Whether you're a beginner or an experienced saxophone player, the mouthpiece will be one of the most essential elements to creating the sound you desire. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which tenor saxophone mouthpieces will best suit your style and skill level. Because your mouthpiece will have to be replaced many times over the life of your instrument, you'll want to understand the basics so you are able to make an informed decision when the time comes. Most manufacturers will offer a Jazz Tenor and Tenor option, both of which have unique qualities and sound.

Understanding the Components of Tenor Saxophone Mouthpieces

All sax mouthpieces have basic parts, an understanding of which will be helpful as you search for the best one for your playing. Different mouthpiece options will have unique features, which will yield variations in response, vibration, and stability, as well as the overall sound. The main parts of a mouthpiece are:

• Table—The table will be where your clamp the reed. Located by the ligature, the table needs to be flat in order to avoid squeaks and other distortions.

• Chamber-This is the cavity inside the main body. The chamber's size and shape will have a major impact on the sound produced by the mouthpiece. Modern mouthpieces tend to have a smaller chamber, which typically creates a brighter tone.

• Rails-This refers to the sides of the mouthpiece along the reed. Rails should be symmetrical and come in varying thickness, which will affect the sound.

• Tip-The tip of the mouthpiece should line up with the tip of the reed. Different makers will create variations in tip measurement, which is how they create a unique product from other manufacturers.

• Lay (Facing Curve)-The curved part of the tip, which allows the reed to vibrate and thus create sound.

• Shank-This is the part of the mouthpiece that joins onto the saxophone's neck.

• Baffle-This is present on modern mouthpieces and is what allows the airstream to flow faster and easier, which yields a brighter sound.

• Ligature-This is what clamps the reed to the mouthpiece.

• Dimensions-This changes based on manufacturer and player preference. Many believe tenor saxophone mouthpieces with a wider tip opening will use a softer reed and can be easier to play. The dimensions of your mouthpiece should be tested out so you can find one that is comfortable and ideal for your playing style.

Why Choose Drake Tenor Saxophone Mouthpieces?

When you're on the market for mouthpieces for your tenor sax, Drake Mouthpieces has plenty of options. Regarded as one of the leading manufacturers of alto, Bari, soprano, and tenor saxophone mouthpieces, Drake carries tenor mouthpiece options including Studio, New York, "Son of Slant", and many others. When you're ready to shop the best inventory of top quality tenor, alto, soprano, and Bari mouthpieces for all skill levels, visit www.DrakeMouthpieces.com.