I am almost 40 years old and played a clarinet for 5 years up to age 15. I haven`t touched an instrument since, but I am considering buying a soprano sax which has always been my favorite instrument.
Does anyone have any advise for me? Such as where to buy beginner method books for the soprano, what model soprano to buy, if I should just forget about this crazy idea because it`s impossible (even with professional instruction), etc. I am considering the Yamaha YSS-475.

Thanks for any advice.

Rick

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Hi Rick,

First, it’s a great idea returning to the world of music. There is NOTHING silly about it. I’ve picked up the Tenor Sax, again, after a fifteen-year break. It was surprised how much I remembered. As a younger man, my musical perspective was very narrow. The musical world consisted only of marching band music. Now, I’m familiar with a variety of music and styles.

For me, making music is fun and relaxing. Music is one of my more healthy hobbies. It’s a great escape from the everyday world.

There people who will tell you NOT to begin with the Soprano Sax and recommend the Alto. It’s said to be the most difficult saxophone to master. I say Pooh! Play the Soprano if that’s your thing. The Soprano has been growing in popularity. Thanks to folk like Kenny G.

Yamaha is a good choice of a horn and is pretty much universally tolerated if not respected. I own a Yamaha and I am very happy with it. If you can afford a teacher you should get one. As for a good instruction book, I recommend “Universal Method for Saxophone” by Paul Deville, ISBN: 082580146X. I also liked "The Art of Saxophone Playing" by Larry Teal. It’s a good complimentary source of information.

I wish you the best of luck.