Saxophone Accessories

Common saxophone accessories include reeds, a mouthpiece and ligature, a neck strap or harness, and a cleaning swab. Many players also use a reed case, mouthpiece cap, and cork grease to help maintain their setup.

A neck strap supports the weight of the saxophone and helps maintain proper playing position. For larger instruments like tenor or baritone sax, some players prefer a harness to distribute the weight more comfortably.

Reed lifespan varies depending on playing frequency and care. Many players rotate several reeds at once, replacing them when they lose responsiveness or tone quality.

Cork grease lubricates the neck cork so the mouthpiece slides on smoothly without damaging the cork. Only a small amount is needed occasionally. No cork grease is needed for metal tenons.

Ligatures primarily secure the reed to the mouthpiece, but different materials and designs can subtly influence response, articulation, and feel of the reed on the mouthpiece.

After playing, use a swab to remove moisture from the body and neck. Wiping the exterior with a soft cloth also helps protect the finish.

A mouthpiece cap protects the reed and mouthpiece tip from damage when the instrument is not being played.