Gathering for Singapore-based saxophonists

 



Attended the gathering for Singapore-based saxophonists organised by Benson Kong on 16 November 2023 at The Singapore Lyric Opera Limited  Address: 90, #01-07 Goodman Rd, Blk B Goodman Arts Centre, 439053.  It was my first ever saxophone gathering and I did not know what to expect.  But I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed the session. Many ideas and opinions were exchanged and discussed.  Below is a broad summary of what transpired in the gathering.   


First, we discussed how the larynx affects pitch and tone production.     


Larynx


Your larynx is a hollow tube in the middle of your neck, just above your trachea (windpipe) and behind your esophagus. It also contains the vocal cords and functions as a voice box for producing sounds



I shared a small tip to help young students to be aware of their larynx, that is to touch the centre of the throat whilst humming a mid-tone concentrating the strongest vibrations in the middle of the throat.  For those students who are unable to reach the low tones, get the student to touch the lower end of their throat and hum a low tone; concentrating the strongest vibrations at the lower end of the throat.  Thereafter, get the student to play the low notes with the hum or air targeting the lower end of the throat.  Same can be done for the high notes.    

This is a pedagogical technique which I have used successfully to help students to achieve results at the shortest time.   Most young students do not know what the larynx is;  let alone understand the function and capabilities.    I found this method is most effective amongst Special needs students who are more tactile.



Air support 


"Air support" refers to the use of steady and controlled air flow from the lungs into the saxophone, which is essential for producing a good tone and playing with proper technique.


The diaphragm plays a crucial role in playing a wind instrument. It is a large muscle located below the lungs, separating the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. When you inhale, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, causing the lungs to expand and fill with air.

In playing a wind instrument, such as a trumpet or saxophone, the diaphragm is used to push air out of the lungs and into the instrument. By controlling the diaphragm's movement and airflow, musicians can produce different pitches, dynamics, and tones.

The diaphragm acts as a support system for controlling the airflow and creating a steady stream of air necessary for producing sound. It helps in maintaining breath control and sustaining notes for longer durations. Proper diaphragmatic breathing is essential for playing wind instruments effectively and achieving a rich and resonant sound.


There are specific techniques and exercises that can help strengthen the diaphragm for wind instrument players. Here are a few:

  • Diaphragmatic Breathing: This technique involves deep breathing by expanding the diaphragm. Lie down on your back and place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen. Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your abdomen to rise while keeping your chest still. Exhale slowly through your mouth, allowing your abdomen to fall. Practice this technique regularly to strengthen the diaphragm.

  • Sustained Exhalation: This exercise focuses on controlling the airflow by gradually releasing air while playing your instrument. Start by taking a deep breath and playing a long note. As you sustain the note, gradually release the air in a controlled manner, using your diaphragm to push the air out. This exercise helps build endurance and control of the diaphragm muscles.

  • Breathing Gym Exercises: The Breathing Gym is a series of exercises developed by Sam Pilafian and Patrick Sheridan, renowned brass musicians. These exercises focus on building strength, flexibility, and control of the diaphragm muscles. They involve various breathing patterns, resistance exercises, and tongue-controlled exercises.



Sound vs Tone 

Kenneth asked an interesting question: What is the difference between “Sound” and “Tone”?   Below is my attempt to explain this profound question.  

Tone refers to the quality of the sound produced by a musical instrument. It is influenced by various factors, including the instrument's construction, materials, and the player's technique.  In this context, we refer to the players breath control, air support,  position of their embouchure (mouth and lip position) to produce a firm solid sound. 

Sound in this context is a term that encompasses the auditory characteristics produced by the player.  This would include tone color, playing styles, improvisation approaches that are closely associated with the player.   Some comments that is often heard amongst saxophonist to describe sounds are: 

“You sound like Kenny G”      
“I like the David Sanborn sound” 

In summary, while "tone" often refers to the specific quality or timbre of the sound produced by an instrument, "sound" is a more comprehensive term covering the overall auditory output. The terms can be closely related, and the distinction might vary based on context and individual interpretations. When discussing the saxophone, players and enthusiasts often use these terms interchangeably to describe the instrument's sonic characteristics.
Location: Singapore

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