Whether you’re a seasoned musician looking to try something new, or you’re wanting to help a child acquire a new skill, the saxophone makes an excellent choice. It’s one of the easiest woodwind instruments to master, in regards to achieving the right tone. But when you’re trying any new instrument, rental can be a really useful first step. It allows you to get a feel for the instrument without a significant financial investment. And if you’re looking for a child, it’s a great way of measuring both their commitment and your tolerance levels!
So, what do you need to know about renting a saxophone?
Rent from Home Saxophone Rental Guide
What do you need to know about saxophones?
Made up for four separate pieces – the mouthpiece, neck, body and bell – the saxophone is made from brass, but is classified as a woodwind instrument. Depending on the type, saxophones have between 20 and 23 openings, controlled by padded keys. To make a sound with a saxophone, you blow through the mouthpiece, where a reed vibrates. You press the keys to control where your breath travels to, and this determines the tone that is produced by your saxophone.
What sax do you want to play?
The first decision you need to make is which saxophone you want to learn to play. There are fourteen different types of saxophone, ranging in timbre from the very high-pitched sopranino to the bass. But the three most commonly chosen for learners – and school bands – are the alto, the soprano and the tenor. With a compact key layout and the need for a little less air to hit the right notes, the alto is the most popular choice for younger learners.
How to rent a saxophone
Once you’ve decided on the type of instrument you want, simply head over to the Rent From Home order pages and we’ll talk you through the process – you can order over the phone too, if you prefer. Delivery is free and we can send your instrument to the address of your choice – work, home, neighbour. Or you can pick it up from one of our 400 music store partners across the country, if that’s easier for you.
Returns and exchanges
At Rent From Home, there are no fixed-term contracts. So, you can keep your rental saxophone for as long as you need to. Or, if it’s not for you, just let us know and we’ll help you to send it back – or exchange it for a different instrument. Even if you’ve only had it for a week.
Rent to own
Alternatively, if you find you really love the instrument, we can also help you to exchange your rental agreement for a purchase agreement. Our aim is to give you as much flexibility as possible, so you can enjoy your instrument as much as possible.
Maintenance and repairs
Every instrument rental provider will have their own policy when it comes to maintenance and repairs. At Rent From Home, all of our rental agreements include our Loss Damage Waiver Plus Maintenance Program (LDW). This means that if something happens to your instrument – even if it’s broken beyond repair – you have no need to worry about additional bills. Simply contact us, and we’ll talk you through the next steps for getting your instrument repaired or replaced.
How to care for your saxophone
Of course, not all maintenance needs to be carried out by a professional. And if you want your saxophone to sound its best, you will need to take care of it with basic cleaning and a little common sense! These are our top tips for getting the best from your instrument.
· Always handle your saxophone with care, using both hands to lift and carry it. Never pick it up by the mouthpiece or neck alone.
· Clean your saxophone after each use. Using a clean, non-abrasive cloth, wipe down the bell inside and out. Do not be tempted to use any cleaning products as they can damage the pads.
· When necessary, apply key oil to prevent the keys from sticking, cork grease to protect the tenon cork in the neck of your instrument, and use antibacterial swabs and a mouthpiece brush to keep the mouthpiece as clean as possible.
· When you’re not using your saxophone, keep it in its case. This is the best way to ensure that no accidents happen to it.
And that’s all you need to know!
So, are you ready to begin your saxophone rental journey? Get started today!
