Hi there,
Considering investing in a student soprano sax - am new to woodwind.
Thanks for ok-ing my forum application!
Ric
Welcome to the WF Ric. Nice to have you aboard.
I take it by your post that you have never played any woodwind before? No clarinet, flute, oboe, etc. in your background? The reason I ask, is because soprano saxophone is not necessarily the easiest saxophone to learn to play on.
Soprano saxophones are finicky little creatures, that require a fair amount of embouchure control. Also, there are a great many brands of student models horns that are absolute junk. These junky horns--that I like to call POC horns--many times are badly built and are not capable of playing in tune. That's why when buying a student model soprano--especially as a beginner--I
strongly suggest that you work with a
good teacher to help you get started the right way. I used to work with new students all the time, before they started to play, and helped them get a good saxophone.
If you don't have access to a saxophone instructor, or really do want to go this alone, I strongly encourage you to go with a company like
Kessler Music. Dave Kessler is a member of this forum, and is a really stand-up guy. He will help you get the sax you want, and make sure that what you're getting is a quality item. Yes, you will spend a few more dollars for a student model Kessler brand horn than you would for a POC horn off eBay, or a no-name dealer, but Dave stands behind his products. And if on the off-chance there ever is a problem with a horn he sells you, they will make it right. Oh, I should mention, Kessler also sells other brands as well, so you don't necessarily have to get a Kessler-branded horn. All the horns they sell go through their shop before going out to the customer however. This is an important step, and something that doesn't happen if you buy one of those cheap eBay horns.
Hope has been somewhat helpful. What do you think? If you want more info, feel free post under the appropriate section here, or you can PM me if you like.
Again, welcome Ric. I hope you enjoy the WF.