An enjoyable and fast, though thorough, look at sax style and direction. After some twenty years of playing jazz I believe that time itself tends to form a player’s style unconsciously, just as flowing water smoothes and rounds pebbles. As the French say, style is the man himself...in the end you can only be who you are. Thank you for an enjoyable and incisive guide. Don W
In my opinion you are the only sax tutor in TH-cam who is transferring knowledge. Your videos are top, and I am glad , as a late starter in the sax world, I found your channel. Thanks Scott.
i live on TH-cam searching and viewing anything saxophone related. Find myself always coming back to your vids. You have a wonderful instructional approach. THANK YOU !
Tinyae Music I purchased many of the Better Sax instructional courses and they have been extremely beneficial and I subscribe to Jay’s channel but Scott’s delivery style brings me back to him consistently. I have had other musicians who do not play sax make very positive comments on his instructional approach.
Scott ... Not only is this yet another HIGH QUALITY "Vutorial" produced by you ... It is one of my absolute favorites! Thank you so much for opening up this discussion and adding meat to the bones of such a crucial subject that many experienced saxophonists seem to avoid and novice to intermediate ones are lost about. In the three years of learning to play the saxophone, I became concerned about finding my own sound but I did not know what that really meant. It became clearer when I read the book "Developing A Personal Saxophone Sound" by David Liebman (fantastic read) but it was not a conversation and so, I had no feedback. Recently, a very experienced and accomplished professional remarked to me that they are able to identify me because I have been developing my own sound. I was not sure what that meant though it was offered as a compliment. You started this discussion with an explanation of what defines a personal sound and this has certainly helped be unequivocally identify what I have been sculpting for myself. This was an absolutely fascinating and important session. THANK YOU! Could you put a part two of this vutorial together and talk about things like: vocabulary, motivic playing, chord changes, release and tension, melodic devices and of course sound effects (I thought of Joshua Redman when typed that). Excellent content, man! Keep safe and be well! I am returning to the "dark side" for now ... ;-)
Thanks! That is what I was aiming for. Not necessarily to guide someone into finding their own sound, but more giving them things to think about when it comes to developing it. Yes, I definitely plan on a part 2 and 3, but I need to figure out how to sum it up in 15 minutes. haha.
13:40 absolutely! One influence on me is Vangelis' exciting keyboard soloing on Dervish D off the Spiral album and other solos on the Albedo 0.39 album. Such a pity he didn't do more albums like those two but I guess moody ambient tracks were more to his taste.
Thanks, Scott. This is super helpful. You so often address topics that no one else deals with. This topic is a good one now for me because I'm trying to find some way to do improv that sounds interesting, has some kind of musical theme, and is more than scales. It's a hard leap to make to be expressive and not worry about hitting bad notes.
I totally agree with you. Personally I’m very bright and I have been greatly influenced by the electric guitar in classic rock and blues so those riffs and sounds you can hear in my playing but when I’m playing the melody Aretha Franklin/Freddie Mercury seems to show through a bit and that’s part of playing lyrically.
Hi Scott...thank-you for the advice in this video. With the time I've been afforded due to our current circumstances. I've picked up my soprano again (I had been focusing on alto). I find soprano requires a more "gentle" touch, however, I often revert to the way I have been playing alto. I would appreciate any suggestions you could offer for adapting to the soprano. Thank-you again for sharing. I pray you and those you love stay safe, healthy, optimistic and strong. ...peace & blessings... G
Nice tutorial about sound Padlock also the type of saxophone you play determines your sound alto and soprano is higher bright sounding and tenor and baritone is more darker
Hey Scott, I like your breakdown of sound. I especially appreciate your comment about listening to vocalists. Saxophone is one of those instruments that mimics the human voice. As a suggestion for your next video (maybe you already have done this) is to describe your set up for a dark or bright sound. Thanks a million! You sound Great!
Exceptionally interesting and useful video, even though I'm looking to end up on the dark side. The Ella comment was fascinating. I guess I'm not going to get much from McCoy Tyner or Brad Mehldau but maybe there's something in say Alex Lifeson's soloing that I could steal. And I'll think more about those elements you mention.
I had understood that the sound like the voice is typical of birth. example I never. I think it could sound like desxter, stan getd etc I continue watching the video thanks
Scott, thanks for the theme of this video. It helped me understand that there is no one way to articulate correctly and that this is an important choice when playing. Thank you!
Interesting vid -- it's frustrating to play and not have it sound like it is in your ear! I have already resolved to make that a 'me' issue and not a 'gear' issue though (mpc, reeds etc)...spent WAY too long with the latter on guitar to discover it was mostly the former.
I think when you're making progress on the "me" issue you'll be able to tell when there's a gear issue because you'll know exactly what's wrong rather than randomly swapping mouthpieces.
Hey Scott, I would love a tutorial on switching between notes, my notes sound dry at times, when playing a melody that there are pauses in between, I don’t just feel that sleek connect between the notes
Always enjoy your Vids Scott. I believe you have a Barkley Brazil Kustom Pop. I have one too. Is there any difference between the Blue, and the Red one.
Hi Scott I am so glad U put this video video out. I like the dark side but like metal M/P Who make dark metal mouthpiece would you recc I could try for soprano. I would love to give you a million thumbs up BUT.
Hi, thank you so much for your videos! I like the way you explain things, brake it into very clear parts, and giving examples of how it sounds. For me, that is a very good way to learn, and I have already learned a lot from you.
This is so important Scott - I ripped up the rule book and developed my own - trying to play freely - I started on the P Mauriat 67 Rx but love the darker sound of the 66RX recentlty picked up -- great video thanks for posting always interesting
Hello Scott... am a subscriber of yours. A have watched most of your videos, very interesting and helpful. Is there any chance to take a private class from you through internet.
Way back in the day in my early 20s I remember talking with a sax guy in a combo band. He told me that he listened to guitar players a lot for inspiration. I JUST discovered Doreen Ketchens (sp?) about two months ago and am thoroughly impressed with her skills on the clarinet! Thanks for the video. Still trying to nail down what my “sound” is and if I want to change it.
Another excellent intuitive video, this 75 year old is really making progress following all your tips. I'm locked down here in Scotland so bags of time for practice. Stay well, stay safe.
Scott, Iam a devoted subscriber.You are a incredible player and teacher without a doubt . Your main ax seems to be alto , which I can appreciate . Just wondering what you think about tenor I have always felt it has more of a voice than alto Thanks JS
Hey Jerry, my voice is 100% alto, but I feel comfortable playing the tenor, although I rarely practice it. I usually play it for gigs, recording sessions, etc. and I hear really well on an Eb instrument, but not so well on a Bb instrument. It all comes down to where you hear your voice. It's funny my last world tour gig was 75% tenor... so needless to say, I became a lot more at home on the tenor.
Hi Scott! I really like to get a P. Mauriat 67r, but they said these horn has bad intonation, its that true and what can we do to make in tune, cause I really like the sound, thank you
She's got the raspy rock and roll sax sound now, she use to be way more syrupy smooth jazz. I don't think there would be much interest in me devoting a video to her.
That’s fair. What do you think about her Signiture mouthpiece, other than being super expensive? www.wwbw.com/Theo-Wanne-Mindi-Abair-Custom-Alto-Saxophone-Mouthpiece-J32002.wwbw
Hi Scott. I'm kind of confused of what dark vs bright sound is. You said that you sound bright, but the bright sound to me is like a 'french horn sound', a round sound. I thought you sound dark and not bright. Maybe I mixed the terminology? I researched online about dark vs bright sound and mostly the explanations are opposite of what your description are as to dark/bright sounds. Any thought about this?
To me French horn is way darker than regular brass. Sticking to orchestral brass, it's a lot mellower than trombones and trumpets. I think Scott illustrated it quite well despite the mouthpiece he was using.
Ahhhh!!! I definitely should have mentioned both of them. I love both of them! They completely flipped the script and came up with their own original concept of playing the sax. AND both of them are super hard to emulate because their abilities to have such a unique sound takes a ton of work to accomplish
Interesting thoughts Scott, so thanks. Are you consistent across different horns? I'm still developing my personal sound, but I like to play dark and slurred on tenor, but somewhat brighter and more articulated on alto.
Great question! I like a darker soprano sound. And my tenor sound is definitely more fuzzy and warm, but I can also get a serious pop out of it when I press on the gas. I definitely hear tenor as darker and less articulated.
Scott, I think you presented a very intuitive take on playing style. I feel you could have added 'motivation.' As a musician, what emotional effect are you attempting to produce with your music and style of playing? I suppose that is why there is no limit to how one can play the 12.
Hey Jay, yeah there are a lot of things I could have added. I plan on doing a couple videos on this, and these topics seemed like the best staring point.
I’ve developed my sound by playing with better players and trying to sound somewhat like them. Better players make me play better. I personally like the smoother, darker, flowing sound. My main goal is to keep my tone steady and sounding full.
How does the make and model of the saxophone influence darkness and brightness? I think I'm beginning to understand how internal designs of mouthpieces and application of reeds affect tone. But when I listen to comparisons among saxophones, the same player might yield slight differences in tone between them, but perhaps larger differences in embellishments and delivery. Is there really tonal difference caused by saxophone design?
Yeah, some saxes are darker or brighter than others. Some project more and some are a bit stuffier (more resistance) so it all depends on what you are looking for. I prefer something with a huge sound that projects and blows easy. Most of the difference is going to be in reed and mouthpiece combination. The speed and pattern of your airstream is more what is going to determine how bright or dark you sound and that is determined mostly by your mp setup. However, the sax does also play a role.
I’m so pleased you touched on this subject. It’s given me an understanding as to where I am in my playing ( dark ) . Being somewhat older in age, I tend to play the standards and the slower pieces, almost crooning through my alto. Trying to simulate the style of Chris Botti on the trumpet.... 🙏🎷🙏🎷🙏 your posts are always so thorough.
The audio levels between the intro, and the content is really off. Great video though. I opted for a brighter sound personally. Pretty sold on the tone of Berg Larsen pieces/that type of baffling (and step baffles). Have definitely been influenced by your tone personally Scott--despite playing Tenor.
Sorry, on this video I actually really concentrated on talking softer and slower (2 complaints I get a lot) so I didn't adjust the intro properly. I need to do more tenor videos! On the last tour I was on, I played mainly tenor. Check out my IG for some examples
Thanks Scott for that excellent info on getting your own sound! I tend to be more like the sound you lean towards which is that Bright sound (though I am no where near your level of playing LoL. I haven't been playing vary long) I listen to Lenny Pickett alot ( your playing reminds of) Another Sax player I really like his sound alot is Jr. Walker on songs like What does it take " and his Solo on the song Urgent by Foreigner your playing reminds of that solo as well. Didn't mean to ramble on.... Keep up the Excellent channel Scott! Cheers!
Thanks! I actually got to play a gig with Lenny Picket in my 20s. He was absolutely killing. He had a huge influence on my playing when I was developing my style... definitely with the overtone stuff and the altissimo.
@@ScottPaddock What about Jr Walker? You never mentioned him Lol...... I understand we all have different opinions on certain Artist.. Stay healthy! Cheers!
Thanks, Scott. I played a Selmer Serie III throughout middle and high school (I think I got it around 2003). Honestly, I didn't take it seriously enough back then, but would like to get back into it now. However, I'm seeing a lot of people online claiming it's designed for dark, "classical" music and isn't ideal for jazz. Is that bs or is there any truth to a sax being "classical?" Also, I find myself drawn to brighter sax tones. If my horn is darker than others, can I overcome that with a bright, metal mouthpiece or would I be better off selling it and getting a new horn? Thanks!
Hey Clayton - yeah, those SERIE models are known for being dark and a bit stuffy, and they are definitely way more prevalent in the classical world than the jazz world. If you compare it side by side with a P. Mauriat, Eastman, Yamaha, Cannonball, or a Reference 54 you are going to notice a very big difference in the brightness of the horn as well as the projection. If I were you, I'd go out and start trying some new horns and see if there's anything that you like better. If you find one you love, buy it and sell your Selmer. Those selmer's keep their value so you'd probably come close to breaking even.
Hi Scott, I have definitely been playing on the bright side. I have a very bright metal mouthpiece with a step baffle. I find it works for most styles of music I like to play. But sometimes I just can't get the sound I want when playing a smoother jazz tune or a ballad. I have considered having two setups. One that is bright and another that is more towards dark. Is this common practice or should I just stick with the one mouthpiece and try and be as versatile with it as I can?
I'd try to stick with one and try and make it work, or maybe get a setup that is a little more versatile. My current setup is a laser beam shot through a cannon haha.... so it took me a while to reign it in to sound good on a ballad. Start off thinking about your airspeed. That baffle is pushing the air really fast, so when you go to play a ballad pull back some to slow up the air stream.
That was actually a really interesting video .. thanks. Do you have a video talking more about gear ? You went through it very quickly regarding the mouthpiece .. but I think it would be very useful to have a more in-depth look and different mouthpiece styles and the different effect they can have on sound and playing. I’ve been watching you videos for a while now and they are always good, I always manage to take something out of them to my practice room. Thanks Scott keep them coming. Martin
Thanks! I don't do a lot of gear comparison videos, just because I don't try that much gear. haha. But I have been thinking about doing some mp videos on stuff that I do have.
Scott Paddock Yeah that’s a fair point .. I guess you need lots of different mouthpieces to show the difference. My thinking was, for example I also play tennis and in the tennis club there is always much debate over different racquets. Weight, head size, string tension etc etc. But for me I only started playing 4 years ago. So I bought a racquet I have no idea how other set ups will effect my game. So unless I go buy lots, (and they are not the sort of thing you buy every day) how can you find the differences. And I’m guessing it’s the same with mouthpieces. I hear all about rake and bevels and tone chamber and flattened or rounded rails, tip opening. but I don’t really know what each thing does to effect the sound. I’m currently using a Jody Jazz 6m hard rubber on a 1968 Selmer Mkvi .. I can make it growl with effort but it seems to be the more middle of the road set up. Anyway sorry to go on a bit but is an interesting subject I think. Thanks again Scott keep those great videos coming. I have nothing but time to practice at the moment. Stay safe buddy : Martin
@@ScottPaddock even if you don't do comparisons, that snippet about the chamber size was informative. Even the mouthpiece manufacturers don't explain those things as well as you did. I'd like to learn more.
Lots and lots and lots of practice! haha. The best way to get a persons sound is to transcribe their solos. It forces you to really pay attention to their nuisances. Phil is a dark sound, that is fat and full. His time is locked in and aggressive. He plays like he's having a lot of fun
An enjoyable and fast, though thorough, look at sax style and direction. After some twenty years of playing jazz I believe that time itself tends to form a player’s style unconsciously, just as flowing water smoothes and rounds pebbles. As the French say, style is the man himself...in the end you can only be who you are. Thank you for an enjoyable and incisive guide.
Don W
Ur tutorials are the best! Hands down!!!
Thank you!
The best saxophone teacher i have ever seen in youtube thank you
In my opinion you are the only sax tutor in TH-cam who is transferring knowledge.
Your videos are top, and I am glad , as a late starter in the sax world, I found your channel.
Thanks Scott.
Thank you!!!
The very first video on TH-cam without a dislike
Yet..... 😂😂😂😂
Scott, another quality video. I really missed your videos while you were touring. Although I could see you had a good time I’m glad you’re back.
It's good to be back, but what a crazy time in the world!
Scott Paddock glad you made it back before all hell broke loose😊
Awsome info, been thinking about this for a while. A great help. Thankyou 🙂
Glad it was helpful!
Another fantastic lesson and great advice. Thank you for your time as usual 🎷🎷
i live on TH-cam searching and viewing anything saxophone related. Find myself always coming back to your vids. You have a wonderful instructional approach. THANK YOU !
Charles Jordan his videos are thorough. I do the same thing. Better Sax is a good channel to add as well
Tinyae Music I purchased many of the Better Sax instructional courses and they have been extremely beneficial and I subscribe to Jay’s channel but Scott’s delivery style brings me back to him consistently. I have had other musicians who do not play sax make very positive comments on his instructional approach.
Scott ... Not only is this yet another HIGH QUALITY "Vutorial" produced by you ... It is one of my absolute favorites! Thank you so much for opening up this discussion and adding meat to the bones of such a crucial subject that many experienced saxophonists seem to avoid and novice to intermediate ones are lost about.
In the three years of learning to play the saxophone, I became concerned about finding my own sound but I did not know what that really meant. It became clearer when I read the book "Developing A Personal Saxophone Sound" by David Liebman (fantastic read) but it was not a conversation and so, I had no feedback. Recently, a very experienced and accomplished professional remarked to me that they are able to identify me because I have been developing my own sound. I was not sure what that meant though it was offered as a compliment.
You started this discussion with an explanation of what defines a personal sound and this has certainly helped be unequivocally identify what I have been sculpting for myself. This was an absolutely fascinating and important session. THANK YOU!
Could you put a part two of this vutorial together and talk about things like: vocabulary, motivic playing, chord changes, release and tension, melodic devices and of course sound effects (I thought of Joshua Redman when typed that).
Excellent content, man! Keep safe and be well!
I am returning to the "dark side" for now ... ;-)
Thanks! That is what I was aiming for. Not necessarily to guide someone into finding their own sound, but more giving them things to think about when it comes to developing it. Yes, I definitely plan on a part 2 and 3, but I need to figure out how to sum it up in 15 minutes. haha.
13:40 absolutely! One influence on me is Vangelis' exciting keyboard soloing on Dervish D off the Spiral album and other solos on the Albedo 0.39 album. Such a pity he didn't do more albums like those two but I guess moody ambient tracks were more to his taste.
Thank you, very helpful!
Thank you, love this tips
Thanks, Scott. This is super helpful. You so often address topics that no one else deals with. This topic is a good one now for me because I'm trying to find some way to do improv that sounds interesting, has some kind of musical theme, and is more than scales. It's a hard leap to make to be expressive and not worry about hitting bad notes.
Yeah, making the next step past just playing the right notes is a big one. Start with adding chromaticism (approach notes).
Thanks for making us look inside for our own answers. Well done!
I totally agree with you. Personally I’m very bright and I have been greatly influenced by the electric guitar in classic rock and blues so those riffs and sounds you can hear in my playing but when I’m playing the melody Aretha Franklin/Freddie Mercury seems to show through a bit and that’s part of playing lyrically.
Hi Scott...thank-you for the advice in this video. With the time I've been afforded due to our current circumstances. I've picked up my soprano again (I had been focusing on alto). I find soprano requires a more "gentle" touch, however, I often revert to the way I have been playing alto. I would appreciate any suggestions you could offer for adapting to the soprano.
Thank-you again for sharing. I pray you and those you love stay safe, healthy, optimistic and strong.
...peace & blessings...
G
Record yourself playing. It's easier to analyse the gap between what you sound like and what you want to sound like.
Scott, you explain the differences well. Nice job K
Great demonstration. The articulation part was very enlightening!
Thanks!
10:43 reminder to practice this...
Nice tutorial about sound Padlock also the type of saxophone you play determines your sound alto and soprano is higher bright sounding and tenor and baritone is more darker
Hey Scott, I like your breakdown of sound. I especially appreciate your comment about listening to vocalists. Saxophone is one of those instruments that mimics the human voice. As a suggestion for your next video (maybe you already have done this) is to describe your set up for a dark or bright sound. Thanks a million! You sound Great!
good point design bright or dark in my case it would keep me between the two. and correction I do not intend to imitate
I love your bright funky sound. I too endeavour for a similar sound being a Maceo Parker fan. These videos are great being on Lockdown in GB.
I love Maceo too, and you can definitely hear his influence in my playing.
Exceptionally interesting and useful video, even though I'm looking to end up on the dark side. The Ella comment was fascinating. I guess I'm not going to get much from McCoy Tyner or Brad Mehldau but maybe there's something in say Alex Lifeson's soloing that I could steal. And I'll think more about those elements you mention.
Thanks a lot! really good tips, great video as always! Greetings from Bolivia :)
Thanks Vladimir!
Commenting to help your video place better
😁😁😁
Thank you Scott for this and all your videos. Another great video of yours. 🎼🎵🎶🎷
Thanks!!!
I had understood that the sound like the voice is typical of birth. example I never. I think it could sound like desxter, stan getd etc I continue watching the video thanks
Scott, thanks for the theme of this video. It helped me understand that there is no one way to articulate correctly and that this is an important choice when playing. Thank you!
Great vid, thanks for the insights and tips.
👍
Interesting vid -- it's frustrating to play and not have it sound like it is in your ear! I have already resolved to make that a 'me' issue and not a 'gear' issue though (mpc, reeds etc)...spent WAY too long with the latter on guitar to discover it was mostly the former.
I think when you're making progress on the "me" issue you'll be able to tell when there's a gear issue because you'll know exactly what's wrong rather than randomly swapping mouthpieces.
ALSO the difference between BALLADS and smooth jazz. Is it the same?
They can definitely be different. I did a video on playing a ballad... check it out.
Hi Scott, I just love all of your content, very informative and engaging. Thank you!
I appreciate that!
both are bad. I mean exaggerated when the sound is bright or dark etc.
This channel has helped me an embarrassing amount haha thanks man!
Great explanation of a concept rarely discussed.
Hey Scott, I would love a tutorial on switching between notes, my notes sound dry at times, when playing a melody that there are pauses in between, I don’t just feel that sleek connect between the notes
I think that is more about tonguing or breath control. I'll put it on the list
Always enjoy your Vids Scott. I believe you have a Barkley Brazil Kustom Pop. I have one too. Is there any difference between the Blue, and the Red one.
Thanks! No, just the color.
Hi Scott I am so glad U put this video video out. I like the dark side but like metal M/P Who make dark metal mouthpiece would you recc I could try for soprano. I would love to give you a million thumbs up BUT.
Hey! Thanks! Metal and dark don't go together. Metal mps are made to be bright.
Hi, thank you so much for your videos! I like the way you explain things, brake it into very clear parts, and giving examples of how it sounds. For me, that is a very good way to learn, and I have already learned a lot from you.
Thanks for the message Lillian - glad to hear you are learning some things from my channel 😁
Thanks for this information it's so important
This is so important Scott - I ripped up the rule book and developed my own - trying to play freely - I started on the P Mauriat 67 Rx but love the darker sound of the 66RX recentlty picked up -- great video thanks for posting always interesting
Yeah, I love how big and fat the sound is on those P. Mauriats. I own both of those horns as well.
Scott Paddock - love the dark sound plus really roars when u need to up your performance 👍👍🎷🎷😎😎
Hello Scott... am a subscriber of yours. A have watched most of your videos, very interesting and helpful. Is there any chance to take a private class from you through internet.
Yes, check out the description of this video for details on how to get in touch with me.
@@ScottPaddock thank you so much...
So good explanation master! Regards!!
Thank you Mr. Scott, Now I really can decide my favorite "bright" sound as my main sound...
Great video! Thanks!
Thanks Scott. Good tips.
Love it! Thank you!
Glad you like it!
Great exposition on this topic
Way back in the day in my early 20s I remember talking with a sax guy in a combo band. He told me that he listened to guitar players a lot for inspiration. I JUST discovered Doreen Ketchens (sp?) about two months ago and am thoroughly impressed with her skills on the clarinet!
Thanks for the video. Still trying to nail down what my “sound” is and if I want to change it.
Really awesome video man! Your channel is a great resource!
I appreciate that!
Super helpful! It was especially useful to hear your examples of different styles. Thanks!
Terrific presentation.. I play flute for years and want to learn sax..very good tips that are applicable to flute playing as well
Good information 🎷👍🏽
enjoyed this video. very educational & enlightening, it gives food for thought. Thanks, Scott
I think Kenny G is Great,
Another excellent intuitive video, this 75 year old is really making progress following all your tips. I'm locked down here in Scotland so bags of time for practice. Stay well, stay safe.
Thanks Brian!
Thank you buddy. I learn a lot and I appreciate that. have great luck.
Scott, Iam a devoted subscriber.You are a incredible player and teacher without a doubt . Your main ax seems to be alto , which I can appreciate . Just wondering what you think about tenor I have always felt it has more of a voice than alto Thanks JS
Hey Jerry, my voice is 100% alto, but I feel comfortable playing the tenor, although I rarely practice it. I usually play it for gigs, recording sessions, etc. and I hear really well on an Eb instrument, but not so well on a Bb instrument. It all comes down to where you hear your voice. It's funny my last world tour gig was 75% tenor... so needless to say, I became a lot more at home on the tenor.
@@ScottPaddock Thanks for your reply from anotha Baltimoron , me ,Jerry
Thanks a lot for your video, Scott! It guides me a lot to try to find out my own sound ☺️
Exelent.
Stunning sound... how do you mix your sound and what DAW do you use?
Hi Scott! I really like to get a P. Mauriat 67r, but they said these horn has bad intonation, its that true and what can we do to make in tune, cause I really like the sound, thank you
Hey! I've never played one with bad intonation and I've played about 20 of them. They are super solid modern horns!
Thank you much,
Thank you
You left out Mindi Abair. Can you dissect her style?
She's got the raspy rock and roll sax sound now, she use to be way more syrupy smooth jazz. I don't think there would be much interest in me devoting a video to her.
That’s fair.
What do you think about her Signiture mouthpiece, other than being super expensive?
www.wwbw.com/Theo-Wanne-Mindi-Abair-Custom-Alto-Saxophone-Mouthpiece-J32002.wwbw
Hi Scott. I'm kind of confused of what dark vs bright sound is. You said that you sound bright, but the bright sound to me is like a 'french horn sound', a round sound. I thought you sound dark and not bright. Maybe I mixed the terminology? I researched online about dark vs bright sound and mostly the explanations are opposite of what your description are as to dark/bright sounds. Any thought about this?
To me French horn is way darker than regular brass. Sticking to orchestral brass, it's a lot mellower than trombones and trumpets. I think Scott illustrated it quite well despite the mouthpiece he was using.
Ive been learning for the past 2 years ..... late to the party at 51, but this was really informative and well delivered. Thanks Scott.
Glad it was helpful!
What do you Think about leo p and Derek Brown
Ahhhh!!! I definitely should have mentioned both of them. I love both of them! They completely flipped the script and came up with their own original concept of playing the sax. AND both of them are super hard to emulate because their abilities to have such a unique sound takes a ton of work to accomplish
Scott Paddock i thought of it... I agree. Amazing sax players
Interesting thoughts Scott, so thanks. Are you consistent across different horns? I'm still developing my personal sound, but I like to play dark and slurred on tenor, but somewhat brighter and more articulated on alto.
Great question! I like a darker soprano sound. And my tenor sound is definitely more fuzzy and warm, but I can also get a serious pop out of it when I press on the gas. I definitely hear tenor as darker and less articulated.
Scott, I think you presented a very intuitive take on playing style. I feel you could have added 'motivation.' As a musician, what emotional effect are you attempting to produce with your music and style of playing? I suppose that is why there is no limit to how one can play the 12.
Hey Jay, yeah there are a lot of things I could have added. I plan on doing a couple videos on this, and these topics seemed like the best staring point.
Great and informative video as usual, Scott. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I’ve developed my sound by playing with better players and trying to sound somewhat like them. Better players make me play better. I personally like the smoother, darker, flowing sound. My main goal is to keep my tone steady and sounding full.
Playing with better players will definitely help you get better faster.
How does the make and model of the saxophone influence darkness and brightness? I think I'm beginning to understand how internal designs of mouthpieces and application of reeds affect tone. But when I listen to comparisons among saxophones, the same player might yield slight differences in tone between them, but perhaps larger differences in embellishments and delivery. Is there really tonal difference caused by saxophone design?
Yeah, some saxes are darker or brighter than others. Some project more and some are a bit stuffier (more resistance) so it all depends on what you are looking for. I prefer something with a huge sound that projects and blows easy. Most of the difference is going to be in reed and mouthpiece combination. The speed and pattern of your airstream is more what is going to determine how bright or dark you sound and that is determined mostly by your mp setup. However, the sax does also play a role.
Very helpful lessons indeed Scott...always nice to watch your sax lessons
Thanks!
I’m so pleased you touched on this subject. It’s given me an understanding as to where I am in my playing ( dark ) . Being somewhat older in age, I tend to play the standards and the slower pieces, almost crooning through my alto. Trying to simulate the style of Chris Botti on the trumpet.... 🙏🎷🙏🎷🙏 your posts are always so thorough.
Chris Botti definitely knows how to play a melody!! You should check out some Chet Baker too... similar style
Scott Paddock Chet Baker is definitely another favourite of mine... see the movie Born to be Blue, his story... excellent!🙏😊
Great teacher, great explanation!!! Congrats! Your channel rocks!
Thank Diego!
Another excellent lesson
Thanks!
Great tips! Thank you!
Great tutorial again. 👍 Makes me step back and look at what I do and move it around a bit, tweek it.🎷🎷
😁😁
The audio levels between the intro, and the content is really off. Great video though. I opted for a brighter sound personally. Pretty sold on the tone of Berg Larsen pieces/that type of baffling (and step baffles). Have definitely been influenced by your tone personally Scott--despite playing Tenor.
Sorry, on this video I actually really concentrated on talking softer and slower (2 complaints I get a lot) so I didn't adjust the intro properly. I need to do more tenor videos! On the last tour I was on, I played mainly tenor. Check out my IG for some examples
@@ScottPaddock Oh no worries man. Just realized I had to turn my monitors way up, then got blasted by the outro lol.
Awesome video
Thanks!
Thanks Scott for that excellent info on getting your own sound! I tend to be more like the sound you lean towards which is that Bright sound (though I am no where near your level of playing LoL. I haven't been playing vary long) I listen to Lenny Pickett alot ( your playing reminds of) Another Sax player I really like his sound alot is Jr. Walker on songs like What does it take " and his Solo on the song Urgent by Foreigner your playing reminds of that solo as well. Didn't mean to ramble on....
Keep up the Excellent channel Scott!
Cheers!
Thanks! I actually got to play a gig with Lenny Picket in my 20s. He was absolutely killing. He had a huge influence on my playing when I was developing my style... definitely with the overtone stuff and the altissimo.
@@ScottPaddock What about Jr Walker? You never mentioned him Lol...... I understand we all have different opinions on certain Artist.. Stay healthy!
Cheers!
How much are your Skype lessons? How much for an hour long lesson?
send me a private message for www.scottpaddock.com
Very informational!
Thanks, Scott. I played a Selmer Serie III throughout middle and high school (I think I got it around 2003). Honestly, I didn't take it seriously enough back then, but would like to get back into it now. However, I'm seeing a lot of people online claiming it's designed for dark, "classical" music and isn't ideal for jazz. Is that bs or is there any truth to a sax being "classical?" Also, I find myself drawn to brighter sax tones. If my horn is darker than others, can I overcome that with a bright, metal mouthpiece or would I be better off selling it and getting a new horn? Thanks!
Hey Clayton - yeah, those SERIE models are known for being dark and a bit stuffy, and they are definitely way more prevalent in the classical world than the jazz world. If you compare it side by side with a P. Mauriat, Eastman, Yamaha, Cannonball, or a Reference 54 you are going to notice a very big difference in the brightness of the horn as well as the projection. If I were you, I'd go out and start trying some new horns and see if there's anything that you like better. If you find one you love, buy it and sell your Selmer. Those selmer's keep their value so you'd probably come close to breaking even.
Hi Scott, I have definitely been playing on the bright side. I have a very bright metal mouthpiece with a step baffle. I find it works for most styles of music I like to play. But sometimes I just can't get the sound I want when playing a smoother jazz tune or a ballad. I have considered having two setups. One that is bright and another that is more towards dark. Is this common practice or should I just stick with the one mouthpiece and try and be as versatile with it as I can?
I'd try to stick with one and try and make it work, or maybe get a setup that is a little more versatile. My current setup is a laser beam shot through a cannon haha.... so it took me a while to reign it in to sound good on a ballad. Start off thinking about your airspeed. That baffle is pushing the air really fast, so when you go to play a ballad pull back some to slow up the air stream.
@@ScottPaddock Thanks Scott! Makes sense.
Man you are great
🌼🌺🌹
Great topic Thanks Dick
Great take and insights on a topic that is an ocean of possibilities!
Thanks! It was a tough one to figure out how to teach.
Top saxplayer!!!
That was actually a really interesting video .. thanks.
Do you have a video talking more about gear ? You went through it very quickly regarding the mouthpiece .. but I think it would be very useful to have a more in-depth look and different mouthpiece styles and the different effect they can have on sound and playing.
I’ve been watching you videos for a while now and they are always good, I always manage to take something out of them to my practice room. Thanks Scott keep them coming.
Martin
Thanks! I don't do a lot of gear comparison videos, just because I don't try that much gear. haha. But I have been thinking about doing some mp videos on stuff that I do have.
Scott Paddock
Yeah that’s a fair point .. I guess you need lots of different mouthpieces to show the difference.
My thinking was, for example I also play tennis and in the tennis club there is always much debate over different racquets. Weight, head size, string tension etc etc. But for me I only started playing 4 years ago. So I bought a racquet I have no idea how other set ups will effect my game. So unless I go buy lots, (and they are not the sort of thing you buy every day) how can you find the differences.
And I’m guessing it’s the same with mouthpieces. I hear all about rake and bevels and tone chamber and flattened or rounded rails, tip opening. but I don’t really know what each thing does to effect the sound. I’m currently using a Jody Jazz 6m hard rubber on a 1968 Selmer Mkvi .. I can make it growl with effort but it seems to be the more middle of the road set up. Anyway sorry to go on a bit but is an interesting subject I think. Thanks again Scott keep those great videos coming. I have nothing but time to practice at the moment. Stay safe buddy : Martin
@@ScottPaddock even if you don't do comparisons, that snippet about the chamber size was informative. Even the mouthpiece manufacturers don't explain those things as well as you did. I'd like to learn more.
What kind of mouthpiece are you using for Alto?
Barkley Brazil Kustom Pop 7 blue (all my gear is listed in the description)
I have tried 10 different mouthpieces in the last 5 years. The Barkley is by far the best. I highly recommend it.
You never talk about smooth jazz. The way to play smooth jazz, mouth piece, ways of playing smooth jazz etc. I need a video.
I'll add that to the list!
Thank you!!!!!!!
😁😁😁😁😁
How can I sound like phil woods? Any ideas?
Lots and lots and lots of practice! haha. The best way to get a persons sound is to transcribe their solos. It forces you to really pay attention to their nuisances. Phil is a dark sound, that is fat and full. His time is locked in and aggressive. He plays like he's having a lot of fun
Noooo, you're getting older 😭