Daughter (who has played clarinet for almost 4 years) has been playing alto sax for about 2 weeks and has had one lesson. The next is not until the middle of next week. She sounded horrible at first (!) but it's getting gradually better except for the constant buzzy sound which is a bit distracting for her and anyone within earshot.... I'm not sure where the notes she's playing come in terms of the sax's complete range but probably this is less of an issue the higher the notes she's attempting.

She's currently using a Vandoren no 2 reed, which she finds comfortable. She tried a 2.5 but found it really hard work. A 1.5 was no better soundwise. In case it's relevant she uses a Vandoren no 3 on clarinet.

Does she just need to keep experimenting with different reeds, or are there any other possible causes?

I think there's a good chance she's doing what I'm always, always tempted to do on sax : play it like a clarinet. The embouchure is much more circular and relaxed than it is for clarinet, and a lot of breath support is needed. I'd check these first, before seeing if the reed is the guilty party

Hi,

The reed would be the first thing i'd check, but possibly check whether the buzzing is coming from a specific area of the sax? I know on clarinet, sometimes there can be a buzzing that is caused by a pad skin becoming loose, and ends up with a kazoo like noise as the air vibrates it! However sax pads are made of a different material so doubt this may be the case!

You said 'buzzing' but if it's more of a fizzy rattly sound, it could simply be that there is lingering moisture in the mouthpiece. try giving it a mop out with a cotton hankie.

Sorry if this advice doesn't help.

Good luck with it all!