My first horn that I ever learned was a Boston soprano saxophone. I was very determined to play it because a sales person from a Sam Ash store in Paramus New Jersey told me that it was almost Impossible to learn as your first saxophone. My answer is, that’s not true 👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿 Rico Blue
This is a great review! I started with soprano and did experience lots of factors you mentioned. My ultimate favourite is Jan Garbarek especially when playing Parce Mihi Domine with The Hilliard Ensemble. This is what made me give up clarinet and change to Soprano. No one told me how difficult it could be! I went on about it so long, that for my 70th Birthday my wife Trish bought me a Soprano!
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool not too bad at all. I found out quickly that certain Mouthpieces play in tune better than others. My Rousseau classic 5 is always flat across the horn. My Windycity mouthpiece is slightly sharp, which is fine. Thanks for your videos.
Nigel, you are absolutely correct regarding the Soprano being difficult. I am new to Soprano Sax, never played a sax before. However, I just love the sound it keeps me movitated. I practice about 1 1/2 hours each day with a TE Tuner. Since I never played before I don't know what's easy or what's hard. I just know learning an instrument takes time and practice. It can be frustrating. For me playing the Soprano is like a hobby, I am retired and a member of McGill Music School. Thanks for your words about Soprano Sax. PS: I want to sound like Art Porter.
Branford Marsalis is my benchmark. He has many different sounds from "Treat it Gentle" (like Sidney Bechet), "La Valse Kendall" (ethereal near-classical), to his solos with Sting such as on "An Englishman in New York." Wow!
Courtney Pine for me - The 37th Chamber, UK representing! Ive seen him a number of times and he switches between Alto & Soprano . I love his phrases and accessibility with his choice of covers and own work.
I dont care how "hard" this is. Im going to practice and conquer it. I've gotten to intermediate level with piano and guitar... I started on clarinet in middle school so woodwind instruments arent foreign to me. I tried a soprano sax a few times that was a cheaper one with mechanical flaws so it didnt really motivate me to want to play it all that much. This time around I think ill invest a little more money into it and have a luthier on speedial. Soprano here I come
Hi there good tone lovers and altissimo squeezers, my first instrument was and is the Bb Clarinet. After years of practicing long tones throughout the chromatic scale, I have a reasonable sound on the clarinet. My rhythmic abilities when it comes to sheetmusic are still poorly. But my good tone always gets me some admirers. So practice long tones every DAY if you blow in any kind of horn and never forget that others may want to play with you - so feel the rhythem and get it right too !!! Later on I added a Tenor and Altosax and whilst I was at it I got soprano sax too. I love it because it´s the closest instrument to an oboe, considering single reed instruments. And not unlike the oboe you have only very little to put between your lips. So Mr. McGill is right - the only thing that helps is the practice time you put into a wonderful sound. What that may be, is up to you, but it definately helps to listen - lets say just as much as you practice. I wonder why noone so far mentioned GROVER WASHINGTON JR.. Just Listen to what he does on an Soprano Sax - he is exelent! I now even play a Bassclarinet down to low C. And although some of you may think ok hés got a few woodwind horns - I´d like to say: „Every of these instruments is a diffrent planet!” And unless yoúve got tons of time - it´s better to get familiar with one planet and try and make that one planet beautyful. For those, like me, who have an unreasonable urge to experiment with more than one - keep in mind yoúll most likely be the master of NONE - unless your first name is Nigel ;-) BUT each instrument can teach you somthing. The clarinet teaches you to love Mozart and how sweet an altissimo can sound, whilst the Chalumeau Register makes you lose your bearings. It can teach you the sound of crying and laughing and everything in between. The Bass Clarinet teaches you what VOICING is and how little air yoúve really got under your ripps. So take a deep breath and think HOME and than try to be efficient with your airstream. The Tenor Sax can teach you how a big instrument can sound lovely when played Pianissimo. The Alto Sax has tought me that instruments made in China for very little money can sound great and that it´s better to practice and improve your playing than to buy the new Selmer Supreme. So realy its not so much about gear as some Music-Schools like to tell us ;-) Uuupps, no I didńt mean almost every online school - I suppose the teachers just cańt make enough money out of playing and teaching their instruments - which is sad to say, cause in that case we should rather play football. 😉 The Soprano Sax teaches you to be humble. No we cańt be good with every woodwind - unless we are willing to put the time and afford in it takes. So pay respect to all the people that are in the progress of making music. Even someone playing recorder today might end up blowing us all away one day, by performing that one peace of music which is closest to the heart, with an Armenian DUDUK - as happend in the opening scene of The Gladiator. The Soprano Sax is a wonderful instrument you can cry and laugh with, if you willing to give it not a try but your respectful attention and time. Loads of Gemütlichkeit from Germany - Excuse my bad english Ím still in progress All the best. wishes - Elmar
Close to Kenny’s sound in the middle, but not up high. He’s a bit brighter there. My favs on soprano are Bill Evans, Jeff Kashiwa and Mark Johnson (early 1990 on JVC label)
Great video, thanks. I’m a past clarinet player from my youth, and just bought a soprano sax as love the sound, especially Kenny G. Working hard to improve and loving it!
Kenny G plays on a Dukoff D8. The Jody Jazz custom dark simply won't output that kind of sound if you're going for the 'Kenny G' sound. Also, mic placement needs to be right in front of the bell to get that high pitched tinny "oboe" sound, not to the side where it will come out more warmly. I'm sure you already are well versed in all of this :) Your sound is beautiful regardless. Great video!
Wonderful video...and yes it is so difficult to get a good sound on the soprano because the instrument is not supporting you, you have to do it all yourself with a very clear sound idea in your mind i must say i hear a lot to trumpet players like Chet Baker or Clark Terry and Roy Hargrove on flugelhorn as a guide to my soprano sound, they are in the same register but the flugelhorn is more focused and i try to get this very precise intonation and focus and separation between the notes
I prefer your tone to Kenny G's. My first soprano arrives tomorrow and I'm very excited to get started. I'm already a decent clarinet, alto and tenor sax player, so it's a development instrument for me.
I played clarinet for ten years before playing soprano saxophone about 5 years after buying my first alto. I had already learned not to bite the mouthpiece when playing high notes. I think playing clarinet first helped. I like Sidney Bechet, Woody Herman when on soprano
Good information. As mentioned below, Branford is a fantastic soprano player. When I was in school I was captivated by Jan Garbarek's soprano sound, especially with Keith Jarrett. I have owned YSS-62, Selmer SA80 serie I, and now a Yanagisawa 991. Love the 991. I have a metal BARI mouthpiece for a bright (and loud) sound and use my Selmer S80 E opening for 90% of my soprano work.
My favourite soprano sax player/sound is Lucky Thompson playing ‘In a sentimental mood’ from the 1965 album ‘Lucky Strikes’. A sublime and ethereal sound. Worth checking out.
I know to most jazz players think Kenny G is a joke. But I got into to soprano saxophone because of him. I've listened to his music since 1985!! Getting then on cassette tape and then later on DVD! I would love to play like him!!
People are just mad that Kenny became rich. He commercialized Jazz music. Kenny's control, tone and flawless use of Circular Breathing are second to none. Listen to G Walkin' of Kenny... Esp at the end.
I think, there are 2 caveats with playing the soprano sax: 1. Because it's short, the instrument must be made to far better specs + precision than people's usual alto or tenor. That increases the cost. 2. The embouchure. Usual embouchure makes it much harder to play, because it can't sufficiently control the tiny reed.
Agree fully. The soprano is far less forgiving than the other common three types. And yes… you really have to be careful with equipment and get the best equipment possible.
My set ups on my Selmer Serie III soprano are a Selmer Super Session 7* + Legere 2.25, a Phil Tone Sapphire .067 + Legere 2.0 and a Syos Tyvon Pennicott 7* + Legere 2.25. The Phil Tone is by far my preferred set up. Working the Ravel’s Bolero, the Schindler’s List and Gabriel’s Oboe at the moment. Good video, thanks Nigel
i think the difference is with kenny g is that he has a sharp sound when it comes to high notes. your sounds is smooth as you transition from low notes to high.
I just bought a yanagisawa white curved soprano. I’m trying to get those nice warm fuzzy tones and not so bright and edgy. Sweet and sensual type sounds. But I’ve only been playing on it for a few days and I can almost reach the full range of the horn. It is a major difference from my Yamaha custom EXB alto. It’s a big learning curve
I've got a Trevor James soprano sax, and haven't tried changing the mouthpiece yet. I use Vandoren 3 and Hemker 3 reeds. I do find that when I go up really high the tuning goes really off!!!! I may well change the mouthpiece to a Selmer C Star. I've only been playing my soprano since last Christmas, so it's early days! You're absolutely right in what you say that soprano sax is very challenging, but I'm practising as hard as I can to improve. I've had lots of squeaks and split notes, and problems with intonation up the top register. Still very much work in progress! I haven't got a tuner yet, need to buy one, and I would love to play with a backing track. Playing with a backing track is something I've yet to try, but definitely in my plans! Thank you so much for your excellent videos, really superb!! Bless you hun. Xxx
I grew up listening to Sydney Bechet on soprano and clarinet. His wide vebrato was powerful as was his improvising. I now have a Yamaha YSS 475 but play tenor most of the time. As others have said, picking up the soprano now and again is not ideal.
Kenny G. Not my taste in music but he found a niche. You come pretty close. I guess he keeps his bank manager very happy so kudos to him. Don't know what effects he uses and his vibrato is unusual.
Erm..a, I find soprano easier and tenor tougher. But I'm most comfortable with an Alto ; it's half a soprano in pitch and it's really easy to run scales up to three octaves in one breath.
Hi there, thank you for your highly informative and excellent video! I'm going to start learning the soprano this coming year, as my husband has just bought me one two days ago, feeling super excited!! I've been playing the alto sax since 1982, and recently decided to take up the soprano. I play piano, flute, alto saxophone, church organ and a little clarinet, and I help to lead worship at our local parish church. I'm really looking forward to starting to play the soprano there too, and I hope that I will be able to double it with the alto. Anyway, gently gently, I'm just really looking forward to getting started learning, and it's certainly good to know that the fingerings for all saxophones are the same. Here's to a very exciting 2023 learning to play the soprano saxophone!! Very best wishes from Carolyn King (from the UK).
Thanks for your sharing. Kenny G is using Dukoff D8 with his Mark VI. That is the horn he start to use since high school. Your sound is very close to his by using HR Dark. Glad to hear your sound. That makes my motion to get a jodyjazz.
I’ve spent just over 2 years playing nothing but my soprano and I’m finally happy with my soprano tone and my tuning is virtually spot on throughout the range although the altissimo does take some practice. It’s not an instrument you can just jump on now and then and hope to do it justice. I’ve also been doing some Kenny G stuff recently and the thing you’re lacking Nigel is the hair, I’ll send my Kenny G wig over it makes all the difference..😉
I’m a 50 yr. pro and feel that tenor is toughest for me, though it was my primary horn. I find alto a breeze and soprano between it and tenor. Not sure I’d recommend a student start with soprano, but I think that the level of difficulty is overrated by several video makers on UA-cam. If you’re a competent saxophonist with a good ear hesitating about starting soprano, don’t! Nigel is so right about mouthpiece choice. I’d like to put in a plug for Soprano Planet where Joe G really works with a player to get their sound. Thanks
The person whose sound that I would most like to emulate is Theresa Killgo Morgan. She has a sweet mellow sound like I have never heard before. It will never happen but, never hurts to dream!
My fav Soprano players: Grover Washington, Jr Kenny G Gerald Albright Cannonball A. Also, Nigel you are a pro sax player and your soprano playing is really great! When I play the soprano I sound like a clarinetist and not a saxophonist... Is that "normal" when doubling from Alto or Tenor saxes to soprano sax?
Thanks Bobby! It does take a while to get a good soprano tone. You have some great players there to model from so just try to copy THEIR sound when you play. You’ll get there!
I like the following soprano sax tones better than Kenny G (best to last): 1) Grover Washington Jr. 2) Jay Beckenstein 3) Ronnie Laws 4) Kenny Garrett (The Other Kenny G) 5) Branford Marsalis 6) John Klemmer
That’s a great list! All excellent musicians, if I was to add more contemporary saxophonist to your list it would be: Najee, Gerald Albright, George Howard and Art Porter
@@DeltonBoswell Oooooh, Najee! I forgot about him. Yes, I do like his soprano a lot. I loved his cover of Anita Baker's "Sweet Love". I may have missed Gerald Albright's soprano work.
@@ketong71 yes! That is one of my favorite songs of his. As for Gerald Albright “Beautiful like you ft Will Downing” is a great song to listen to. 🎧 🎷 🎼
I have a Durga 3 size 7 and use Java 2.5 reeds which helps tone down the brightness and it is an absolutely beautiful mouthpiece. I also have a Dukoff D8 same as Kenny G and that is also an amazing mouthpiece. The D8 requires daily practice regime to maintain the embouchure and if you leave a gap for too long you'll notice it drastically next time so requires absolute dedication. The soprano is for me the number 1 of the saxes and then alto which I also play and have a Durga 4 size 7, JJ Superjet 7, Beechler HR diamond inlay, and a few Syos mouthpieces for Alto and Soprano. I also have the Yani HR 6 that came with my Yani SW01. My alto is a YAS 62. As you can probably tell I love the saxophone. I started aged 12. Was inspired by Kenny G of course but since then I love Najee, Paul Taylor, NELSON RANGELL is absolutely amazing, Gerald Albright, Dave Koz, Kamasi Washington, and many others. You are technically very high Nigel but in my humble opinion, you can't replicate Kenny's sound without using the D8 and Hemke 2.5 or similar reeds. There's just something about that mouthpiece that adds the brightness and allows the huge vibrato also the big 8 tip opening...
On alto, I use a Selmer S80 C* and an Otto Link 4. Somehow, the C* has a brighter, edgier tone than the Otto Link, despite being a classical mouthpiece.
There's a young UA-camr who primarily plays soprano sax on his channel. His name is Jared Drake. He has kind of an eclectic style but he's a superb player. I like his sound and would like to kind of gravitate in that direction.
I’ve always be inspired by Grover Washington Jr’s nice warm tone on Soprano. You are so right the Selmer C* is very easy to control, like you I’ve used it for years on my curved Soprano .
I have But Grover Washington many times before he passed away and yes he has been a big influence in my playing . And I definitely always loved his soprano sound.
@@anthonyharris478 I have most of Grover’s works on cassette and some LP’s. Since his’s passing Ive heard one Soprano player that I do like ,Marion Meadows (Magic Man) .
I was a new saxophone player 1 year ago, got a soprano never played any of the other saxophones, been playing on a Rico B5 and vandoren reeds, still have a few issues but im getting closer to the sound im looking for. Been listening to a Bryan Thompson on UA-cam alot
Hi I have b5 and b7 rico using it with vandoren 1 reeds.B7 is easier to control for some reason.if you are using b5 i strongly suggest you to switch to b7 with 1 strength vandoren reeds.sound is bright with reverb
To play like Kenny g you must use a Effects Processor .Put it on Grand Hall or Reverb.You already have a great sound probably greater .I sound exactly like Kenny g using Mic Processors .Most say ,I am Miming, but I am not😅😅
Definitely my favorite soprano player (contemporary jazz) is George Howard, my favorite song is “Hopscotch” from his 1991 album “Love and Understanding” 👌🏽🎵🎷
As a tenor player, I had always assumed that soprano would be easier because of the similar key that both are in(B-flat). But adjusting the embachure and breath control along with the mouthpiece would be quite a challenge , especially, if you want to do doubling. Some bands like doublers or multiples because if there are requests for music by Kenny G or other songs that feature a soprano solo or the song is played on soprano. My favorite soprano player? Hard to say. The first four that come to my mind is John Coltrane, Kenny G, Dave Koz (though, he alto more than soprano, but I may be wrong). Paul Taylor (the first time I ever saw him was in the public television concert presentation of Keiko Matsui’s Light Above The Trees. The saxophonist in her band was also very good). It was on VHS back in the days. It hasn’t had a DVD or Blu-ray release. I had bought two of Kenny G’s music books and Songbird and Silhouette were quite difficult for me to play. I think I needed to really have a feel for the those songs. Listening is one thing. Playing is another. I tried to play John Coltrane’s rendition of “My Favorite Things.” I had to play the song in a different key than I and everyone else in the world who still listens to this iconic piece. Nigel, you are very close to sounding like Kenny G on Coming Home. Bravo. Bravo.🎷😎👏👍
I picked up soprano this year. I was shocked that I could barely get a note out in the first week. After about 6 weeks, 2 dozen different reeds and 3 mouthpieces, everything started to click. The Selmer concept worked for me in the beginning, but after I figured out how the embouchure really worked I moved over to the yanagisawa mouthpiece with the 2 3/4 legere Reed. One thing that still puzzles me is the very very precise location on the cork for the mouthpiece. If it isn't exactly right within 1mm, it isn't just out of tune, but I also get some kind of vibrating double tone on some of the lower notes. Maybe I already need a tune up?
Could be a mechanical issue Eric. I’d get it looked at. Tuning is always challenging. A small movement of your mouthpiece makes a big difference when the instrument is smaller!
I think Emma McPhilemy sounds fantastic. She has been music director with the touring company of Riverdance and plays the whole show memorized. Her sound is so dark but it punches. I think that she is fun to listen to, which is hard for many soprano sax players.
I assumed that the tuning issues were mainly due to the small size, after all, even with tenor small changes in embouchure/air speed in the high notes have more affect on pitch than at the low end.
My favorite saxophone payer is the famous jazzman Stefano du Batista. He succeded to have a homogeneous sound all over the Instrument range. And of course, he technically masters his instrument even in the lowest and the highest notes.
Back in 2018 when I was wanting to get started plyaing saxophone, I had listened to a lot of sporano sax videos and really wanted to get a soprano sax then, but what stopped me was reading that it could be more diffucult to start on and that you have to have a good soprano or it is not going to play well and I didn't have the budget yet for a a decent soprano sax. I instead started on alto sax and I knew at some point, I'd get a soprano sax. Last year my playing was progressing since I wasn't able to go anywhere and I practised every day. I then got my first soprano sax, a Conn-Selmer Advant DSS-200 one peice straight soprano. I played it with a Vandoren SL3 and Legere Signature reeds. My sound was OK but after a while I started to not like the weight of holding it on my right thumb as my right hand and arm would get sore after a while. I also found the neck strap would get in the way of the octave key so I ended up selling it. After upgrading my alto at the end of last year, I decided to get another soprano sax, this time I got a curved Windcraft WSS-200 to deal with the weight issues. I then got a Selmer Concept to play with it. On alto I didn't liked how the Concept responded for me as I stuggled to get a good sound on it, but its become my favourite mouthpiece for classical playing on soprano. I use Legere European Cut clarinet reeds and a BG Duo silver ligature with it for a centered tone and I like the mix of combination of brightness from the reed and smooth round dark tone of the mouthpiece. When I started playing it, I noticed a bit of resistance and I had the tuning issues due to the curved body and had to get used to the left hand pinky keys being angled further left than I am used to but I had no more issues with the weight of holding it. I still need to work on varying my tone to no be so straight (I need to vary my dynamics more, add vibrato, scoops etc..) and while I know alto sax will always be my main instrument, I do enjoy playing soprano sax, especially being in Bb I find it easier playing some music than I do having to transpose for alto sax. I haven't yet found a soprano sax player that I really like. I like Sidney Bechet a lot and his style of playing but don't want to sound like him. The closest I have found I like a lot is when I saw on UA-cam the video "A Thousand Years - Diego Campos Sax- Christina Perri Sax Version" /watch?v=0himUEFf01c I really liked DIego's soprano playing in it and listening to it made me want to play soprano sax. Also "Desperado - Soprano Sax (Greg Hawkins)" watch?v=Puy_3VV3AB4 so I am thinking I would like a tone somewhat like those but a bit darker sounding. Another player is Alistair Gillies as he made 2 albums of himself playing folk tunes on soprano and tenor sax and I liked his playing as it was a little different as you don't normally hear folk tunes like that played on saxophones. I am glad I started on alto first as I had the embochure strength to play the soprano smoothly without a lot of difficulties when I started playing soprano regularly since getting the curved soprano.
Brilliant to hear your soprano journey here Dave. I’m glad you have found a setup you like. If you like Sidney Bechet, tell me what you think of this recording: ua-cam.com/video/sAGj8cElOKU/v-deo.html
For me the best sounding soprano players ever were Bechet’s first pupil Bob Wilber and his colleague in their duetting group called “ Soprano Summit “ Kenny Davern !
This is so inspiring thankyou! Just about to get me a soprano yss 475mk2. Regarding fav soprano players I love the sound Bob Sheppard gets on Kurt Elling ‘Not while I’m around’ it’s gorgeous! Nit forgetting Andy Sheppard?? No relation must be something in that name! 😂
I’ve noticed for me deciding to double on tenor after a few years of soprano only is that the embouchures are different. I noticed for me soprano rewards a tight embouchure but tenor rewards a relaxed but steady embouchure , especially in terms of intonation and control. I’ve heard Sam Newsome talk about soprano embouchure and he said he started off with a tight grip but is learning to relax.
I'd love to be able to play like Ronnie Laws as my favorite soprano player, then Kenny G. They both have that silky smooth sound that I like. Laws, especially, because of the way he melds the jazz and R&B sounds.
Favorite soprano player -- Coltrane on My Favorite Things. None finer than how he makes such a hight and sweet horn sound so dark and sinister on an otherwise cheery song.
(Orla's mom jumping on here...) Jane Ira Bloom does some interesting stuff that brings out the lower register. I like your sound as your sound, Nigel, and the Jody Jazz sounds full and smooth. Knowing her mom watched this video, Orla will be pleased that I can stop bugging her to learn the soprano alongside her tenor ; )
Beautiful video! You explain the complicated world of Curved Soprano Saxes very clearly. I apologize for my question being outside this exact context. I currently face a big unknown. I already own a professional straight soprano (P. Mauriat System 76 Mk II), and I would like to face the adventure of a Curved Soprano. The problem is that there are few curved soprano sax models, but they have price levels at two ends. In fact, we go from a multitude of economic (Chinese) sax to professional ones, and there is little or almost nothing at an intermediate level (and even price). I would like to buy a curved soprano of at least honest and dignified quality, but without spending a fortune. I'm in serious trouble. I would be grateful for a suggestion. Cordial greetings.
I'm not really a soprano guy nor do I have one but there's one player that I really like. His names John Scarpulla, he's been in multiple groups, he's a great player and has a great sound.
Great Video from Down Under look forward to checking out more! I like Paul McCandless of the group Oregon, to my ears his tone sounds woody like an Oboe.
In terms of soprano, I’m a big fan of Mammal Hands. Totally listenable jazz without being cloying and sappy (sorry, I really can’t stand KennyG). But even if you are a fan of his, do check out Mammal Hands. I think you might like them.
To be honest I’m not a big fan of the Kenny G style and sound but I do very much appreciate the Wayne Shorter sound in the early Weather Report years as well as John Coltrane (ie My Favorite Things)
I think that Kenny G is a very good sop sax player but I also listen to (and quite enjoy) Grover Washington Jr. and Branford Marsalis. Your tone and overall playing on the sop is enviable, Nigel! Well done. Thanks for the video.
Hi NigeI, I prefer the soft sound of the clarinet to a soprano sax. In my opinion, the "sexiest" of all Saxes is the Tenor sax, which I play, anyhow. I am thinking about getting an Alto sax too, but I would never exchange the clarinet for a soprano sax. Many greetings from Southeast Asia, Marco
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool Well, I am not a big fan of classical Music. I play more or less the same songs on clarinet, that I also play on Tenor. Most of all of course petite fleur (sidney Bechet), but also things like spanish Eyes, never on a sunday, danny boy, killing me softly, stranger on the shore, Mack the Knife, Fascination, sail along sivery moon and so on. I alway play these songs in the lowest range possible, as well as on clarinet as on Tenor sax Cheers , Marco
Andy does have a great soprano sound. Good call! Have you seen my interview with Andy Sheppard? : saxschoolonline.com/articles/andy-sheppard-interview/
I’m finding the stock mouthpiece has a lot of resistance. I’m about to buy a SYOS Steady in a 6 tip opening and the Legere signature reed. The American cut I use for my alto will me to bright for what I’m going for.
Branford Marsalis, Ravi Coltrane, and Bob Sheppard all have beautiful soprano tones, not to mention monster soprano chops. Hey Nigel, what is the horn you’re playing in this video?
Agree on all of the issues learning soprano. I used a Selmer C*. What i found difficult was getting even tone across the scale. I was not sure if it was me or the instrument. I have an Allora Paris Pro.
Good question - always a good idea to get your sax checked over if you’re really struggling with the sound. The C* is generally pretty good at helping you get a consistent tone.
Didn't know soprano much harder than tenor. Did find alto harder and tenor much easier after playing alto. (Jody Jazz custom dark is awesome tenor.) Your soprano sounds good but shrill in high tones, especially rapid tempo. More play time with bathroom acoustics will make it great.
Thanks for watching! You can check out Sax School and grab a 14 day trial here: saxschoolonline.com/join-today
Great playing and explanation...
Hi Nigel - I´m already a paying student with sax school. But thanks for your invitation.😃
My first horn that I ever learned was a Boston soprano saxophone. I was very determined to play it because a sales person from a Sam Ash store in Paramus New Jersey told me that it was almost Impossible to learn as your first saxophone. My answer is, that’s not true 👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿 Rico Blue
Definitely Kenny G he made me purchase my soprano sax due to his frequent use of it
This is a great review! I started with soprano and did experience lots of factors you mentioned. My ultimate favourite is Jan Garbarek especially when playing Parce Mihi Domine with The Hilliard Ensemble. This is what made me give up clarinet and change to Soprano. No one told me how difficult it could be! I went on about it so long, that for my 70th Birthday my wife Trish bought me a Soprano!
If you like soprano Sax and clarinet, try the tarogato, the instrument from Budapest (tarogato net). I've just bought one and it is great.
I have played Alto & Tenor for 40 + years. Started Soprano last year to do more old New Orleans style music. Sidney Bechet is my inspiration.
Brilliant. How did you find the transition to soprano?
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool not too bad at all. I found out quickly that certain Mouthpieces play in tune better than others. My Rousseau classic 5 is always flat across the horn. My Windycity mouthpiece is slightly sharp, which is fine. Thanks for your videos.
Nigel, you are absolutely correct regarding the Soprano being difficult. I am new to Soprano Sax, never played a sax before. However, I just love the sound it keeps me movitated. I practice about 1 1/2 hours each day with a TE Tuner. Since I never played before I don't know what's easy or what's hard. I just know learning an instrument takes time and practice. It can be frustrating.
For me playing the Soprano is like a hobby, I am retired and a member of McGill Music School.
Thanks for your words about Soprano Sax. PS: I want to sound like Art Porter.
Great to hear you are getting so much practitioner Ronald! Working with the tuner is a good strategy. What kind is playing are you most interested in?
Branford Marsalis is my benchmark. He has many different sounds from "Treat it Gentle" (like Sidney Bechet), "La Valse Kendall" (ethereal near-classical), to his solos with Sting such as on "An Englishman in New York." Wow!
Completely agree Clive!
YES Englishman in NY is one of my fave songs
Branford is top-notch....
Branford's sound and solo on "An Englishman in New York" is my benchmark. It's like a modern filmnoir kind of sound.
He’s treatment of “The Peacocks” from his renaissance album was truly phenomenal
Courtney Pine for me - The 37th Chamber, UK representing! Ive seen him a number of times and he switches between Alto & Soprano . I love his phrases and accessibility with his choice of covers and own work.
Awesome!
My two favourite soprano sax players are Amy Dickson and Jess Gillam.
I dont care how "hard" this is. Im going to practice and conquer it. I've gotten to intermediate level with piano and guitar... I started on clarinet in middle school so woodwind instruments arent foreign to me. I tried a soprano sax a few times that was a cheaper one with mechanical flaws so it didnt really motivate me to want to play it all that much. This time around I think ill invest a little more money into it and have a luthier on speedial. Soprano here I come
Hi there good tone lovers and altissimo squeezers,
my first instrument was and is the Bb Clarinet. After years of practicing long tones throughout the chromatic scale, I have a reasonable sound on the clarinet.
My rhythmic abilities when it comes to sheetmusic are still poorly. But my good tone always gets me some admirers. So practice long tones every DAY if you blow in any kind of horn and never forget that others may want to play with you - so feel the rhythem and get it right too !!!
Later on I added a Tenor and Altosax and whilst I was at it I got soprano sax too.
I love it because it´s the closest instrument to an oboe, considering single reed instruments. And not unlike the oboe you have only very little to put between your lips. So Mr. McGill is right - the only thing that helps is the practice time you put into a wonderful sound. What that may be, is up to you, but it definately helps to listen - lets say just as much as you practice.
I wonder why noone so far mentioned GROVER WASHINGTON JR.. Just Listen to what he does on an Soprano Sax - he is exelent!
I now even play a Bassclarinet down to low C. And although some of you may think ok hés got a few woodwind horns -
I´d like to say: „Every of these instruments is a diffrent planet!”
And unless yoúve got tons of time - it´s better to get familiar with one planet and try and make that one planet beautyful.
For those, like me, who have an unreasonable urge to experiment with more than one -
keep in mind yoúll most likely be the master of NONE - unless your first name is Nigel ;-)
BUT each instrument can teach you somthing.
The clarinet teaches you to love Mozart and how sweet an altissimo can sound, whilst the Chalumeau Register makes you lose your bearings.
It can teach you the sound of crying and laughing and everything in between.
The Bass Clarinet teaches you what VOICING is and how little air yoúve really got under your ripps. So take a deep breath and think HOME and than try to be efficient with your airstream.
The Tenor Sax can teach you how a big instrument can sound lovely when played Pianissimo.
The Alto Sax has tought me that instruments made in China for very little money
can sound great and that it´s better to practice and improve your playing than to buy the new Selmer Supreme.
So realy its not so much about gear as some Music-Schools like to tell us ;-)
Uuupps, no I didńt mean almost every online school - I suppose the teachers just cańt make enough money out of playing and teaching their instruments - which is sad to say, cause in that case we should rather play football. 😉
The Soprano Sax teaches you to be humble. No we cańt be good with every woodwind -
unless we are willing to put the time and afford in it takes.
So pay respect to all the people that are in the progress of making music. Even someone playing recorder today might end up blowing us all away one day, by performing that one peace of music which is closest to the heart, with an Armenian DUDUK - as happend in the opening scene of The Gladiator.
The Soprano Sax is a wonderful instrument you can cry and laugh with, if you willing to give it not a try but your respectful attention and time.
Loads of Gemütlichkeit from Germany -
Excuse my bad english Ím still in progress
All the best. wishes - Elmar
Close to Kenny’s sound in the middle, but not up high. He’s a bit brighter there. My favs on soprano are Bill Evans, Jeff Kashiwa and Mark Johnson (early 1990 on JVC label)
Nice!
Great video, thanks. I’m a past clarinet player from my youth, and just bought a soprano sax as love the sound, especially Kenny G. Working hard to improve and loving it!
Kenny G plays on a Dukoff D8. The Jody Jazz custom dark simply won't output that kind of sound if you're going for the 'Kenny G' sound. Also, mic placement needs to be right in front of the bell to get that high pitched tinny "oboe" sound, not to the side where it will come out more warmly. I'm sure you already are well versed in all of this :)
Your sound is beautiful regardless. Great video!
Wonderful video...and yes it is so difficult to get a good sound on the soprano because the instrument is not supporting you, you have to do it all yourself with a very clear sound idea in your mind
i must say i hear a lot to trumpet players like Chet Baker or Clark Terry and Roy Hargrove on flugelhorn as a guide to my soprano sound, they are in the same register but the flugelhorn is more focused and i try to get this very precise intonation and focus and separation between the notes
Cheers Andreas. Great tip about trumpet/flugelhorn. I’ve never tried that. How about Chuck Mangione?
I prefer your tone to Kenny G's. My first soprano arrives tomorrow and I'm very excited to get started. I'm already a decent clarinet, alto and tenor sax player, so it's a development instrument for me.
How’s it going? I played alto and baritone in high school. Just got a soprano and it’s my first time playing a sax in nearly 20 years. Very difficult
Terry Hickman My inspiration is Julian Smith. I think he is so smooth!!!
I transitioned from Clarinet to soprano after 20 years. Kenny G inspired me, love the sound of the instrument. These days I admire Ian Jacinto.
I played clarinet for ten years before playing soprano saxophone about 5 years after buying my first alto. I had already learned not to bite the mouthpiece when playing high notes. I think playing clarinet first helped. I like Sidney Bechet, Woody Herman when on soprano
Two great role models there!
I really like the sound of Dave Koz on soprano. He has a nice, even tone throughout the range.
Good information. As mentioned below, Branford is a fantastic soprano player. When I was in school I was captivated by Jan Garbarek's soprano sound, especially with Keith Jarrett. I have owned YSS-62, Selmer SA80 serie I, and now a Yanagisawa 991. Love the 991. I have a metal BARI mouthpiece for a bright (and loud) sound and use my Selmer S80 E opening for 90% of my soprano work.
My favourite soprano sax player/sound is Lucky Thompson playing ‘In a sentimental mood’ from the 1965 album ‘Lucky Strikes’. A sublime and ethereal sound. Worth checking out.
Oh that's a good one!
I know to most jazz players think Kenny G is a joke. But I got into to soprano saxophone because of him. I've listened to his music since 1985!! Getting then on cassette tape and then later on DVD! I would love to play like him!!
Nothing wrong with a bit of Kenny!
People are just mad that Kenny became rich. He commercialized Jazz music. Kenny's control, tone and flawless use of Circular Breathing are second to none. Listen to G Walkin' of Kenny... Esp at the end.
It was easy for me to transition to soprano sax.Reason , I played the Clarinet .My favorit Soprano Saxophonist is ART PORTER Jr & ARTURO TAPPIN.
I think, there are 2 caveats with playing the soprano sax:
1. Because it's short, the instrument must be made to far better specs + precision than people's usual alto or tenor. That increases the cost.
2. The embouchure. Usual embouchure makes it much harder to play, because it can't sufficiently control the tiny reed.
Agree fully. The soprano is far less forgiving than the other common three types. And yes… you really have to be careful with equipment and get the best equipment possible.
My set ups on my Selmer Serie III soprano are a Selmer Super Session 7* + Legere 2.25, a Phil Tone Sapphire .067 + Legere 2.0 and a Syos Tyvon Pennicott 7* + Legere 2.25. The Phil Tone is by far my preferred set up. Working the Ravel’s Bolero, the Schindler’s List and Gabriel’s Oboe at the moment. Good video, thanks Nigel
You have a nice setup there Thierry and three excellent mouthpieces. What do you like about the Phil Tone over the Selmer Session?
Excellent thank you I enjoyed that I've been thinking about switching to soprano,but I think I'll stay with alto. Only been playing for six months.
i think the difference is with kenny g is that he has a sharp sound when it comes to high notes. your sounds is smooth as you transition from low notes to high.
I just bought a yanagisawa white curved soprano. I’m trying to get those nice warm fuzzy tones and not so bright and edgy. Sweet and sensual type sounds. But I’ve only been playing on it for a few days and I can almost reach the full range of the horn. It is a major difference from my Yamaha custom EXB alto. It’s a big learning curve
Cool. Nice horn.
favourite players - Steven Norman Lackritz, Branford Marsalis, John Lurie....Love your sound by the way!!
My daughter is learning the soprano,she enjoys it,it was tough going in the beginning,but now it's alright.
Good to hear that!
I was lucky enough to watch/ hear Jess Gilliam at Petworth music festival. Wow, she was amazing it made me want to play soprano.
I've got a Trevor James soprano sax, and haven't tried changing the mouthpiece yet. I use Vandoren 3 and Hemker 3 reeds. I do find that when I go up really high the tuning goes really off!!!! I may well change the mouthpiece to a Selmer C Star. I've only been playing my soprano since last Christmas, so it's early days! You're absolutely right in what you say that soprano sax is very challenging, but I'm practising as hard as I can to improve. I've had lots of squeaks and split notes, and problems with intonation up the top register. Still very much work in progress! I haven't got a tuner yet, need to buy one, and I would love to play with a backing track. Playing with a backing track is something I've yet to try, but definitely in my plans! Thank you so much for your excellent videos, really superb!! Bless you hun. Xxx
You’re welcome and good luck with your playing Carolyn. Intonation is always tricky on soprano so stick at it.
My favorite soprano saxophone player is Bradford Marsalis
Me too - Romances for Saxophone is an AMAZING album for a classical soprano tone.
I grew up listening to Sydney Bechet on soprano and clarinet. His wide vebrato was powerful as was his improvising. I now have a Yamaha YSS 475 but play tenor most of the time. As others have said, picking up the soprano now and again is not ideal.
Kenny G. Not my taste in music but he found a niche. You come pretty close. I guess he keeps his bank manager very happy so kudos to him. Don't know what effects he uses and his vibrato is unusual.
Erm..a, I find soprano easier and tenor tougher. But I'm most comfortable with an Alto ; it's half a soprano in pitch and it's really easy to run scales up to three octaves in one breath.
My favourite soprano players: Dave Liebman, Branford Marsalis, Jane Ira Bloom and Steve Lacy.
Great inspiration there!
I have one basic advice for beginners; do situps daily to tone up your abs. You'll find a firm toned abs will make playing any horn, easier.
Wayne Shorter. Derek Nash (curved Soprano) . Learn to play Sop in tune, and you will be able to play any size Sax in tune.
I actually think you're right there Martin. Definitely getting the soprano in tune does wonders for your intonation on tenor!
Hi there, thank you for your highly informative and excellent video! I'm going to start learning the soprano this coming year, as my husband has just bought me one two days ago, feeling super excited!! I've been playing the alto sax since 1982, and recently decided to take up the soprano. I play piano, flute, alto saxophone, church organ and a little clarinet, and I help to lead worship at our local parish church. I'm really looking forward to starting to play the soprano there too, and I hope that I will be able to double it with the alto. Anyway, gently gently, I'm just really looking forward to getting started learning, and it's certainly good to know that the fingerings for all saxophones are the same. Here's to a very exciting 2023 learning to play the soprano saxophone!! Very best wishes from Carolyn King (from the UK).
You absolutely killed it mennnn you put your own spin on it great stuff 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Thanks for your sharing. Kenny G is using Dukoff D8 with his Mark VI. That is the horn he start to use since high school. Your sound is very close to his by using HR Dark. Glad to hear your sound. That makes my motion to get a jodyjazz.
Cheers! Dukoff 8 - I was wondering what size he used. Thanks.
I’ve spent just over 2 years playing nothing but my soprano and I’m finally happy with my soprano tone and my tuning is virtually spot on throughout the range although the altissimo does take some practice.
It’s not an instrument you can just jump on now and then and hope to do it justice.
I’ve also been doing some Kenny G stuff recently and the thing you’re lacking Nigel is the hair, I’ll send my Kenny G wig over it makes all the difference..😉
That’s it Ian! I’m a long way off his head of curls. A wig might just be the answer! Glad you’re enjoying your soprano.
I’m a 50 yr. pro and feel that tenor is toughest for me, though it was my primary horn. I find alto a breeze and soprano between it and tenor. Not sure I’d recommend a student start with soprano, but I think that the level of difficulty is overrated by several video makers on UA-cam. If you’re a competent saxophonist with a good ear hesitating about starting soprano, don’t! Nigel is so right about mouthpiece choice. I’d like to put in a plug for Soprano Planet where Joe G really works with a player to get their sound. Thanks
The person whose sound that I would most like to emulate is Theresa Killgo Morgan. She has a sweet mellow sound like I have never heard before. It will never happen but, never hurts to dream!
Great to have a model to aim for Mary!
My fav Soprano players:
Grover Washington, Jr
Kenny G
Gerald Albright
Cannonball A.
Also, Nigel you are a pro sax player and your soprano playing is really great! When I play the soprano I sound like a clarinetist and not a saxophonist... Is that "normal" when doubling from Alto or Tenor saxes to soprano sax?
Thanks Bobby! It does take a while to get a good soprano tone. You have some great players there to model from so just try to copy THEIR sound when you play. You’ll get there!
I love Kenny G!! Since I started learning the soprano, I have been really closely following him. What a true maestro he is!! Xxx
I like the following soprano sax tones better than Kenny G (best to last):
1) Grover Washington Jr.
2) Jay Beckenstein
3) Ronnie Laws
4) Kenny Garrett (The Other Kenny G)
5) Branford Marsalis
6) John Klemmer
That’s a great list! All excellent musicians, if I was to add more contemporary saxophonist to your list it would be: Najee, Gerald Albright, George Howard and Art Porter
@@DeltonBoswell Oooooh, Najee! I forgot about him. Yes, I do like his soprano a lot. I loved his cover of Anita Baker's "Sweet Love". I may have missed Gerald Albright's soprano work.
Yep, they are all amazing. Also have to add Tom Scott and Kirk Whalum!
@@ketong71 yes! That is one of my favorite songs of his. As for Gerald Albright “Beautiful like you ft Will Downing” is a great song to listen to. 🎧 🎷 🎼
@@DeltonBoswell Thanks! Will look into that.
It's difficult if you haven't got ears ! 🙂 I have the same mouthpiece, awesome.
Some notes on that sop have dodgy intonation.
I have a Durga 3 size 7 and use Java 2.5 reeds which helps tone down the brightness and it is an absolutely beautiful mouthpiece. I also have a Dukoff D8 same as Kenny G and that is also an amazing mouthpiece. The D8 requires daily practice regime to maintain the embouchure and if you leave a gap for too long you'll notice it drastically next time so requires absolute dedication. The soprano is for me the number 1 of the saxes and then alto which I also play and have a Durga 4 size 7, JJ Superjet 7, Beechler HR diamond inlay, and a few Syos mouthpieces for Alto and Soprano. I also have the Yani HR 6 that came with my Yani SW01. My alto is a YAS 62. As you can probably tell I love the saxophone. I started aged 12. Was inspired by Kenny G of course but since then I love Najee, Paul Taylor, NELSON RANGELL is absolutely amazing, Gerald Albright, Dave Koz, Kamasi Washington, and many others.
You are technically very high Nigel but in my humble opinion, you can't replicate Kenny's sound without using the D8 and Hemke 2.5 or similar reeds. There's just something about that mouthpiece that adds the brightness and allows the huge vibrato also the big 8 tip opening...
I use a Selmer c star yet I have a punchy jazz tone if u were to take a c star tip opening & widen the chamber what would happen?
On alto, I use a Selmer S80 C* and an Otto Link 4. Somehow, the C* has a brighter, edgier tone than the Otto Link, despite being a classical mouthpiece.
My favorite Soprano Player is definitely Dick Oatts on the Flim & the BBs recordings, especially like on "New Pants"
There's a young UA-camr who primarily plays soprano sax on his channel. His name is Jared Drake. He has kind of an eclectic style but he's a superb player. I like his sound and would like to kind of gravitate in that direction.
I’ve always be inspired by Grover Washington Jr’s nice warm tone on Soprano. You are so right the Selmer C* is very easy to control, like you I’ve used it for years on my curved Soprano .
I have But Grover Washington many times before he passed away and yes he has been a big influence in my playing . And I definitely always loved his soprano sound.
@@anthonyharris478 I have most of Grover’s works on cassette and some LP’s. Since his’s passing Ive heard one Soprano player that I do like ,Marion Meadows
(Magic Man) .
Nice one - it's a great safe and reliable mouthpiece choice.
I was a new saxophone player 1 year ago, got a soprano never played any of the other saxophones, been playing on a Rico B5 and vandoren reeds, still have a few issues but im getting closer to the sound im looking for. Been listening to a Bryan Thompson on UA-cam alot
Great to hear that Denley. Bryan Thompson has a great soprano sound.
Hi I have b5 and b7 rico using it with vandoren 1 reeds.B7 is easier to control for some reason.if you are using b5 i strongly suggest you to switch to b7 with 1 strength vandoren reeds.sound is bright with reverb
To play like Kenny g you must use a Effects Processor .Put it on Grand Hall or Reverb.You already have a great sound probably greater .I sound exactly like Kenny g using Mic Processors .Most say ,I am Miming, but I am not😅😅
Yes indeed you sound just like Kenny G!! Such a beautiful and pure sound. Thank you so much Nigel for sharing. Xxx
The fact that you dont sound exactly like Kenny G is a good thing in and of itself to be valued and mantained.
Thanks!
Definitely my favorite soprano player (contemporary jazz) is George Howard, my favorite song is “Hopscotch” from his 1991 album “Love and Understanding” 👌🏽🎵🎷
My favorite George Howard song Shower you with love and his version of Sweetest Taboo
@@kevinalexander7556 that is a great song! His cover of “Only Human” is also really beautiful.
As a tenor player, I had always assumed that soprano would be easier because of the similar key that both are in(B-flat). But adjusting the embachure and breath control along with the mouthpiece would be quite a challenge , especially, if you want to do doubling. Some bands like doublers or multiples because if there are requests for music by Kenny G or other songs that feature a soprano solo or the song is played on soprano.
My favorite soprano player? Hard to say. The first four that come to my mind is John Coltrane, Kenny G, Dave Koz (though, he alto more than soprano, but I may be wrong). Paul Taylor (the first time I ever saw him was in the public television concert presentation of Keiko Matsui’s Light Above The Trees. The saxophonist in her band was also very good). It was on VHS back in the days. It hasn’t had a DVD or Blu-ray release.
I had bought two of Kenny G’s music books and Songbird and Silhouette were quite difficult for me to play. I think I needed to really have a feel for the those songs. Listening is one thing. Playing is another.
I tried to play John Coltrane’s rendition of “My Favorite Things.” I had to play the song in a different key than I and everyone else in the world who still listens to this iconic piece.
Nigel, you are very close to sounding like Kenny G on Coming Home. Bravo. Bravo.🎷😎👏👍
Lien says if you want to play soprano, you must do it, and nothing else.
I picked up soprano this year. I was shocked that I could barely get a note out in the first week. After about 6 weeks, 2 dozen different reeds and 3 mouthpieces, everything started to click. The Selmer concept worked for me in the beginning, but after I figured out how the embouchure really worked I moved over to the yanagisawa mouthpiece with the 2 3/4 legere Reed. One thing that still puzzles me is the very very precise location on the cork for the mouthpiece. If it isn't exactly right within 1mm, it isn't just out of tune, but I also get some kind of vibrating double tone on some of the lower notes. Maybe I already need a tune up?
Could be a mechanical issue Eric. I’d get it looked at. Tuning is always challenging. A small movement of your mouthpiece makes a big difference when the instrument is smaller!
I love Branford Marsalis
Me too Seb. Romances for Saxophone album is a benchmark for me.
I think Emma McPhilemy sounds fantastic. She has been music director with the touring company of Riverdance and plays the whole show memorized. Her sound is so dark but it punches. I think that she is fun to listen to, which is hard for many soprano sax players.
I assumed that the tuning issues were mainly due to the small size, after all, even with tenor small changes in embouchure/air speed in the high notes have more affect on pitch than at the low end.
I love my soprano sax.but I some exercise music Sheet to improve my whole range from top to bottom with all my keys.
That’s a good idea. We have lots of things like this inside SaxSchoolOnline.
My favorite saxophone payer is the famous jazzman Stefano du Batista. He succeded to have a homogeneous sound all over the Instrument range. And of course, he technically masters his instrument even in the lowest and the highest notes.
Back in 2018 when I was wanting to get started plyaing saxophone, I had listened to a lot of sporano sax videos and really wanted to get a soprano sax then, but what stopped me was reading that it could be more diffucult to start on and that you have to have a good soprano or it is not going to play well and I didn't have the budget yet for a a decent soprano sax. I instead started on alto sax and I knew at some point, I'd get a soprano sax.
Last year my playing was progressing since I wasn't able to go anywhere and I practised every day. I then got my first soprano sax, a Conn-Selmer Advant DSS-200 one peice straight soprano. I played it with a Vandoren SL3 and Legere Signature reeds. My sound was OK but after a while I started to not like the weight of holding it on my right thumb as my right hand and arm would get sore after a while. I also found the neck strap would get in the way of the octave key so I ended up selling it. After upgrading my alto at the end of last year, I decided to get another soprano sax, this time I got a curved Windcraft WSS-200 to deal with the weight issues.
I then got a Selmer Concept to play with it. On alto I didn't liked how the Concept responded for me as I stuggled to get a good sound on it, but its become my favourite mouthpiece for classical playing on soprano. I use Legere European Cut clarinet reeds and a BG Duo silver ligature with it for a centered tone and I like the mix of combination of brightness from the reed and smooth round dark tone of the mouthpiece.
When I started playing it, I noticed a bit of resistance and I had the tuning issues due to the curved body and had to get used to the left hand pinky keys being angled further left than I am used to but I had no more issues with the weight of holding it.
I still need to work on varying my tone to no be so straight (I need to vary my dynamics more, add vibrato, scoops etc..) and while I know alto sax will always be my main instrument, I do enjoy playing soprano sax, especially being in Bb I find it easier playing some music than I do having to transpose for alto sax.
I haven't yet found a soprano sax player that I really like. I like Sidney Bechet a lot and his style of playing but don't want to sound like him.
The closest I have found I like a lot is when I saw on UA-cam the video "A Thousand Years - Diego Campos Sax- Christina Perri Sax Version" /watch?v=0himUEFf01c I really liked DIego's soprano playing in it and listening to it made me want to play soprano sax. Also "Desperado - Soprano Sax (Greg Hawkins)" watch?v=Puy_3VV3AB4 so I am thinking I would like a tone somewhat like those but a bit darker sounding. Another player is Alistair Gillies as he made 2 albums of himself playing folk tunes on soprano and tenor sax and I liked his playing as it was a little different as you don't normally hear folk tunes like that played on saxophones.
I am glad I started on alto first as I had the embochure strength to play the soprano smoothly without a lot of difficulties when I started playing soprano regularly since getting the curved soprano.
Brilliant to hear your soprano journey here Dave. I’m glad you have found a setup you like. If you like Sidney Bechet, tell me what you think of this recording: ua-cam.com/video/sAGj8cElOKU/v-deo.html
I love the sound of A Thosand Years, played on soprano sax. It’s a perfect fit.
For me the best sounding soprano players ever were Bechet’s first pupil Bob Wilber and his colleague in their duetting group called “ Soprano Summit “ Kenny Davern !
This is so inspiring thankyou! Just about to get me a soprano yss 475mk2. Regarding fav soprano players I love the sound Bob Sheppard gets on Kurt Elling ‘Not while I’m around’ it’s gorgeous! Nit forgetting Andy Sheppard?? No relation must be something in that name! 😂
Two fantastic players there. Andy Sheppard did this with us at Sax School: saxschoolonline.com/articles/andy-sheppard-interview/
I love Paul Winter’s sound on soprano sax
I’ve noticed for me deciding to double on tenor after a few years of soprano only is that the embouchures are different. I noticed for me soprano rewards a tight embouchure but tenor rewards a relaxed but steady embouchure , especially in terms of intonation and control. I’ve heard Sam Newsome talk about soprano embouchure and he said he started off with a tight grip but is learning to relax.
I'd love to be able to play like Ronnie Laws as my favorite soprano player, then Kenny G. They both have that silky smooth sound that I like. Laws, especially, because of the way he melds the jazz and R&B sounds.
If you want to play like Kenny G, just play pentatonic scales (and nothing else), and make sure you up your Xanax.
Favorite soprano player -- Coltrane on My Favorite Things. None finer than how he makes such a hight and sweet horn sound so dark and sinister on an otherwise cheery song.
(Orla's mom jumping on here...) Jane Ira Bloom does some interesting stuff that brings out the lower register. I like your sound as your sound, Nigel, and the Jody Jazz sounds full and smooth. Knowing her mom watched this video, Orla will be pleased that I can stop bugging her to learn the soprano alongside her tenor ; )
Ha! I’m sure Orla would do great on soprano. Glad you like the Custom Dark. Jane Ira Bloom is brilliant.
I love the sound of Simon Willescroft. I know you had him on your channel a couple of years ago. Amazing sound, so expressive.
The guy I like is James Carter.
The mistake I made was trying the Sapranino . Really tough to play in tune.
I've been studying the sound of George Howard Najee and Grover Washington Jr on soprano sax
Three great players to listen to for sure!
Beautiful video! You explain the complicated world of Curved Soprano Saxes very clearly.
I apologize for my question being outside this exact context.
I currently face a big unknown.
I already own a professional straight soprano (P. Mauriat System 76 Mk II), and I would like to face the adventure of a Curved Soprano.
The problem is that there are few curved soprano sax models, but they have price levels at two ends.
In fact, we go from a multitude of economic (Chinese) sax to professional ones, and there is little or almost nothing at an intermediate level (and even price).
I would like to buy a curved soprano of at least honest and dignified quality, but without spending a fortune.
I'm in serious trouble. I would be grateful for a suggestion.
Cordial greetings.
I'm not really a soprano guy nor do I have one but there's one player that I really like. His names John Scarpulla, he's been in multiple groups, he's a great player and has a great sound.
John Scarpulla is brilliant. John played with Tower of Power a while back : saxschoolonline.com/articles/power-players-the-stars-from-t-o-p/
Hey mate I think in some ways, your warm tone makes me love yours over Kenny G. Thanks loved the demo!
Wow, thanks!
Grover Washington JR is amazing
Great Video from Down Under look forward to checking out more! I like Paul McCandless of the group Oregon, to my ears his tone sounds woody like an Oboe.
Thanks Stavros - I'll have to check out Paul McCandless.
I'm using all the Jody Jazz gold plated DV7 on the Tenor and Soprano, and the New York on the alto.
Nice one Carl. I haven’t tried the DV on soprano but have it for alto and tenor.
In terms of soprano, I’m a big fan of Mammal Hands. Totally listenable jazz without being cloying and sappy (sorry, I really can’t stand KennyG). But even if you are a fan of his, do check out Mammal Hands. I think you might like them.
Cheers Matt, I’ll check them out.
To be honest I’m not a big fan of the Kenny G style and sound but I do very much appreciate the Wayne Shorter sound in the early Weather Report years as well as John Coltrane (ie My Favorite Things)
I think that Kenny G is a very good sop sax player but I also listen to (and quite enjoy) Grover Washington Jr. and Branford Marsalis.
Your tone and overall playing on the sop is enviable, Nigel! Well done.
Thanks for the video.
Hi NigeI,
I prefer the soft sound of the clarinet to a soprano sax. In my opinion, the "sexiest" of all Saxes is the Tenor sax, which I play, anyhow. I am thinking about getting an Alto sax too, but I would never exchange the clarinet for a soprano sax. Many greetings from Southeast Asia, Marco
Nothing wrong with that Marco - I'm a huge fan of clarinet too. Out of interest, what style of clarinet playing do you prefer to do? classical / jazz?
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool Well, I am not a big fan of classical Music. I play more or less the same songs on clarinet, that I also play on Tenor. Most of all of course petite fleur (sidney Bechet), but also things like spanish Eyes, never on a sunday, danny boy, killing me softly, stranger on the shore, Mack the Knife, Fascination, sail along sivery moon and so on. I alway play these songs in the lowest range possible, as well as on clarinet as on Tenor sax
Cheers , Marco
Nice one. That a lovely collection of tunes and all great melodies to learn.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchoolI honestly am very hello you didn’t call them songs.
Branford and Andy Sheppard are my favourite soprano players. Great video Nigel.
Andy does have a great soprano sound. Good call! Have you seen my interview with Andy Sheppard? : saxschoolonline.com/articles/andy-sheppard-interview/
I’m finding the stock mouthpiece has a lot of resistance. I’m about to buy a SYOS Steady in a 6 tip opening and the Legere signature reed. The American cut I use for my alto will me to bright for what I’m going for.
I hope the SYOS works out for you.
Branford Marsalis, Ravi Coltrane, and Bob Sheppard all have beautiful soprano tones, not to mention monster soprano chops. Hey Nigel, what is the horn you’re playing in this video?
82z or 875 but a yama
I really appreciate these three points. Thanks. You were a little close to Kenny G😊
You sounded GREAT !! Good Job !!!
Kirk Whalum and Branford Marsalis for me 🎷
You have a beautiful tone
I started on soprano. Yes very hard. Made me good at altissimo on tenor.
Agree on all of the issues learning soprano. I used a Selmer C*. What i found difficult was getting even tone across the scale. I was not sure if it was me or the instrument. I have an Allora Paris Pro.
Good question - always a good idea to get your sax checked over if you’re really struggling with the sound. The C* is generally pretty good at helping you get a consistent tone.
Didn't know soprano much harder than tenor. Did find alto harder and tenor much easier after playing alto. (Jody Jazz custom dark is awesome tenor.) Your soprano sounds good but shrill in high tones, especially rapid tempo. More play time with bathroom acoustics will make it great.
I find compared to a tenor, with the soprano , you need a lot more precision and finesse as well as a much stronger embourchure
For sure. Everything is smaller.
I always liked Chris Vadala's soprano sound.
i like listening to kenny g and james carter and walter beasley
All legends!