Bari Sax

[jake]

Have you ever played a Bari sax? I know the fingerings will be the same but how is it compared to the tenor? Is it more difficult to control because more air is needed?
Also, I have read different opinions about Low Bb versus Low A bari saxes? What’s your take Johnny?
And lastly, would a mouthpiece/reed setup be similar to a tenor setup, (same opening mouthpiece), or would you recommend getting something a little less open initially for a Bari?

I have been browsing a little bit and would love to get my hands on and play around with a Baritone sax. I like the deep bass sounds it generates.

[john]

Ya, don’t own on but I’ve played one many times at home on stage and in the recording studio.
I love it and name it my 2nd fav after tenor.
You always must have a bari in any horn section! (check out Tower of Power!)
The low A is just an option to be able to get one more note in which for the bari is really important cause that’s where it barks. Other than that there’s no difference from one that has a low A or Bb… if I was to buy one it would have to have the low A. Unless you find an old one it shouldn’t be a problem getting one with the A because most newer ones now have it.

As for mp’s I can’t really recommend anything. I can tell you that even though I didn’t own a bari I did invest in my own mp years ago. I went into the largest music store here and got the guy to lay out 4 or 5 top mp brands to try out. He brought out the big names like otto link etc and then at the last moment threw in a Rico mp. I said I never heard about Rico makin mp’s just reeds….he said they’re new and it’s only 12 bucks so if you buy it and change your mind you can always use it for a door stop.

Guess what? I tried a handfull of top name mp’s and chose the $12 Rico which was made out of plastic but man did it feel and sound great.
The bari does require a different touch and a lot of air down low and intonation is hard up top. But all the fingering and other technique you’ve been workin on your tenor is the same….I say go for it, they’re a ton of fun.

[jake]

great thanks so much. yea, i saw some rico mouthpieces like you described on ebay, like 20 bucks. awesome. my hunt is on for the right deal!!!

[Author]

Posts