I'm eight months into my training, so I presume this categorizes me as a beginner. I started out with a Yamaha 4C and then moved to a 5C. Then just recently I purchased a Jody Jazz metal DV CHI. This change to a metal mouthpiece, especially with the 7* tip, gave my embouchure a rude awakening. I managed to only blow air on my first attempt. But after 3.5 weeks of sticking to it, I'm almost back to the same level of play as I had before. The sound from my Jody Jazz mouthpiece is remarkable. I'm glad I didn't give up on it.
ive been using a 6c mouthpiece on my tenor for 40 years..i play mainly bossa novas at resturaunts..and get endless compliments on how smooth and lovely it sounds..i wouldnt use anything else...
Just started a week ago, JeanPaul AS400 - bought a 4C based on all the TH-cam instructor recommendations. Tried the stock mouthpiece yesterday - prefer the 4C. Found the stock mouthpiece a bit harder in the upper and weak. But I’m a total n00b at this point so hard for me to know what’s me vs the mouthpiece :)
If I had to start all over again I would pick a 6 tip opening and the softest reed available, and my believe is that the reed is the most important piece of the puzzle 🤷
Great advice as always Nigel, and have to agree, the Yami 4C is great for starting out. Been playing just over a year now and switched from the generic mouthpiece that came with my Antigua Winds Alto to the 4C, and what a difference it made. Was a recommendation from my tutor! Bought a new Yamaha YAS-480 last Christmas (as a present to myself) "from my wife", and continued with the Yamaha 4C, and what a sound! Definitely the one for me! Love the videos, have been a real source of inspiration for me and great for advice, hints and tips! Keep up the great work!
Came back to playing alto sax after being out of my high school band for 40 years. Bought a used 90 year old Conn New Wonder with, I think, a 90 year old mouthpiece. Very hard to play and switched over to the Yamaha 4C (per one of your earlier video recommendation) and it is much easier to play with. The original mouthpiece (which is so old I can't read any of the markings) has a much mellower sound but the hard to hit the high notes and doesn't cut through the other instruments in the band I play with. The Yamaha 4C really helped me out, thanks for recommending it!
hia i'm a beginner just got my self a 4c mouthpiece and really happy with it, and thank you, you have just saved me some money as i was thinking of buying a new ligature at your recommendation i shall wait 😊 thanks Daz
I started playing soprano sax in September (four months ago), after having started clarinet in April. My sax is a Yamaha and came with a 4C. Going for a more classical sound, I found the 4C was absolutely beautiful in the upper register, but I couldn't really get the sound I wanted in the lower register, and I also had trouble getting a solid attack on the low notes at lower volumes. Even at louder volumes, I would still sometimes get overtones on the lower notes, though I'm sure a more experienced player would not have this problem. I recently got a Selmer Concept, it it makes a big difference---especially on the low end. The sound is a lot closer to what I have in my head. Very smooth and a bit more... "reedy", though it can also get a decent amount of honk if you're into that. The low register also blends with the upper register better on this mouthpiece, and my troubles with overtones and attack have more or less disappeared. I would also say this mouthpiece offers a wider dynamic range. It can be very loud or very soft. The one possible downside I would give for the Selmer vs. the 4C is that the sound in the upper range can be more piercing, and it takes more control to get smooth, round sound. The sound of the 4C in the upper register is always sweet and beautiful, but is also not as flexible. Overall, I would say that, even for a beginner on soprano, the Selmer mouthpiece easier to play (it has a very narrow tip opening), while still being more flexible and responsive than the 4C. Of course, someone with a different playing style, sound concept and reed may get different results. Of course, the Selmer also costs several times as much as a 4C and may not be a viable option for some for this reason.
Hello Nigel, My teacher told me the same. I had a used Yamaha Alto YAS 275 with unknown origin mouthpiece. The 4C changed a lot the sound of the instrument. Then I upgraded to a very old YAS 62 second hand that came with a Selmer S80 C*. The transition was smooth.
Thank you for this recommendation. After a forty year layoff I recently started playing again. Back then my go-to mouthpiece was a Claude Lakey Jazz model and my second mouthpiece was a Berg Larsen 100 M. I was playing a lot of rock/fusion/latin bands in Los Angeles. I was using 3 1/2 Rico Reeds. I tried using a 1 1/2 reed on both of my old mouthpieces but I just could not make it work. I was immediately able to produce a good sound on the Yamaha 4C...with the 1 1/2 Vandoren reed. Since the upper register is a bit thine, I will probably use my old reed clipper to turn one of them into a 2 reed fairly soon. Once again, thanks for the advice.
I played on a Yamaha 4C alto when I started playing which came with a Rovner Dark ligature, then when I got a Yamaha YAS-280 it came with the 4C mouthpiece and a metal ligature. After 5 months then I upgraded to a Meyer 6M but the tip was too open for me then so I got a Selmer S80 C** and played on it until I got a Selmer Claude Delangle mouthpiece and liked it far more even if it is a bit more resistant. Now I play on a Selmer Claude Delangle, Selmer as my main mouthpiece and sometimes a Selmer Soloist E and if I want a bit of a brighter, sound and an easier more free blowing feel, a JodyJazz HR* C* and 5M. With my soprano I play on a Vandoren Optimum SL3 mainly although I might replace it for a Selmer Concept. Also a Rousseau Studio Jazz SJ6 that came with my Conn-Selmer Avant DSS-200 soprano. A while ago I decided to look up what the Yamaha plastic mouthpieces are made of and I got phenol resin, which I can't confirm but if its true, the mouthpiece might not be that safe to actually play on since looking up what phenol resin is, it comes from a reaction between phenol and formaldehyde which is toxic and doesn't seem safe to have in your mouth, so I'd prefer the hard rubber custom versions of the mouthpieces just to be on the safe side, even if they do cost a bit more than the plastic versions.
I am using the 4c on the alto. Watched your video with Jodi Jazz, did the 6 questions and Tyler responded within 24 hours suggesting the H*C* for my new tenor. Ordered it along with the power ring. Anxious to play and see how it does. Thanks to you and your team for putting together these great videos.
With the sax I inherited where three mouthpieces, two are too jazz typed, but the third is a Selmer s80 C* which seems to be the easiest of those three and suitable for a beginner. I'm having a new one for my birthday though, a Selmer s90 180 which seems to be the beginner recommendation for this brand. I'm partial as I worked for this brand and coincidentally inherited and old Selmer alto saxophone after that. :) It's good to know that good beginner mouthpiece can be purchased for not that much money.
September 2021 great info on the 4C it helps me get my 10 year old grandson to understand why I've bought him a 4C Alto mouthpiece thank you for your time and your videos they are greatly appreciated!
I've been using the mouthpiece that came with my TJ Classic Alto for years, my old tutor never told me the importance of upgrading the mouthpiece. Will have to pick one up. I have a Tenor coming soon too so will upgrade the mouthpiece on that too.
Good video and advice Nigel. The Yamaha 4C is definitely the best mpc for a beginner. I'd say 5C for a tenor though - even a beginner needs a little more tip opening on tenor. I use a Theo Wanne New York Bros 2 (for jazz/pop/house) and Selmer S90 (classical) on alto and a Jody Jazz HR* on Tenor. That said, I think it's right to point out that the more advanced you get, the less important the mouthpiece is (as you say). I can get pretty much any sound I want out of the S90 with voicing and embouchure adjustments; the Wanne just gives me more projection.
Seems hard to get the d and e out on this mouthpiece with 2.5 reed on alto. I have to blow hard and get out of breath. Should I use a lower size reed? Like 1.5? Or is it most likely me?
I am definitely going to switch to this mouth piece because I am still playing on the same 3 year old crappy vandoren mouth piece I got with my sax.Thanks for making this video.
A brilliant mp that I was told to buy very early on to replace the mp that came with my Alto. All student Sax should be supplied with this mp to help you get going.
Thanks for this, Nigel... it is very useful. I have been playing with an unbranded plastic mouthpiece that came with my Julius Keilwerth ST90 tenor when I bought it second-hand. I don't know if there is anything wrong with it, but if I can have something to blame for my poor playing, I would be glad to pass the buck! The Yamaha Tenor 4C sells here in Canada for only $33.99 CAD, which works out to less than 20 UK pounds... I guess I will treat myself this Christmas to a new mouthpiece and hope this would help my learning in Sax School. Thanks again!
I play a Meyer 7MM for lead alto big bands, combo work, Bebop jazz, and even Rock and Roll wedding gigs. The Yamaha 4C body shape is a copy of a Meyer with slightly different inner chamber, more clarinet like, where as the Meyer is a New York round chamber with hollowed out sidewalls.
For a professional, in order to use a tip that small, .063", you would need a somewhat harder reed. a 3.5 or a 4. Most beginners embouchure are not developed yet and they would play on a soft reed like a 2. The combination of a small tip and soft reed give that junior high beginner somewhat out of tune tone, that we all remember from 50 years ago.
My Sakkusu tenor came with a Yamaha 4c, definitely a good one to start with! Sax and mouthpiece, I've been impressed with both. No problems with it and could play it from day one. After about five months I got an Otto Link Tone Edge 6 which was a lot different and took a little getting used to, but after a few months on that I'm quite comfortable with it and really loving it.
Yamaha 4C and 5C (alto and tenor) are great starter pieces, but after 6 to 12 months of serious study, I personally feel that upgrading to more appropriate mouthpieces (depending on style) should be investigated. Although those Yamaha mpcs are great easy players, other possibilities need to be investigated. I play jazz, and I would have never realized my best scenario is more open step baffle pieces with softer reeds, although if and when I really need to get some fat in the lowest notes, with more warmth than my embouchure can provide, I will use a minimum rollover baffle piece that’s not quite so open. It all depends on what I’m ultimately trying to convey tonally. As far as ligatures are concerned, as long as it holds the reed correctly and securely in place and allows it to vibrate, while not making it difficult for you to place it there, the reed is much more important. It has to cooperate with your embouchure and the mouthpiece. If you’re worried about the tone the reed will provide, investigate french file cut versus not. You can also move a reed up a tenth of a millimeter or two if the reed is slightly soft. You have some room the other way too if it’s slightly stiff and the tip rail is thick enough.
My YAS-21 (which I got for free!) came with an Encore C* mouthpiece. It is a plastic mouthpiece but I love it. It is certainly better than the generic music store mouthpiece that came with my first alto I bought used. I am thinking about another mouthpiece since I keep one horn at home and one at the office. What I’d really like is one that is easiest to play (and also to play softly for at home). I think maybe with a soft reed. I do like Rico 2.5 but even easier to play softly would be better.
Ten years ago ago I came back from a holiday in Canada and visited Sax.co.uk for a laugh to blow a cheap sax. Tried nine, surprised at the quality and bought an Elkhart II. Worked on the mpiece supplied to open it up, went too far and ruined it. Bought a 4c. Great sound. Got used to it got a 6c. Dropped it cleaning it and needed another for a gig that day. Got a 7c - a lot bigger sound. Traded up to a Beechler Bellite 8. Definitely not for a beginner - a wild beast! The Yamahas give a big bang for your bucks. Top notch for the price - I felt like I was stealing from them. LoL. PS found the Fibracell synths worked well with them and any lig.
I actually have that mouthpiece, I got it when I bought my first Alto and it's great! The guy at my local music store must know his mouthpieces. I got a Theo Wanne mouthpiece months ago to have a more bright high pitched sound, and I wasn't really that good with it. It's definitely a professional mouthpiece so it's something to work towards so right now I'm practicing with my Yamaha mouthpiece to improve my play. But my mouth's healing at the moment so I've been playing piano.
I have many mouthpieces including the Yamaha which I do like, but I always go back to the Selmer C* . For alto it's about 150 dollars. So I think it's the next step up to the Yamaha.
I use a Claude Lakey 4.3 with a plastic cover Rico Royal Reed, so as u can see, I have a very soft bite,you described the 4/C as smooth, does that mean low volume, the music I play is with about 50 other players using alto, tenor, Baritone and Bass saxes.
Hey Nigel, great to see you recommend a Yamaha mouthpiece as a beginning upgrade. A couple of months ago I upgraded to the Yamaha Tenor 5C. From the generic one that came with the Cecilio Mendini Tenor. Always went with Vandoren reeds but month prior switched over to a Legere 2.0. Straight away I noticed it felt an ease and more rounded tone of the notes. Great low cost easy upgrade. Cheers to you and fellow SaxSchool peeps!
On alto my first upgrade was to an Otto Link Tone Edge 7, which I am happy with. I have a Yamaha 4C soprano mouthpiece, in hope of someday getting a soprano sax (hoping the 4C will help me get a "nasal" oboe-like tone.)
would agree that the Yamaha 4c is one of the best starting mouthpieces out there another worth a mention is the Rico b4/b5, it also a great starting mouthpiece and cheaper than the Yamaha, so maybe cost important when starting out....
I bought a cheap one on Amazon and I think it’s hindering me more than anything. Gonna go get one of these Yamaha 4C. ( never played sax or any instrument like it until I won a $500 sax on a auction for $60!)
I started out with a Yamaha 4C which came with my first tenor sax, a YTS-275. That mpc was great for me as a learner, you're completely right about this. After some years I wanted to advance my sound and tried several mouthpieces and ended up with a Otto Link Super Tone Master 7 (metal). But I had some difficulties with it, so (after another few years) I tried again some mpcs and ended up with a Vandoren V16 M7. Sounded the same as the Otto Link (for me), but was easier to control. Since then I never stopped to try out new mpcs. My current one is a Jody Jazz Jet 7* (hard rubber). I was overwhelmed how "free blowing" this one is. And the sound is even more what I want it to be. I guess though that I will try more moutpieces in the future, since there is ALWAYS room for improvement... :)
I mainly play with the YAM 4C that I bought with my refurbished Buescher. But it came also with a (old) Buffet Crampon mp with a C or G on it. Compared to the YAM 4C it has a huge tip opening and needs lots of air.
I received a used ~20 year old YAS 23 two years ago that came with some weird brand of mouthpiece I literally can find zero information about to this day. It's got a tip opening of about a Yamaha 6C and came with two unused Rico 4 reeds... Yeah I went out immediately and got a Yamah 4C and some 2.5 Rico orange box reeds. The only upgrade I've made since is switching to Rico Royal reeds. I picked up a Vandoren V16 jazz mouthpiece about a year ago, but honestly I waffle between it and the 4C because I can't get the volume I want on the Vandoren (That's a me problem, not the mouthpiece! I need to practice more 👍)
I had a 4C with my used tenor saxophone. I was having trouble getting all clear notes so I bought a Select Jazz 7M and a Legere American cut. I can't get much out of the Select, I don't know what I'm doing wrong, so I went back to 4C and the American cut. I get on really well with this. Unfortunately I dropped the mouthpiece on a hard floor and chipped it and damaged the reed. I've been playing a year now and still can't get on with the Select so I am going to buy a new 4C and American cut. Will I ever get used to the Jazz/ I play an hour a day every day.
I bought a Mendini by Cecilio alto sax for my 8yr old son. It came with a generic looking 4 tip opening mouth piece and a box of 2.5 cecilio reeds. These together were next to impossible for us to use. I got a yamaha 4C with the softest rico reeds guitar center had which were Rico 2.0 strength reeds and a new ligature for the new mouthpiece as well. With this setup were doing much better. I feel like especially once the octave key is depressed that there feels like significant resistance to air flow. I'll take a big breath and play forte through several measures and have to breath not because I'm out of breath but because I just need to breath. Is this normal to feel for a beginner? I feel like I'm having to push almost like playing a trumpet but not quite that pronounced. Maybe it's just an embouchure issue and lacking endurance there. Or maybe I should try some 1.5 strength reeds. I was thinking maybe I need a bigger tip opening to let more air pass. What I really need is to keep playing for a minimum of an hr each day. I start with my tuner and concert B flat scale on long tones for 10 min were warmed up (both the horn and myself). Then I start working on essential elements alto book #1. I'm still learning all the fingerings and trying to memorize those so I can read ahead and anticipate the next few notes. It's slow going but hopefully will pay off. I'm going to go and try a bunch of different mouthpieces for a few days a week until I decide what to get next. I'm hoping to join our community band here in Corpus Christi TX.
I have Yanagisawa T5 and Otto Link Tone Edge 7* with low baffle (darker sound) and copy of Otto Link Slant Signature 7* with high baffle (brighter). I play mostly Vandoren Java red cut 2,5. Except this I have Yamaha 5C which is very easy to play but I don't use it.
As I started to play saxophone 2 years ago I have had alto with Yanagisawa 6 rubber mouthpiece. It was difficult to play, embouchure must be too firm. Now I have bad habits, I am overtuned due to heavy press on the reed and older reeds often squeezes.
I bought 2nd hand Jupiter Alto that came with Yamaha 6C and Jupiter 4C. I mainly play with Yamaha 6C. Seems better sounding than Jupiter 4C. As I know only difference of 6C to Yamaha 4C is tip opening. Nigel, how do You think, is there big difference between Yamaha 4C and 6C for beginner?
I have been playing for 8 months. I bought a YAS 23, and quickly upgraded from the generic mouthpiece, which was in the case, to a 4C. A couple of weeks ago, i bought a gorgeous YAS 62, purple logo. I'm in love. =D I also bought a Meyer 5M mouthpiece. I love the bright sound, but i do have squeaking and chirping issues here and there. I want it to work. Is it too early for the Meyer? Too ambitious? Also, i have the Rovner Versa, as well as the Van Doren Optimum, both of which are great.
My tenor mouthpiece is Hermes USA, never seen any information about these anywhere. It’s a plastic, flat baffle medium chamber fairly open. I’ve had to run the facing off on a surface plate with wet and dry paper to get it nice and flat and it plays quite nicely, although I’ve never used anything else so I don’t know if I need to upgrade and that’s my problem. On my bari I’ve got an Esprit Bari, plastic stepped baffle medium chamber. Again I’ve never seen these anywhere but I’m looking at a Jody Jazz HR* 7 hard rubber one for that because the baffle is more a small rollover and the one I have is very severe looking. I’ve watched a number of discussions on the differences between the baffle types and I think this JJ one will be a bit more versatile in regards to music style and situation. What sort of baffle and chamber does the Yamaha have?
Hi I have been playing 4-5 months now. I have a Buescher Elkhartind mouthpiece. After seeing this i purchased the 4c and found it very difficult. The sound was very airy and tonguing was difficult. I found I have to blow much harder. Any thoughts on where I may be going wrong here. Thanks Nigel
Hi, i started to learn sax (Tenor Jupiter 789-787) , one month ago. I have Got selmer goldentone 3 tenor sax mouthpiece, but is diffucult for me to play. Should I change to Yamaha 4C or 5c ?thanks ;)
Hi Nigel. I love these videos and considering joining sax school, but would like to get to know my sax better, first. I am a beginner have been viewing many videos on youtube. I have just bought a new Buffet Crampon Paris alto. I immediately upgraded the mouth piece to Yamaha 4C. while I am practicing scales I frequently get squeaks. I have checked myself and I'm sure I am not holding any other keys down. what could be wrong. Embouchure, mouthpiece, reed position again I go to lengths and take time lining these up etc.?
Ne crois-tu pas que cette embouchure peut être jouée depuis le joueur amateur jusqu'au joueur professionnel ? Le bas prix n'y change absolument rien , si ce n'est pour les snobs de toutes catégories ! A mon humble avis , Nigel , cette embouchure est vraiment une des meilleures pour TOUS LES SAXONAUTES , petits joueurs débutants jusqu'aux vieux ténordistes qui ont traîné leurs tuyaux un peu partout dans le monde..............Et la 5 c me semble encore meilleure , toujours à ce prix digne d'un vieux Chinois sans le sou , hahahaha !!! Bonne journée......et fais gaffe au Covid !!!!!
I'm a beginner on an Earlham alto. The mouthpiece is a Bill Lewington classic. I'm using Van Doren reeds at the moment. the sound seems to be ok but then i'm untrained. Shall i stick with this combo until a little more experienced?
Hi I bought a 4c Yamaha, it is loose on the cork where the one with the sax from a chap that play it in a band fits well , do they all have a different fit and I need re cork for each. Thanks great help , but iv hit a small problem.
I played on a 4C for about 30 years. They're great and easy to use - easy to get a good sound out of!
Yes Nigel, I started with a Chinese one which was a waste of my time and plastic. Moved to a 4C and life is now good.
Good to hear that Colin.
I'm eight months into my training, so I presume this categorizes me as a beginner. I started out with a Yamaha 4C and then moved to a 5C. Then just recently I purchased a Jody Jazz metal DV CHI. This change to a metal mouthpiece, especially with the 7* tip, gave my embouchure a rude awakening. I managed to only blow air on my first attempt. But after 3.5 weeks of sticking to it, I'm almost back to the same level of play as I had before. The sound from my Jody Jazz mouthpiece is remarkable. I'm glad I didn't give up on it.
I agree with this. As a beginner, I upgraded to a 5C immediately. The only reason I didn't get a 4C is because they were sold out.
ive been using a 6c mouthpiece on my tenor for 40 years..i play mainly bossa novas at resturaunts..and get endless compliments on how smooth and lovely it sounds..i wouldnt use anything else...
That’s great Jon! The 6c is clearly working for you.
As a beginner for a long time .... I really appreciate the music guide which accompanies your playing .. I still sometimes get lost .
Cheers Tracey.
Just started a week ago, JeanPaul AS400 - bought a 4C based on all the TH-cam instructor recommendations. Tried the stock mouthpiece yesterday - prefer the 4C. Found the stock mouthpiece a bit harder in the upper and weak. But I’m a total n00b at this point so hard for me to know what’s me vs the mouthpiece :)
The 4C is a great choice and I like the AS400 from Jean Paul. It’s a good solid sax.
If I had to start all over again I would pick a 6 tip opening and the softest reed available, and my believe is that the reed is the most important piece of the puzzle 🤷
Great advice as always Nigel, and have to agree, the Yami 4C is great for starting out. Been playing just over a year now and switched from the generic mouthpiece that came with my Antigua Winds Alto to the 4C, and what a difference it made. Was a recommendation from my tutor!
Bought a new Yamaha YAS-480 last Christmas (as a present to myself) "from my wife", and continued with the Yamaha 4C, and what a sound! Definitely the one for me! Love the videos, have been a real source of inspiration for me and great for advice, hints and tips! Keep up the great work!
I’ve just bought a Yani and yep I’m using my 4c not the Yani mp that it came with ☺️
Came back to playing alto sax after being out of my high school band for 40 years. Bought a used 90 year old Conn New Wonder with, I think, a 90 year old mouthpiece. Very hard to play and switched over to the Yamaha 4C (per one of your earlier video recommendation) and it is much easier to play with. The original mouthpiece (which is so old I can't read any of the markings) has a much mellower sound but the hard to hit the high notes and doesn't cut through the other instruments in the band I play with. The Yamaha 4C really helped me out, thanks for recommending it!
hia i'm a beginner just got my self a 4c mouthpiece and really happy with it, and thank you, you have
just saved me some money as i was thinking of buying a new ligature at your recommendation i shall wait
😊 thanks
Daz
No worries Darren! Glad this video helped.
I started playing soprano sax in September (four months ago), after having started clarinet in April. My sax is a Yamaha and came with a 4C. Going for a more classical sound, I found the 4C was absolutely beautiful in the upper register, but I couldn't really get the sound I wanted in the lower register, and I also had trouble getting a solid attack on the low notes at lower volumes. Even at louder volumes, I would still sometimes get overtones on the lower notes, though I'm sure a more experienced player would not have this problem.
I recently got a Selmer Concept, it it makes a big difference---especially on the low end. The sound is a lot closer to what I have in my head. Very smooth and a bit more... "reedy", though it can also get a decent amount of honk if you're into that. The low register also blends with the upper register better on this mouthpiece, and my troubles with overtones and attack have more or less disappeared. I would also say this mouthpiece offers a wider dynamic range. It can be very loud or very soft.
The one possible downside I would give for the Selmer vs. the 4C is that the sound in the upper range can be more piercing, and it takes more control to get smooth, round sound. The sound of the 4C in the upper register is always sweet and beautiful, but is also not as flexible.
Overall, I would say that, even for a beginner on soprano, the Selmer mouthpiece easier to play (it has a very narrow tip opening), while still being more flexible and responsive than the 4C. Of course, someone with a different playing style, sound concept and reed may get different results. Of course, the Selmer also costs several times as much as a 4C and may not be a viable option for some for this reason.
My Setups:
Rico Graftonite 7 soprano
4C Alto
Vandoren V16 T8 Tenor
Selmer Soloist C** Bari
Hello Nigel, My teacher told me the same. I had a used Yamaha Alto YAS 275 with unknown origin mouthpiece. The 4C changed a lot the sound of the instrument. Then I upgraded to a very old YAS 62 second hand that came with a Selmer S80 C*. The transition was smooth.
Thank you for this recommendation. After a forty year layoff I recently started playing again. Back then my go-to mouthpiece was a Claude Lakey Jazz model and my second mouthpiece was a Berg Larsen 100 M. I was playing a lot of rock/fusion/latin bands in Los Angeles. I was using 3 1/2 Rico Reeds. I tried using a 1 1/2 reed on both of my old mouthpieces but I just could not make it work. I was immediately able to produce a good sound on the Yamaha 4C...with the 1 1/2 Vandoren reed. Since the upper register is a bit thine, I will probably use my old reed clipper to turn one of them into a 2 reed fairly soon. Once again, thanks for the advice.
You’re welcome. My first ever metal mouthpiece back in the 1980s was a Berg Larsen. Classic. Great to hear you are back playing.
Thanks for the advice very helpful Nigel.
Glad it was helpful!
I played on a Yamaha 4C alto when I started playing which came with a Rovner Dark ligature, then when I got a Yamaha YAS-280 it came with the 4C mouthpiece and a metal ligature. After 5 months then I upgraded to a Meyer 6M but the tip was too open for me then so I got a Selmer S80 C** and played on it until I got a Selmer Claude Delangle mouthpiece and liked it far more even if it is a bit more resistant. Now I play on a Selmer Claude Delangle, Selmer as my main mouthpiece and sometimes a Selmer Soloist E and if I want a bit of a brighter, sound and an easier more free blowing feel, a JodyJazz HR* C* and 5M. With my soprano I play on a Vandoren Optimum SL3 mainly although I might replace it for a Selmer Concept. Also a Rousseau Studio Jazz SJ6 that came with my Conn-Selmer Avant DSS-200 soprano.
A while ago I decided to look up what the Yamaha plastic mouthpieces are made of and I got phenol resin, which I can't confirm but if its true, the mouthpiece might not be that safe to actually play on since looking up what phenol resin is, it comes from a reaction between phenol and formaldehyde which is toxic and doesn't seem safe to have in your mouth, so I'd prefer the hard rubber custom versions of the mouthpieces just to be on the safe side, even if they do cost a bit more than the plastic versions.
I am using the 4c on the alto. Watched your video with Jodi Jazz, did the 6 questions and Tyler responded within 24 hours suggesting the H*C* for my new tenor. Ordered it along with the power ring. Anxious to play and see how it does. Thanks to you and your team for putting together these great videos.
With the sax I inherited where three mouthpieces, two are too jazz typed, but the third is a Selmer s80 C* which seems to be the easiest of those three and suitable for a beginner.
I'm having a new one for my birthday though, a Selmer s90 180 which seems to be the beginner recommendation for this brand.
I'm partial as I worked for this brand and coincidentally inherited and old Selmer alto saxophone after that. :)
It's good to know that good beginner mouthpiece can be purchased for not that much money.
Just starting to learn the saxophone, will be starting on the Yamaha 4C
Good choice Walter.
September 2021 great info on the 4C it helps me get my 10 year old grandson to understand why I've bought him a 4C Alto mouthpiece thank you for your time and your videos they are greatly appreciated!
I've been using the mouthpiece that came with my TJ Classic Alto for years, my old tutor never told me the importance of upgrading the mouthpiece.
Will have to pick one up.
I have a Tenor coming soon too so will upgrade the mouthpiece on that too.
good stuff!
Starting out on a hire Trevor James 'The Horn' tenor. Bought a Yamaha 5C: vast improvement over the stock mouthpiece.
Good video and advice Nigel. The Yamaha 4C is definitely the best mpc for a beginner. I'd say 5C for a tenor though - even a beginner needs a little more tip opening on tenor. I use a Theo Wanne New York Bros 2 (for jazz/pop/house) and Selmer S90 (classical) on alto and a Jody Jazz HR* on Tenor. That said, I think it's right to point out that the more advanced you get, the less important the mouthpiece is (as you say). I can get pretty much any sound I want out of the S90 with voicing and embouchure adjustments; the Wanne just gives me more projection.
Cheers Mark, great selection of mouthpieces you have there.
Hi Nigel, the biggest improvement you've made is putting the notes just below the video. Fantastic improvement!
Seems hard to get the d and e out on this mouthpiece with 2.5 reed on alto. I have to blow hard and get out of breath. Should I use a lower size reed? Like 1.5? Or is it most likely me?
I am definitely going to switch to this mouth piece because I am still playing on the same 3 year old crappy vandoren mouth piece I got with my sax.Thanks for making this video.
I JUST GOT A YAMAHA 4C AND LOV THANKS
A brilliant mp that I was told to buy very early on to replace the mp that came with my Alto. All student Sax should be supplied with this mp to help you get going.
Thanks for this, Nigel... it is very useful. I have been playing with an unbranded plastic mouthpiece that came with my Julius Keilwerth ST90 tenor when I bought it second-hand. I don't know if there is anything wrong with it, but if I can have something to blame for my poor playing, I would be glad to pass the buck! The Yamaha Tenor 4C sells here in Canada for only $33.99 CAD, which works out to less than 20 UK pounds... I guess I will treat myself this Christmas to a new mouthpiece and hope this would help my learning in Sax School. Thanks again!
I play a Meyer 7MM for lead alto big bands, combo work, Bebop jazz, and even Rock and Roll wedding gigs. The Yamaha 4C body shape is a copy of a Meyer with slightly different inner chamber, more clarinet like, where as the Meyer is a New York round chamber with hollowed out sidewalls.
The Yamaha 4C has a small tip, perfect for beginners, .063", my Meyer 7MM is a .081" tip opening.
For a professional, in order to use a tip that small, .063", you would need a somewhat harder reed. a 3.5 or a 4. Most beginners embouchure are not developed yet and they would play on a soft reed like a 2. The combination of a small tip and soft reed give that junior high beginner somewhat out of tune tone, that we all remember from 50 years ago.
I give my students a Meyer 5MM when they get to the 1 and a 1/2 year time frame.
i use a yanagisawa metal for soprano though
That 23 looks Boss!
Cheers!
My Sakkusu tenor came with a Yamaha 4c, definitely a good one to start with! Sax and mouthpiece, I've been impressed with both. No problems with it and could play it from day one. After about five months I got an Otto Link Tone Edge 6 which was a lot different and took a little getting used to, but after a few months on that I'm quite comfortable with it and really loving it.
For alto I use a metal berg larsen 95/2 sms with a 4 Boston sax shop reed then for bari I use an Otto link stm 7* with a 3 1/2 Boston sax shop reed.
The old Bergs (London) were a beautiful piece. I blow a 55-year-old on my Mk VI tenor.
Something seems to me that a friend would play great even on a roll of toilet paper👍 great sound Nigel.
Yamaha 4C and 5C (alto and tenor) are great starter pieces, but after 6 to 12 months of serious study,
I personally feel that upgrading to more appropriate mouthpieces (depending on style) should be investigated. Although those Yamaha mpcs are great easy players, other possibilities need to be investigated. I play jazz, and I would have never realized my best scenario is more open step baffle pieces with softer reeds, although if and when I really need to get some fat in the lowest notes, with more warmth than my embouchure can provide, I will use a minimum rollover baffle piece that’s not quite so open. It all depends on what I’m ultimately trying to convey tonally. As far as ligatures are concerned, as long as it holds the reed correctly and securely in place and allows it to vibrate, while not making it difficult for you to place it there, the reed is much more important. It has to cooperate with your embouchure and the mouthpiece. If you’re worried about the tone the reed will provide, investigate french file cut versus not. You can also move a reed up a tenth of a millimeter or two if the reed is slightly soft. You have some room the other way too if it’s slightly stiff and the tip rail is thick enough.
My YAS-21 (which I got for free!) came with an Encore C* mouthpiece. It is a plastic mouthpiece but I love it. It is certainly better than the generic music store mouthpiece that came with my first alto I bought used.
I am thinking about another mouthpiece since I keep one horn at home and one at the office. What I’d really like is one that is easiest to play (and also to play softly for at home). I think maybe with a soft reed. I do like Rico 2.5 but even easier to play softly would be better.
Ten years ago ago I came back from a holiday in Canada and visited Sax.co.uk for a laugh to blow a cheap sax. Tried nine, surprised at the quality and bought an Elkhart II. Worked on the mpiece supplied to open it up, went too far and ruined it. Bought a 4c. Great sound. Got used to it got a 6c. Dropped it cleaning it and needed another for a gig that day. Got a 7c - a lot bigger sound. Traded up to a Beechler Bellite 8. Definitely not for a beginner - a wild beast! The Yamahas give a big bang for your bucks. Top notch for the price - I felt like I was stealing from them. LoL.
PS found the Fibracell synths worked well with them and any lig.
I actually have that mouthpiece, I got it when I bought my first Alto and it's great! The guy at my local music store must know his mouthpieces. I got a Theo Wanne mouthpiece months ago to have a more bright high pitched sound, and I wasn't really that good with it. It's definitely a professional mouthpiece so it's something to work towards so right now I'm practicing with my Yamaha mouthpiece to improve my play. But my mouth's healing at the moment so I've been playing piano.
I have many mouthpieces including the Yamaha which I do like, but I always go back to the Selmer C* . For alto it's about 150 dollars. So I think it's the next step up to the Yamaha.
Upgraded to Rousseau 5 R and Rousseau JDX 6 mouthpieces.
I use a Claude Lakey 4.3 with a plastic cover Rico Royal Reed, so as u can see, I have a very soft bite,you described the 4/C as smooth, does that mean low volume, the music I play is with about 50 other players using alto, tenor, Baritone and Bass saxes.
Hey Nigel, great to see you recommend a Yamaha mouthpiece as a beginning upgrade. A couple of months ago I upgraded to the Yamaha Tenor 5C. From the generic one that came with the Cecilio Mendini Tenor. Always went with Vandoren reeds but month prior switched over to a Legere 2.0. Straight away I noticed it felt an ease and more rounded tone of the notes. Great low cost easy upgrade. Cheers to you and fellow SaxSchool peeps!
Thank you so much! This helps a LOT. I am about to sign up for sax school because you have helped me a lot throughout my sax journey
I'm a beginner and I play an old Brilhart Ebolin
On alto my first upgrade was to an Otto Link Tone Edge 7, which I am happy with. I have a Yamaha 4C soprano mouthpiece, in hope of someday getting a soprano sax (hoping the 4C will help me get a "nasal" oboe-like tone.)
I have an otto link Tonedge 8 but I struggle to get the high F# with it on my tenor, but I can hit fine with the Yamaha 4C
would agree that the Yamaha 4c is one of the best starting mouthpieces out there another worth a mention is the Rico b4/b5, it also a great starting mouthpiece and cheaper than the Yamaha, so maybe cost important when starting out....
And Rico C3 😀
As a beginner of three months I found that a Yamaha alto 4c with a Legere American Cut 1.5 works best for me.
You said it was 40 bucks i got it for 14...and yeh it the right one...thanx mate
I bought a cheap one on Amazon and I think it’s hindering me more than anything. Gonna go get one of these Yamaha 4C.
( never played sax or any instrument like it until I won a $500 sax on a auction for $60!)
Keeping it real 👍🎷🎷 I played on a 7c for years even practiced mouthpiece modification and repair on it.
Nice one Ian.
I started out with a Yamaha 4C which came with my first tenor sax, a YTS-275. That mpc was great for me as a learner, you're completely right about this.
After some years I wanted to advance my sound and tried several mouthpieces and ended up with a Otto Link Super Tone Master 7 (metal). But I had some difficulties with it, so (after another few years) I tried again some mpcs and ended up with a Vandoren V16 M7. Sounded the same as the Otto Link (for me), but was easier to control.
Since then I never stopped to try out new mpcs. My current one is a Jody Jazz Jet 7* (hard rubber). I was overwhelmed how "free blowing" this one is. And the sound is even more what I want it to be.
I guess though that I will try more moutpieces in the future, since there is ALWAYS room for improvement... :)
I mainly play with the YAM 4C that I bought with my refurbished Buescher. But it came also with a (old) Buffet Crampon mp with a C or G on it. Compared to the YAM 4C it has a huge tip opening and needs lots of air.
Great video Nigel, the 4c’s a workforce of a MP. I use a Vandoren Java T45.
just recently upgraded ( downgraded ) from a Vandoren Paris TL5 Optimum to a Yamaha 4C since no 5C on stock, and I must admit it seems to play easier.
You should review the new Dickerson Resonator Ligature for saxophone on Reverb & ebay - it's very unique
Im playing on a 4C and i think it likes stronger reeds. Currently using a traditional 1.5.
Cool. 1.5 is a good starting point but always best to work towards a 2 or 2.5 reed if possible.
McGill is THE best place for sax learners and players. No comparison!
I play a carlton mouthpiece on a bundy 2 tenor in band class im thinking on buying my own mouthpiece
Thanks for the advise, have sent away for a tenor and alto 4c
Cheers Richard
My Jupiter tenor came with a Yamaha 4c. I didn't like the tone too much. I bought a Rico C5. I much prefer the bright sound of the small chamber.
Cool, that's another good choice Pete.
yamaha 5 C suits me fine, will hope to upgrade to a meyer 5 or 6 in a few months
Good plan John.
I bought a second hand Hanson tenor sax and started with a Jody Jazz HR* 7*, using a La Voz medium/soft reed. I have to admit, it’s a struggle !
What bit do you struggle with Doug? Send us a message and I’m sure the Sax School team can help : support@mcgillmusic.com
First thing I did was get the Yamaha 4C.
Nice video, have you ever thought about doing a review of the Yamaha CM (Custom series)? I cant seem to find any info about them on YT.
Yamaha 5c
Ok, that’s a good choice.
played on a 4c for 3 years before i upgraded to a vandoren optimum
Cool!
I received a used ~20 year old YAS 23 two years ago that came with some weird brand of mouthpiece I literally can find zero information about to this day. It's got a tip opening of about a Yamaha 6C and came with two unused Rico 4 reeds... Yeah I went out immediately and got a Yamah 4C and some 2.5 Rico orange box reeds.
The only upgrade I've made since is switching to Rico Royal reeds. I picked up a Vandoren V16 jazz mouthpiece about a year ago, but honestly I waffle between it and the 4C because I can't get the volume I want on the Vandoren (That's a me problem, not the mouthpiece! I need to practice more 👍)
Great to hear the 4C is working for you Autumn Willow!
I play Yamaha 4C with 1.5 or 2 Rico plastic tipped reed
Cool, that's a good setup to start with.
What reeds do you play on usually?
I had a 4C with my used tenor saxophone. I was having trouble getting all clear notes so I bought a Select Jazz 7M and a Legere American cut. I can't get much out of the Select, I don't know what I'm doing wrong, so I went back to 4C
and the American cut. I get on really well with this. Unfortunately I dropped the mouthpiece on a hard floor and chipped it and damaged the reed. I've been playing a year now and still can't get on with the Select so I am going to buy a new 4C and American cut. Will I ever get used to the Jazz/ I play an hour a day every day.
I bought a Mendini by Cecilio alto sax for my 8yr old son. It came with a generic looking 4 tip opening mouth piece and a box of 2.5 cecilio reeds. These together were next to impossible for us to use. I got a yamaha 4C with the softest rico reeds guitar center had which were Rico 2.0 strength reeds and a new ligature for the new mouthpiece as well. With this setup were doing much better. I feel like especially once the octave key is depressed that there feels like significant resistance to air flow. I'll take a big breath and play forte through several measures and have to breath not because I'm out of breath but because I just need to breath. Is this normal to feel for a beginner? I feel like I'm having to push almost like playing a trumpet but not quite that pronounced. Maybe it's just an embouchure issue and lacking endurance there. Or maybe I should try some 1.5 strength reeds. I was thinking maybe I need a bigger tip opening to let more air pass. What I really need is to keep playing for a minimum of an hr each day. I start with my tuner and concert B flat scale on long tones for 10 min were warmed up (both the horn and myself). Then I start working on essential elements alto book #1. I'm still learning all the fingerings and trying to memorize those so I can read ahead and anticipate the next few notes. It's slow going but hopefully will pay off. I'm going to go and try a bunch of different mouthpieces for a few days a week until I decide what to get next. I'm hoping to join our community band here in Corpus Christi TX.
I should mention that I'm a tuba player. I expected it take more effort on the sax but I think I'm doing something that's exacerbating the issue.
Yahama 4C
I have Yanagisawa T5 and Otto Link Tone Edge 7* with low baffle (darker sound) and copy of Otto Link Slant Signature 7* with high baffle (brighter). I play mostly Vandoren Java red cut 2,5.
Except this I have Yamaha 5C which is very easy to play but I don't use it.
As I started to play saxophone 2 years ago I have had alto with Yanagisawa 6 rubber mouthpiece. It was difficult to play, embouchure must be too firm. Now I have bad habits, I am overtuned due to heavy press on the reed and older reeds often squeezes.
I have a Yani and the 4c suits it really well
I bought 2nd hand Jupiter Alto that came with Yamaha 6C and Jupiter 4C. I mainly play with Yamaha 6C. Seems better sounding than Jupiter 4C.
As I know only difference of 6C to Yamaha 4C is tip opening. Nigel, how do You think, is there big difference between Yamaha 4C and 6C for beginner?
Great video! Thanks!
I have been playing for 8 months. I bought a YAS 23, and quickly upgraded from the generic mouthpiece, which was in the case, to a 4C.
A couple of weeks ago, i bought a gorgeous YAS 62, purple logo. I'm in love. =D
I also bought a Meyer 5M mouthpiece. I love the bright sound, but i do have squeaking and chirping issues here and there. I want it to work. Is it too early for the Meyer? Too ambitious?
Also, i have the Rovner Versa, as well as the Van Doren Optimum, both of which are great.
I own an original Dolnet BelAir tenor mouthpiece. Who knows what it compares to in terms of quality and sound ?
I Use a otto link 7* Nigel
My tenor mouthpiece is Hermes USA, never seen any information about these anywhere. It’s a plastic, flat baffle medium chamber fairly open. I’ve had to run the facing off on a surface plate with wet and dry paper to get it nice and flat and it plays quite nicely, although I’ve never used anything else so I don’t know if I need to upgrade and that’s my problem.
On my bari I’ve got an Esprit Bari, plastic stepped baffle medium chamber. Again I’ve never seen these anywhere but I’m looking at a Jody Jazz HR* 7 hard rubber one for that because the baffle is more a small rollover and the one I have is very severe looking. I’ve watched a number of discussions on the differences between the baffle types and I think this JJ one will be a bit more versatile in regards to music style and situation.
What sort of baffle and chamber does the Yamaha have?
The one that i got at school is the one i play with
Hi I have been playing 4-5 months now. I have a Buescher Elkhartind mouthpiece. After seeing this i purchased the 4c and found it very difficult. The sound was very airy and tonguing was difficult. I found I have to blow much harder. Any thoughts on where I may be going wrong here. Thanks Nigel
Hi, i started to learn sax (Tenor Jupiter 789-787) , one month ago. I have Got selmer goldentone 3 tenor sax mouthpiece, but is diffucult for me to play. Should I change to Yamaha 4C or 5c ?thanks ;)
Hi Nigel. I love these videos and considering joining sax school, but would like to get to know my sax better, first. I am a beginner have been viewing many videos on youtube. I have just bought a new Buffet Crampon Paris alto. I immediately upgraded the mouth piece to Yamaha 4C. while I am practicing scales I frequently get squeaks. I have checked myself and I'm sure I am not holding any other keys down. what could be wrong. Embouchure, mouthpiece, reed position again I go to lengths and take time lining these up etc.?
I play a Meyer 6 chamber
Cool.
Can you use the same mouthpiece for alto and tenor sax
Yamaha 23 ? Tell me more .old models. 10 .? 15 ? 20 ???? I see 18 are the early versions....?
Ne crois-tu pas que cette embouchure peut être jouée depuis le joueur amateur jusqu'au joueur professionnel ? Le bas prix n'y change absolument rien , si ce n'est pour les snobs de toutes catégories ! A mon humble avis , Nigel , cette embouchure est vraiment une des meilleures pour TOUS LES SAXONAUTES , petits joueurs débutants jusqu'aux vieux ténordistes qui ont traîné leurs tuyaux un peu partout dans le monde..............Et la 5 c me semble encore meilleure , toujours à ce prix digne d'un vieux Chinois sans le sou , hahahaha !!! Bonne journée......et fais gaffe au Covid !!!!!
I play on a 5c Yamaha but sometimes find restricted blowing ? what should I do, I have only been playing for 8 months
i play alto sax for a year now and planning to upgrade my mouthpiece should i bought 5c or 6c size?
I'm a beginner on an Earlham alto. The mouthpiece is a Bill Lewington classic. I'm using Van Doren reeds at the moment.
the sound seems to be ok but then i'm untrained. Shall i stick with this combo until a little more experienced?
I also started on an old Earlham alto and quickly switching to a 4c Yamaha mp made a huge difference to me being able to learn.
Hi there from argentina!!!! Should i buy this or and 5c? i'm a beginner, i like jazz music!
4c
Hello, What is the 4C stand for? Thanks
wow, i saw u sent a message on my gmail! i was like woooow Nigal sent me a gmail!!! by the way Nigal i am not a beginner.
i couldnt tell the difference btween both, ive no idea what my mouth peice is came with sax.
Do you have any recommendations for what mouthpiece sounds the closest to the old NY Meyer?
What’s the next upgrade for 4C and 5C mouthpiece you would recommend?
Great question. You have a few options depending on the sound you are going for. The Jody Jazz HR* is a good one to consider.
Hi I bought a 4c Yamaha, it is loose on the cork where the one with the sax from a chap that play it in a band fits well , do they all have a different fit and I need re cork for each.
Thanks great help , but iv hit a small problem.
What's the difference between the yamaha 4c and 4c customs mouthpiece?
Good question Chris. I think the Custom is made from Hard Rubber (vs plastic for the standard 4C). Some design enhancements too.