No other instrument has such a versatile tone!
Nathan often gets complimented on his saxophone tone, with people mentioning his lyrical playing style as being reminiscent of the great Stan Getz when in a jazz context. Yet also having power and edge when playing in a pop setting.
The saxophone is arguably the most chameleon like of all instruments. Its tone makes it perfect for glorious classical melodies, cool jazz improvisations, and funky pop solos! The saxophone can really inspire anyone’s music making and fit all musical tastes.
Nathan has worked on his saxophone tone for years resulting in the instrument and equipment choices shown below, and you can watch numerous videos of Nathan performing live in a jazz, latin and pop context throughout this site taken from his music agency’s YouTube Channel.
Nathan’s Saxophones & Set-Up – Get the tone!
Alto Saxophone
Selmer MK VI (c. 1969) – Bronze
Mouthpieces
Jazz/Pop: Drake NY Jazz with a Vandoren Optimum ligature
Classical: Selmer Paris Claude Delangle with a Vandoren Optimum ligature
Reeds
Jazz/Pop: D’Addario Jazz Select 3H (unfiled)
Classical: Vandoren Java (Green Box) 3 1/2
Tenor Saxophone
Selmer MK VI (c. 1969) – Silver Plated
Mouthpieces
Jazz/Pop: Les Becs d’Autan “Florida” with a Francois Louis Ultimate ligature
Classical: Selmer Soloist (copy) with a Francois Louis Ultimate ligature
Reeds
Jazz/Pop: D’Addario Jazz Select 3H (unfiled)
Classical: Vandoren Traditional 4
Not sure about your reeds? Think you might need a better mouthpiece? Lost when it comes to ligatures?
The saxophone can have a truly unique and beautiful sound, but with so many options to choose from it can be a minefield to select the set up right for you.
If you have any queries about how to get the best out of your saxophone tone, drop Nathan a line and he’ll be happy to help!