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Alto Sax to Violin? Help please!?
Hi, I'm a highschooler that plays the alto sax in band and jazz ensemble. I'd say I'm about intermediate and I want to continue playing it. However, I've always loved the violin. Very recently, I haven't been able to shake that desire, and I'd love to start lessons. I'm well aware of how difficult it can be to start getting a nice tone and etcetera, but it's something I'd really love to do. My questions are:
1) Will it affect my alto sax playing? (I'm still going to continue the sax, and violin isn't offered at my school so I can't learn the violin there.)
2) How much should a decent used one cost? (4/4 and I've gotten a bit of money from birthday, etc. saved up.)
3) Any advice what-so-ever?
Thank you!
3 Answers
- norcekriLv 71 decade agoFavorite Answer
If anything, the second perspective on music will actually *help* your sax playing. you'll see many interpretations from a different perspective, and you'll find the violin's advantages start to creep into your sax work.
The cost varies widely. Check on line for general prices ranges, and then hit your local instrument stores to see what's available. Choose an instrument that makes you feel comfortable. For instance, I didn't get the best alto sax on the market; I got a used one I could afford, and gave me decent noise. A few years ago, I got a *good* soprano, and I can make that baby *sing* (I started on clarinet).lr
- 1 decade ago
Well I'm a saxophonist myself. When I switched from Alto to Tenor it affected my playing because of the embouchure changes, so I had to learnt to change my embouchure for the tenor. But since a violin doesn't require the use of the mouth it shouldn't affect your Alto playing.
However, learning anew instrument, especially one from a different family, will affect your playing a bit. But so long as you maintain regular Alto practice alongside regular violin practice it should be absolutely fine.
Cheap instruments sound rubbish, expensive ones do not. I guess a mid range violin will set you back a couple of hundred at least. But if you want a good quality instrument for a low price, go for second hand. I can't afford a full price tenor so I advertised for 1. Result= great instrument, cheap price. Ask around at music shops and string instrument repairers. leaving adverts in the window will be a great way. Someone out there will have 1 they are trying to sell, (normally someone with a bratty kid who got a top end instrument then gave it up after a week).
All I can say really is that it's best to shop around and grab a bargain that buy a new, cheap one right away. Although it would be advisable to buy a new bow.
Good luck :D
Source(s): I play two saxes and flute so I know about switching around :D - Anonymous1 decade ago
Go after your dreams, my boy, even it seems to be impossible, soon or later you gonna learn both instruments. Dont be afraid of nothing, you have all time by you side, since you have a musical brain, it will be easy for you.