Assembling the saxophone is a fairly simple task. However, there can be damage done to the instrument if it's done improperly. This section will teach you how to coach your child to quick success. Before opening the case, make sure it is facing up so that the sax doesn't tumble out!

The first step is to moisten the reed which can be done in a small cup of water (a film canister also works nicely) or in your mouth while you assemble the rest of the horn. Next put the neckstrap on. Now you are ready to put the saxophone on the neckstrap by the hook in the back. Be careful to pick up the sax by the bell where there are no keys that can be damaged. After this put the neck on the body of the saxophone facing the back, gently wiggle it on if necessary, and tighten the neck screw. When doing this it is important not to press too hard on any of the keys or the octave key mechanism on the neck because the saxophone can easily be damaged. After this is done you should put the mouthpiece on the cork of the neck. If at anytime you have to force this, apply a small amount of cork grease to your finger and massage it into the cork, wiping away any excess.

Once you put the mouthpiece on the cork it's time to put on the reed. Line the moistened reed up with the flat lay of the mouthpiece, making sure that it's even on the sides. Next, make sure that the front edge of the reed is in-line with the tip of the mouthpiece when you press the tip of the reed against the mouthpiece (press gently!). It should not over- or under-hang as this will cause the instrument to not make a proper sound! Once the reed is lined-up slide the ligature over, making sure the wider end goes on first, then slide it down to the section of the reed that is shiny and not shaven. Finger tighten the ligature, being careful that it is not too tight.

Parts of the Sax