Playing Your First Note
One of the most important aspects of playing any instrument is the ability to produce a strong, even tone. On the saxophone, this largely depends on the position of the mouth and lips, the amount of pressure used, and the way the air is directed through the instrument. The mouth and lip position is known as the embouchure.
To form the basic embouchure for saxophone playing, place the tip of the mouthpiece about one centimeter into your mouth, rest your top teeth against the top of the mouthpiece and bring your bottom lip up against the mouthpiece. You are now ready to play a note. Place your fingers in position for a G note and blow a steady stream of air into the saxophone until the note sounds.
Be patient if you cannot make the note sound clearly and evenly at first. Experiment with the pressure from your jaw until you find the right amount to make the note sound correctly. Do not use excessive pressure, and try to let your breath out evenly. As your lips and facial muscles develop, making a good sound will become easier and easier.
Side view of embouchure
