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On April 21, 2008 Giardinelli moved to its new home with The Woodwind & Brasswind. Since 1978 the professional musicians staffed at The Woodwind and Brasswind (wwbw.com) have been committed to helping musicians and music educators achieve their musical goals, from beginner saxophones, trumpets, clarinets, and violins to professional flutes, oboes, and tubas. Learn More »

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Saxophone Buyer's Guide

Some of the Questions Answered Below

What level of saxophone is right for me?
How does the material affect the sound?
Tell me more about the saxophone's special keys.

Saxophone Breakdown

section #1

The Saxophone Family (high to low)

Sopranino (Eb)
Soprano (Bb)
Alto (Eb)
Tenor (Bb)
Baritone (Eb)
Bass (Bb)

Saxophone Categories

section #2

Student Saxophones: Student saxophones ore designed for the beginner and meant to provide an excellent start for the first years of playing. Most student saxophones are relatively easy to play, produce a pleasant tone and feel comfortable in the beginner’s hands. Teacher-Recommended Student Saxophones

Intermediate (Step-Up) Saxophones: Once a student is established and has mastered the fundamentals of good playing, it’s important to purchase an instrument that will help continue their growth. Intermediate saxophones, while not sporting the fancy handwork of professional models, produce very good tone and feature key work similar to that of the highest quality saxophones. Recommended Intermediate Saxophones

Professional Saxophones: Designed and constructed with the professional musician in mind, these saxophones have excellent response, intonation and tone. They usually are adorned with attractive handwork, like hand-hammered keys and hand engraving. They also are offered in clear or colored lacquer finishes and silver or gold plating. Recommended Professional Saxophones

View Recommended Instruments:

Body Materials

section #2

featuring

Selmer La Vie Alto Saxophone

Lacquered Brass:: By far, the majority of saxophones worldwide are constructed of clear or gold lacquered brass.
Black Lacquer / Matte Finish:: Black or Matte lacquer is heavier than clear or gold and adds weight to the body of the instrument. This finish is extremely popular for tenor saxophones for producing a thick, husky sound.
Silver Plating:: Like black lacquer, silver plating adds weight to the saxophone to darken and center the tone. Because the plating is harder than lacquer, this option adds greater volume and projection.
Nickel Plating:: Due to its extreme hardness, nickel plating offers the greatest projection and brightest sound. Nickel plating is a favorite among jazz players.
Copper / Bronze:: Being heavier and softer than brass, copper and bronze saxophones offer the darkest and most covered timbres.

Special Keys

section #2

High F#:: Allows the player to play an altissimo (above high C) F# by adding a single key.
High G:: Allows the player to play an altissimo (above high C) G by adding a single key.
Front F:: Allows for playing the altissimo F by using an index finger key on the front of the saxophone.
Tilted Spatulas:: Tilting a spatula, or pinky key, allows for a more comfortable,secure hold.