Selmer S80 Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece (C* Facing) Review

Once a young student has played for a year or two and is developing, many band directors want the students to upgrade their mouthpiece. Music stores will provide a decent mouthpiece on starter instruments, but after a year, the student and the band needs more consistent sound and intonation than that provided on typical student mouthpieces.

Enter the Selmer S80 C* mouthpiece.

Sound is generated on a reed instrument by applying a stream of air supplied by a player against the resistence of the mouthpiece and instrument. Harder reeds and a more open mouthpiece (distance at the end between the tip of the reed and the mouthpiece) tend to increase resistance and, therefore, are harder to play. Softer reeds and a more closed mouthpiece, such as the C* temnd to reduce resistance and make the instrument easier to play.

This mouthpiece has a reputation for consistent sound and intonation across all registers of the instrument. Of course, good intonation is also based on the player and the instrument. However, a good mouthpiece can help, and the C* will work well on most beginning and intermediate model instruments. Some band directors specify that the entire saxophone section in their upper bands use these mouthpieces, in order to improve consistency of sound and intonation.

I do suggest that mouthpiece questions be referred to a professional player, whether a private teacher, band director or reputable local music store. The professional can help the student identify the optimal reed and mouthpiece for the student and can provide exercises to improve sound.

While this mouthpiece can be pricey, some directors negotiate price resuctions with stores, particularly if the director is requiring use of this mouthpiece.

This mouthpiece is a good choice for the developing alto saxophone student.