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