Sax technique book by Rob Buckland

[BigMartin]

I thought some of you might be interested in this:

http://www.robbuckland.com/content/playing-saxophone-book-rob-buckland

I was at the RNCM sax day on Sunday and heard Rob give an excellent talk on the basics of saxophone sound production. Went home and tried a couple of the techniques he suggested and, even without practising, was able to move between harmonics much more reliably and toduce a cleaner sound across the range of the instrument, just by being aware of my tongue position. Also, he showed a technique for balancing and reducing the resistance of a reed with no sanding scraping etc. Just put it curved side down on a flat surface hold down the tip and give the fat end a flick. Tried that one, too, and it worked like a charm.

So I ordered a copy of the book, which arrived today. Looks really good. Lots more detail and I suppose more up to date than Teal's book. There's years of work in there, of course, but that's what some of us need to do, I suppose.

 

[PaulM]

There's years of work in there, of course, but that's what some of us need to do, I suppose.

Thanks for the info BigM. Do you have a view of whether the book suitable for the beginner as a means to set them on the right path?

 

[BigMartin]

Thanks for the info BigM. Do you have a view of whether the book suitable for the beginner as a means to set them on the right path?

I don't see why not, as long as said beginner has some patience and is willing to put some hours into playing long notes etc. I wouldn't give it to a kid and say "this is how you play the sax, go away and learn it". But I suppose it's never to early to start working on a sound technical foundation.

He takes you right from the start: how inhale, how to form a secure but flexible embouchure, etc. But from the point of view of someone who is already serious about playing. The video links on the page I mentioned will give you a flavour of it.

 

[jrintaha]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y75Fvr71aRQ This video accompaniment to the book seems quite incredible. Have to try this out as soon as I get home!

 

[Profusia]

Thanks Martin,

My Christmas List to Myself just keeps getting longer and longer!

 

[kevgermany]

Martin, many thanks for the suggestion.

The book's even better than you said! Seriously impressed. Teal has finally been surpassed - by a mile!

 

[Ivan]

I had been meaning to reply to this thread after I got the book at your recommendation Kev and I agree that it's excellent

I have only worked part way through but already I seem to be reaping the benefit of the advice on posture, head and hand position and emouchure

 

[Andrew Sanders]

I've just had a scoot through Rob's website. There's some beautiful music on there.

Have posted a link to Sospiro Saxophones on "Great Saxophone Players". Rob with Tim Garland, John Harle, Simon Harad (and Steve Lodder on keys).

Well worth further investigation.