Introduction
The aim of the course is to provide the player with the knowledge and skill needed
to carry out regular basic maintenance and repair of their instrument. You will also
see how more in-depth repairs are done – this will hopefully give you an insight into
what you can and can’t achieve yourself at home.
Of course your instrument should still be taken in for regular servicing according to
the maker’s instructions (normally once a year) as this involves a lot more than can
be taught on this course.
Venue and practical things
The venue is The Art of Wonder, High Street, Ryde (opposite Iceland). There are
toilets (including disability-friendly facilities) and plenty of parking nearby (the
courses are on Sundays from 10am to 4pm).
Please bring your own instrument and an apron (things may get a bit messy)! All
other necessary tools and materials will be provided.
Tea and coffee will be available during breaks and for lunch there are lots of
eateries nearby, such as French Franks, Crepe Lovers and plenty more. Or you are
welcome to eat your own packed lunch on site.
I will do my best to address any specific techniques you may want to discuss,
alongside the (fairly intensive) course content - but please don’t expect major
repairs to be done on the course.
You are welcome to video the demonstrations – there will be lots of them!
Course content
10:00-11:00 Introductions; The saxophone and its parts; How it works; Care of
your instrument; Tools and materials.
11:00-11:45 Break
11:45-12:30 Adjusting the octave mechanism; regulating the upper stack.
12:30-13:30 LUNCH
13:30-14:15 Regulating the lower stack: the G# adjustment; the table; the
long B flat.
14:15-14:45 Replacing the neck cork
14:45-15:00 Break
15:00-15:45 Replacing pads (demonstration).
15:30-16:00 Questions; When to stop and use a professional repairer;
demonstrating professional tools.