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.

MPO Jazz Camp

Attended Malaysia Philharmonik's first Jazz Camp today for a 90-minute performance by an international mix of talented performers. It had a 6 man band; piano, double bass, drums, saxophone, trumpet and trombone.

Generally a full house audience which had a good mix of local and foreign guests. For RM30/person, it was a reasonable price for such a good performance. Each man had (on almost most pieces they played) a solo exhibition of their talent.

They're here for a 5-day Jazz Camp event organised by MPO to showcase and share their experiences with our local talents. Some of the musicians are regularly featured at Alexis Ampang, in case you're interested to "take in" some jazz experience.

I was there basically to watch Greg Lyons' performance. It was rather good, though not much solo time as I guess the focus was on the international performers. Unfortunately it wasn't as fun to listen as trombone, trumpet and drums.

More of the man himself can be found here; http://www.greglyons.net/

*forgive me for the non-existent musicians' name to their respective instrument, as I've forgotten them*

Returning back...

Been a long break I took from writing on this blog, about 2 months since.

November pretty much had very little practice, or made any much changes in improvements.

December was a bit better because had more time from the weekly Friday public holidays.

Almost completing Book 1 lessons (took about 4 months) and trying to prep myself for Book 2.

It will be much harder in fingering, learning shorter notes (therefore faster), and paying the increase in lesson fees from Yamaha. Well, the price for improvement...

Have taken to learning scales continuously, which I find improves my fingering and note recognition (sight, mind, sound and finger co-ordination).

So far have done the following;

C major (no sharps & flats),

A major (F, C, G sharp)

D major (F, C sharp)

G major (F sharp)

Bflat major (B, E flat)

C minor

C Chromatic

Normally I'll start off my practice sessions (normally 1 hour) with the following;

Setup - greasing cork, moistening reeds, book placement, air-cond, close curtains/blinds/doors

Long notes - from low C to high D, holding a full breath on each note

Scales - like the above then adding a new scale once a week/month

Book 1 - at least 4 lessons, from past 2 lessons then current then next week's chapter

Cooling down playing long notes

Cleaning up

The metronome/tuner will be placed alongside to assist me. I'll use its dual-purpose nature (tuning and metronome) depending on what the practice requires.

Julian Smith - Britain's Got Talent 2009

It always warms my heart whenever I view Julian Smith's performance (he's a finalist in Britain's Got Talent 2009 show). Though we don't get the show here in Malaysia, there are numerous views available on youtube.

Basically the 1st video you see below is Julian Smith playing the soprano saxophone at the talent show with Simon Cowell as one of the three judges. His performance was very simple and short, but the it held an immense amount of emotion, talent and evident 15 years of training.

As you continue to view the semi-finals and then the finals, each time the crowds were wowed with his ability and humility.

//1st performance//

//Semi-final performance//

//Finals performance//

Though he only got 3rd in the talent show, do some search in youtube and you'll come to see some of his other performances. This video below is his wedding night performance doing Kenny G's popular 'Songbird'. Quite amazing in that he sounds almost as good.

Beginners little guide

-Here's just a brief answer to a question I received from an email about learning the saxophone-

Saxophone comes in several shapes, here are a few of the popular ones; soprano, alto, tenor, baritone.

It is easier for beginners to start with an alto saxophone because of its size and ease of playing.

A soprano may be shorter in length than an alto, but it is more complex to learn its keys and produce a good tone.

Whereas a tenor is larger than an alto, therefore requiring more strength to support it and needs more air to blow it.

And baritone is larger than a tenor, so no need to mention much there.

Several popular brands include Yamaha, Selmer, Yanagisawa, Keilwerth, Jupiter. In Malaysia, mostly you'll see Yamaha, Jupiter and Selmer. All these brands have student models (~RM2-5k) up to professional (>RM15k). It is recommended to own a saxophone because of convenience in practicing and getting used to its structure. I don't think there's many places that rent them.

Searching around for 2nd hand units are also economical and easy, like from online sites (ebay, lelong, etc.), classifieds, friends recommendation, etc. But do be careful in its condition because you may need to invest a little in getting it fixed, do some tuning, replace the springs/pads, etc.

If you intend to buy a new student unit, a Yamaha YAS23/YAS275 is around RM5k, Selmer USA is around RM3k, Jupiter is around RM2k. You can find them in some of the local music stores in Klang Valley; Chambers Music (Sungei Wang 3rd floor), Bentley Music (opposite The Curve), Yamaha Music (Kelana Jaya HQ); to name a few.

In terms of classes, you could start with either going to a school (like Yamaha, music colleges) or find a private tutor (teach in their house or your house). Generally classes are about 30 minutes long, although some tutors will teach 45/60 minutes weekly or twice a month. Prices vary according to tutors' experience, skill, reputation. I'm taking mine now in Yamaha Music School, Subang Parade, because I prefer learning in a 'musical' environment and (somewhat) structured course.

In summary, the overall learning of saxophone (or any other musical instrument) is that it has to be FUN for you so that you will continously make the conscious effort to practice as much as possible (I try about an hour every day).

And then keep wanting to get better and better everyday. Having some goals in sight, as to what you want out of the whole experience, does help give you some perspective and focus.

Doing some online research and you may be able to find some good 2nd hand deals if you look hard enough.

ABRSM Scales and Arpeggios

Bought an "ABRSM Publishing" material for some fingering and key practices, Scales and Arpeggios for Saxophone. Generally started with C Major, D Major, F Major, G Major scales and the arpeggios.

Somehow having all body parts (5 left hand fingers, 5 right hand fingers, embouchure, blowing, eye sight reading, thinking), to coherently work together is a tough thing to do when practicing the scales.

Intelli IMT-204 Tuner/Metronome

Unfortunately the BOSS TU-80 couldn't be exchanged for a KORG TM-40 due to stock unavailability. Instead, Chambers Music has stock loads of the INTELLI IMT-204. There isn't much information on the net about this brand, despite it having a "Made In Korea" printed on the box. The better branding BOSS was "Made In China", and is RM30 cheaper than the INTELLI (at RM120).

Either way, tried the unit and it is simple enough for beginners to use. It has a very sensitive mic that picks up (and gives you a note) from musical tunes to normal chatter. Yup, it tells you what note you're in when you say, "How you doing..."...

Its smaller than the BOSS and fits well into your pocket. At the back there's a convenient flip-out stand for tilting, unlike the BOSS unit which requires monetary contribution to make it stand (put a 20cent in the rear slot, and it angles out as a stand).

This 4-in-1 features;

- Chromatic Tuner

- Guitar Tuner

- Metronome

- Pitch Generator

Rico Plasticover

Rico Plasticover reeds are a range which has its surface coated with a plastic layer, acting to protect it from moist and warping. This allows it for outdoor (eg. band) or long playing uses.

I've bought a unit (at RM12.50/pc, twice the price of Rico plain) to test it out against the normal Rico reed. The pictures below show the difference in the surface; front and back side.

As you can see in the last frontal side picture, there's some warping on the plain reed as compared to the Plasticover after usage. Water doesn't absorb into the Plasticover's reed, whereas the plain reed has marks on it (last picture). I felt Plasticover allows me longer hours of playing and still feel as new as when I bought them.