say that is a good bargain.

Only thing is you'll need to have a friend to bring it back for you from the USA. Unless you buy a lot at one go, the shipping costs are quite pricey.

End of a chapter

My saxophone tutor, for the past 16 months, will now be parting ways as he begins a new challenge in his career as an adult. An excellent person that he is, though younger than me by 10 years, he's been kind to impart very useful knowledge to me over the past year. Here's hoping to a good success in all your endeavors, Brian.

And so begins a new chapter in my search for a tutor. Have a few contacts on hand, some of whom I've met, but still undecided on who to study under. I've few concerns when choosing a tutor; namely their experience, teaching ability, musical flexibility, lesson fees, location and even personality.

It isn't easy to locate good saxophonists in Kuala Lumpur. I bet there are countless guitarist, pianist, drummers, bassist but wind instrument are somewhat less popular.

Vibrato

Progressing steadily into my 1st year, I'm finding that in order to achieve some 'emotions' into any music played, I need to add motion or what musicians call VIBRATO.

Violinists/guitarist pluck back and forth their fingers on the strings, singers work with their abdomen (some with their throat), and saxophonist do it using their jaws.

Below is a vibrato lesson to demonstrate how beginners progress from 'wah-woo-wah-woo' to the emotions...

Tuition Fees

When I first started lessons at Yamaha (Subang Parade), little did I expect the fun and relaxation I get out of playing (or at least practicing) my saxophone. Month after month of playing, its already been 1 year on and am still enjoying much of it.

Of course in the beginning I had with me zero knowledge of anything. My tutor started me off with a beginners book, which I'll call Book 1. Thereafter, Book 2. And then (which is now) we're working on various pieces; from latin to jazz to pop to classical; none of which follow any book sequence.

Therein, lies the difference in fees. (money money money)

During Book 1 lessons, my fees were RM145.00.

Proceeding into Book 2, fees went up to RM165.00.

Completing Book 2, we're now in 'wide ocean', fees are RM178.00

(no more increase after this).

To achieve higher opportunity cost, I need to learn more in a shorter period of time, then play freelance and recoup my investments. Music is a fun hobby, albeit pricey if you're not working. Something to think about...

Meyer mouthpiece (part II)

Finally received the Meyer 5M mouthpiece (medium facing), ordered online from USA and hand carried back to KL by my best friend. Its made of ebonite (a hard rubber material) and (as I understand it) is hand finished in USA. Comes in a very simple white box, encasing within it a mouthpiece, ligature and cover.

After giving a quick rinse and drying, tried to fix on the reed with the provided ligature. Then proceeded with greasing the cork on the neck, and pushed the mouthpiece into the cork. STUCK! Couldn't go in on the first try, had to add more grease and gently twist it in. Didn't have this issue with my existing Yamaha 4C mouthpiece, which fitted easily without any hassle.

Alrights, and on to the first blow. QUACK! Literally my first try sounded like a duck. My guess is my embouchure and tongue needs some time to adjust... A few more blows and I'm back to normal. On this first day of practicing a new mouthpiece, I would say there isn't any major difference to the Yamaha 4C plastic unit. Probably the Meyer is a little easier to obtain the notes, and mellower in tone. Will test it a few more times to get a better understanding.

Trinity Guildhall

Before I began learning the saxophone (exactly 1 year ago), I had the intention of a curious cat. Very inquisitive and awed at the way this shiny, sexy instrument 'sings'. And so I took it upon myself to learn, within the best of my ability (and precious time), to play all the keys, read the notes and have sufficient understanding to make this thing work they way I want it to.

Now, I'm wondering if I should set another higher bar for me to achieve. Sort of like having a mission that needs to be achieved. What I have in mind is to take a music grade examination.

My tutor believes I can get through Grade 4 easily and Grade 5 normally. So he would recommend me going for a Grade 6 examination instead, just to make it more challenging. The time frame would be to register for an exam around 6 months down the road.

The problem is, I've got no prior musical examination nor experience before this. So I'll have my work cut out for me if I need to get up to shape of a Grade 6 level. This means reading up a lot of materials and knowing Grade 5 level and below.

2 highly recognised (I think) institution of musical examination are the ABRSM and TRINITY GUILDHALL. Here are links to the saxophone syllabus for these schools;

ABRSM : http://www.abrsm.org/?page=exams/gradedMusicExams/latestSyllabuses.html

TRINITY GUILDHALL : http://www.trinitycollege.co.uk/site/?id=1052

You can download the PDF files and understand more about their exam requirement, rules, marking, pieces, scope, etc in those pages. It makes quite an interesting read (for me at least) because it sounds more fun than a Form 5 examination and is an entirely new world to explore.

I'm still pondering...

Vandoren Java reeds

I've just started testing out the Vandored Java reed (#2 1/2) which I bought with the earlier Rico Hemke. It took me some time (a few days) to 'break in', or soften, the tip before I could really get it to produce a reasonable sound.

Normally new reeds need to be play tested a few times before they can be played at a comfortable range. Some advice I've heard to 'break in' the reeds was to place them in a bowl/cup of water for about 10-15 minutes, sufficient enough to soak water into its fibres.

The Vandoren Java I got is of a slightly higher strength (reeds of different brands have numbers to represent its strength, for various music styles and player's mouth setup) than the Rico Hemke. What this means is I need to place more control on my embouchure and attain a bigger push of air from my diaphragm to play a tune from low C to high C (2 octaves). I like the warm sound the Java provides, as opposed to Hemke's easy blowing but sharper notes. But may opt for a #2 strength for future testing.

Below is a comparison chart of reed strength from the more common brands available in the market.

And here are some good reading about reed strength;

http://www.saxplus.com/reed-strength-chart.html

http://tamingthesaxophone.com/saxophone-reeds.html

Meyer mouthpiece

The current mouthpiece I'm using, a Yamaha 4C, is regarded as one of the best pieces any eager student learning saxophone should start with. Reason being (despite its plastic made material) is that Yamaha has done a fine job mass producing to accurate consistencies an easy blowing mouthpiece at an affordable price (mine was rm100 because the old one broke).

Of course a plastic mouthpiece can only do so much, and in order to 'up the ante' on your practice, its recommended to change to an ebonite (a very hard rubber material. do a search on wikipedia) piece to give a warmer, fuller sound. Some research work is needed (and possibly play testing them yourselves, if possible) on the best choice you can afford. Normally this will be on forum feedbacks, product reviews, your choice of tip opening, facing size, baffle, etc.

Several named and established companies are Vandoren, Otto Link, Meyer, Jody Jazz, Morgan, Berg Larsen, and others, who make a wide range of pieces for you to go cuckoo over what's best for you. I was initially treading on a Vandoren V5 or a V16 (~USD100) range, but then found out a Meyer (~USD80) piece was better value for money. Although it does depend on what you're looking for in the type of sound you're after, as you progress in your practice and ability.

I've placed an order online at http://www.wwbw.com/ and will be waiting for the shipment to arrive (free postage since its hand carried by my good friend, otherwise postage will be another USD30).

Tipbook for Saxophone

Recently I chanced upon a really interesting read (about the saxophone instrument of course), whilst browsing around in Bentley Music (Kota Damansara). Its a vertical-shaped pocket book series titled "Tipbook", something like the "Dummies" range.

This company publishes information on everything about a particular musical instrument, suitable for beginners-with-questions to pros-with-experience. Retailing at RM40.00, I thought it was pretty reasonable, looking at the amount of information contained within it.

Do a search online for some of the reviews available, they're mostly quite positive to this book. And, I think there's a new revision with a newly designed cover. Though I still like the one I got (pic below).

Rico Hemke reeds

Past 3 months since my last posting, have been diligently practicing Book 2 pieces (and completing it after 6 months of work), and some additional materials by tutor. Nothing much to post during that period as they were mostly repetitious work.

This post is to mention that after a few months of playing, there's a motivation to improve on my standings in terms of skill and equipment. Since skill is a measure which takes time to achieve, equipment on the other hand is much easier to attain.

It's good to start with minor adjustment to the saxophone equipment list, such as

- upgrading reeds (different brand, stronger rating, file & cut styles),

- changing mouthpiece (material change to higher grade plastic, ebonite, steel),

- and the grandest of all; change your saxophone (of course this depends a lot on your budget).

All this fun in upgrading is most worthwhile if you keep in mind that most of the time, the skill and practice you put in makes the most difference to the sound. And not the best equipment you buy.

I went and bought a piece of Rico Hemke reed (RM10/pc) and Vandoren Java (RM19/pc) from Bentley Music at Kota Damansara (located opposite Ikea). Tried the Hemke 2.5 rating reed and surprisingly it was easy to blow on the first try. Giving a steady bright sound. Its supposed to be a 'jazz' series range. Probably not too skilled to pull off the 'jazz' motion yet.

Normally the normal Rico reeds I buy (RM5/pc) needs to 'warm up' a few rounds before the sound steadies. This Hemke reed has a better quality cane and is french filed.

Have not tried the Vandoren piece yet. Will update on next posting.

Saxophone Pub @ Bangkok

A while back I was in Bangkok for a short break. Before the trip I was curious about the jazz scene there and was recommended to visit "Saxophone Pub". It is easily accessible from Bangkok's main Sukhumvit area. You can either go by BTS (30min) or taxi (10min) to the Victory Monument along Phayathai Road .

Their 'popular' saxophonist is Mr Koh Saxman (endorser of P.Mauriat saxophones) who performs every Monday midnight. Here are some photos when I was there. After the photos are few of his performances on youtube.com.

[entrance]

[dim, small, nostalgic setup]

[memorabilia hangups]

[the stage]

[mr koh saxman]

2 months on and halfway through Book 2

Been on a lapse period from posting here for 2 months since January. Book 2's journey is already past the halfway mark, making its way into the 3rd quarter. Slowly but surely. It's actually a more engaging book for beginners because the variation in pieces and style.

As always, I need to practice practice practice. Otherwise a few days of not doing so will leave my embouchure weaker, incurring the numbness effect after doing a few scales. Occasionally looking at videos from youtube.com helps keep the inspiration and curiosity up.

A New Tune A Day - Book 2

Started on "Book 2 : A New Tune A Day".

When I began Book 1, I flipped through the pages up until the end to get a glimpse of what to expect. I thought to myself, "This is soooo hard". Surprisingly, after 4 months of work it wasn't so hard after all.

But then looking at Book 2, I'm thinking to myself "This is sooo hard"...

Saxophone MIDI Controllers

Below are some of the more popular 'synthesised' or 'electric' versions of a saxophone.

Since there are electric guitars, electric violin, electric piano, I'd suppose an electric saxophone shouldn't cause too much concern.

Yamaha WX5

Akai EWI USB

Akai EWI 4000s

Broken mouthpiece

I was tightening the ligature (circular piece that holds the reed onto the mouthpiece) to start my eagerly-awaited Book 2 practice session; venturing into semi-quavers; when my unfortunate fingers slipped and dropped the mouthpiece onto the floor. It made a small chip on the corner edge, enough to decommission my piece into the bin.

Checked with my tutor whether it was necessary to try another brand/type, but he recommended to maintain use of a Yamaha alto saxophone 4C. It'll cost me RM100 to replace.

Here are the 'casualty' photos;

T-Square

The video above is a performance by Mr Takeshi Ito (of T-Square group) doing a heart-felt rendition of 'Forgotten Saga' piece. When I first heard this, it was truly an amazingly written piece and perfectly performed. And because it was in a grainy, nostalgic, monochrome (meaning black & white) video, the only 'colours' heard were his music.

"T-Square" is a 30 year old band (since 1978!!!) from Japan, comprising talented musicians in drums, piano, guitar and saxophone. Though their group has had changes in its members (and group name) over the past few decades, they've still remained popular till today. Read about it from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/T-Square_(band)

Now I've to go find their album.

New reeds

When old reeds has served its purpose and begin to sound squeaky (for me it'll be in 1-2 months, depending on frequency of practice), I reach for a new one. This is for me to find out if I sound bad, or perhaps its just the reeds need replacing. Playing with bad reeds is demotivating as you'll doubt your ability.

However, new reeds need to be 'broken into' first before they sound well. Because they're new, its structure is still a little 'stiff', so to warm them up I do a few long notes then a few staccato. Probably best to leave it soaking in a spoon (I use a chinese soup spoon) a little longer than usual.

Currently am using a basic Rico #2. Will upgrade to a better range/brand a little further on. So far #2 hardness still works ok for me.

I do have a Rico Plasticover #2 to alternately play it once a while. Although, they're more suited for outdoor/band use because of their 'louder' nature.