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).