Is it hard to play alto sax?

What Happens To My Lips When I Play Alto Sax?

• Whenever I Play my alto sax my lips hurt because I keep biting in to it hard. I just want to know what's going to happen to my lips if I keep playing like this,

• Answer:

  Um... don't bite it then. But seriously, only your bottom lip should have "teeth" contacting it. The upper teeth should be touching the mouthpiece. You should not be putting enough pressure on the bottom lip to cut it or do damage. Eventually, your embouchure (muscles in the mouth that controll your sound) will strenghen to the point that you won't feel any discomfort or "pain." Of course, check with a music teacher to make sure you are not doing anything seriously wrong, but its good you are interested enough in playing your sax to post here! The links below should help you learn more about sax embouchure to help make sure you aren't doing anything wrong. I have taught band instruments for many years, and have seen a few sax players in my time... none have ever bitten through their lips! Have fun, and keep playing!