Leaving your saxophone out on a stand is a convenient way to keep it accessible for practice sessions and performances. However, many saxophone beginners wonder if it is safe to leave their instrument out, or if it is better to keep it stored in a case.
And there are definitely some pros and cons to consider when you leave a saxophone out on a stand. This is one of those Saxophone FAQs that I often get when I teach my saxophone students so let's dig in and let me explain.
The purpose of a saxophone stand
Saxophone stands are designed to hold your instrument securely and protect it from damage. Leaving your saxophone out on a stand can be a great way to ensure that it is always within reach and ready to play.
However, there are some potential risks to leaving your saxophone out on a stand, such as the accidental bumps or falls.
I personally keep my saxophone on the stand during the day and have it placed in the corner of my office. That way it cannot fall over or get bumped into.
I also use the saxophone stand when I play gigs and are alternating between Flute and Alto-, Soprano and Tenor saxophone asexposure to dust and other environmental factors that can damage the instrument over time. Additionally, leaving your saxophone out on a stand may make it more vulnerable to accidental bumps or falls.
If you are considering leaving your saxophone out on a stand, I would recommend that you weigh the benefits and risks carefully.
As you still need to clean the saxophone after playing, it's not a big deal to store the saxophone in the case instead.
The main benefit, in my opinion, is that it's more accessable if you keep it on the sax stand and that can be important too.
Understanding the Saxophone and Its Vulnerabilities
As a saxophone player of more than 35 years I've experienced the best and worst sides of the saxophone.
It's a beautiful and delicate woodwind instrument that requires proper care and maintenance. So is leaving it out on a stand going to damage the saxophone?
No, leaving it on a sax stand will not be the main reason your saxophone get damaged. However, unless you are careful of how you place the actual stand and the saxophone in the stand it could become a problem.
The saxophone has som vulnerable parts and if you accidently bend or break any of the keys or key mechanics you are in a whole world of trouble.
In fact, I just recently had a small “accident” with my alto saxophone where the low C key got bent causing the saxophone not to play the low C, B and B♭ notes at all.
Over the years I've learned how to maintain my saxophones and I'm able to do most saxophone maintenance myself, like fixing a sticky pad and adjusting the octave mechanics on the saxophone.
Still, I will most often bring my saxophone to a saxophone technician to have it fixed by a pro. That's what I recommend you do as well if you find your saxophone acting strange after keeping it on the sax stand.
Another weak point of the saxophone is the neck, and any damage to it can affect the instrument's sound quality and intonation.
Leaving a saxophone out on a stand can also expose it to dust and other particles that can damage the instrument's finish and cause corrosion.
Even though less likely, it could become an issue over time.
The big issue with having your saxophone on a stand over a long period of time is that the cork will dry out. That will cause your embouchure to suffer as leaking air makes it harder to get a great saxophone sound.
So, best practice, keeping the sax on a stand or in a case, is to always keep the saxophone clean by swabbing the mouthpiece, neck, and inside of the saxophone after each practice session to prevent buildup of moisture.
Proper care and maintenance are essential to keep your saxophone in good condition. Regular cleaning, swabbing, and storage in a case can help prevent any damage from occurring.
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How Stands Protect Your Saxophone
Saxophone stands are a great alternative to storing your saxophone in its case. Leaving your saxophone on its stand can help protect it from damage caused by frequent assembly and disassembly. It also makes it easier to pick up and play your instrument whenever you feel like it.
Saxophone stands come in different styles and sizes, but they all serve the same purpose of holding your instrument securely in place. Some stands have a tripod base for stability, while others have a single post that can be adjusted for height. Regardless of the style, a good saxophone stand should have a padded surface to prevent scratches and a sturdy base to prevent tipping over.
One of the benefits of using a saxophone stand is that it can help protect your saxophone from damage caused by improper storage. When you store your saxophone in its case, it is exposed to changes in temperature and humidity that can cause the pads to stick or the cork to dry out. Leaving your saxophone on its stand allows it to breathe and acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity, reducing the risk of damage.
Another benefit of using a saxophone stand is that it can help prevent accidental damage. When you store your saxophone in its case, you run the risk of accidentally dropping it or knocking it over. Leaving your saxophone on its stand reduces the risk of accidental damage and makes it easier to pick up and play your instrument whenever you feel like it.
Considerations When Choosing a Saxophone Stand
When choosing a saxophone stand, there are several factors to consider to ensure that your saxophone is protected and safe. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Stability: Ensure that the stand is stable and won't easily tip over, especially if you have pets or young children in the house.
- Material: Consider the material of the stand. Metal stands are generally more durable and long-lasting than plastic ones.
- Height: Make sure the stand is the right height for your saxophone. If it's too tall or too short, it may not provide adequate support for your instrument.
- Portability: If you plan on taking your saxophone to gigs or rehearsals, consider a stand that is lightweight and easy to transport.
- Compatibility: Check that the stand is compatible with your saxophone model. Most stands are designed specifically for alto, tenor, or baritone saxophones. Some are combi stands which means they work for both Alto- and Tenor saxophones, but you need to doublecheck before you buy a sax stand.
Care and Maintenance of the Saxophone
Taking good care of your saxophone is essential to ensure that it lasts for a long time and remains in good playing condition. Proper care and maintenance involve cleaning and swabbing the instrument after every use, protecting it from moisture and dust, and keeping it in a safe place when not in use.
One of the most important things to keep in mind when caring for your saxophone is to clean it regularly. This involves using a soft cloth to wipe down the exterior of the instrument, as well as swabbing the inside of the saxophone with a cleaning swab. Make sure to remove all excess moisture and saliva from the instrument, as these can cause damage over time.
It's also important to protect your saxophone from moisture and dust. Always store your instrument in a dry and cool place, and avoid leaving it out on a stand for extended periods of time. If you do need to leave your saxophone out, consider using a pad saver to absorb excess moisture and protect the pads from damage.
Regular maintenance is also essential to keep your saxophone in good playing condition. This may involve replacing the pads, adjusting the keys, or repairing any damage to the instrument. If you're unsure about how to perform these tasks, it's always best to consult with a professional saxophone technician.
By following these tips for care and maintenance, you can help ensure that your saxophone remains in great playing condition for years to come.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to leave a saxophone on a stand for an extended period of time?
Yes, it is generally safe to leave a saxophone on a stand for an extended period of time, as long as the environment is safe and free from potential hazards such as children or pets.
What are the risks of leaving a saxophone on a stand?
Leaving a saxophone on a stand can expose it to potential hazards such as accidental knocks or falls, exposure to sunlight, and changes in temperature and humidity. These factors can cause damage to the instrument key pads and cork seal on the sax neck over time, which in turn affect your sax sound and the playability of your sax.
How long can a saxophone safely be left on a stand?
There is no set time limit for leaving a saxophone on a stand. However, I recommend that you still clean your saxophone after practice to maintain it
What is the best way to store a saxophone?
The best way to store a saxophone is in a hard case. It will protect your sax from dents and even if the saxophone case falls over it will be protected. This will provide the best protection against potential hazards such as knocks, falls, and changes in temperature and humidity.
Should a saxophone be disassembled when not in use?
It is not necessary to disassemble a saxophone when not in use, but I still recommended that you clean out the sax after every practice session and also remove the reed from the mouthpiece and store it in the reed guard with your other reeds to keep it playable for next time.
Can leaving a saxophone on a stand damage it over time?
Leaving a saxophone on a stand can potentially damage it over time if it is exposed to hazards such as knocks, falls, and changes in temperature and humidity. However, in my experience leaving it on a stand in a safe place does not cause any damage to a saxophone.
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