Best
Overall Beginner Tenor Saxophone
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Overall: Has a yellow brass body for producing a versatile tone
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Best Feature: A robust and reliable tenor saxophone
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TedScore™: 8.5/10
Best
Budget Beginner Tenor Saxophone
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Overall: With a redesigned brace to keep the weight down
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Best Feature: Made of yellow brass to produce a versatile tone
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TedScore™: 7/10
Best
Tenor Saxophone Accessory
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Overall: Has an auto-grab system which protects your instrument and keeps it secure
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Best Feature: Built with an adjustable backrest
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TedScore™: 9/10
Picking out a great tenor saxophone for beginners might seem like cracking a tough code. Let’s explore the options for anyone looking, whether you’re pinching pennies or ready to spend just a bit more.
Imagine the excitement of having a sax that meets your needs and makes you happy to play every day. The Trevor James “The Horn” is an excellent choice that will last beyond your beginner stage, while the Elkhart 100TS offers a fantastic option for those on a budget.
In this article, we’ll look at these great choices and other fantastic saxophones. Ready to find out which instrument is perfect for you?
Keep reading, and let’s discover your musical partner!
The 7 Best Tenor Saxophones for Beginners
Elkhart 100TS Student Tenor Saxophone
The Elkhart 100TS is popular among schools and music teachers for its robust construction, good-quality finish, and professional tenor saxophone features like the high F# key and blue steel needle springs.
One of the best budget tenor saxophone brands, its gold lacquered instrument is beautifully hand engraved and has a full range, making it an excellent value for beginner students who still want a high-quality instrument.
Elkhart 100TS Student Tenor Saxophone
DESIGNED FOR: With a redesigned brace to keep the weight down
COMES WITH: Made of yellow brass to produce a versatile tone
OTHER: All the keys have been rib mounted
Elkhart 100TS Student Tenor Saxophone
- Comes in a number of bright and exciting colours
- Includes lightweight case with backpack straps and mouthpiece
- Lower-priced saxophones can often need repairing more often than expensive models
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Stagg TS215S Tenor Saxophone
This is made from yellow brass, just like professional saxophones, and it’s perfect for producing a round, warm tone. The body, bell, and neck are brass, making it a sturdy and reliable instrument.
The tenor sax for beginners is versatile and can be played in various music genres, from classical to jazz. With the Stagg WS-TS215 Series Tenor Sax, you can expect great sound and smooth action.
Stagg TS215S Tenor Saxophone
DESIGNED FOR: Made of yellow brass for producing a pleasing tone
COMES WITH: With leather pads to ensure good note production
OTHER: Has an adjustable thumb rest to guarantee a comfortable fit
Stagg TS215S Tenor Saxophone
- Includes everything you need to look after your sax
- Perfect for all genres of music
- The tuning may be hard to control, unlike the more expensive models
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Trevor James 'The Horn' Tenor Saxophone
This saxophone is a great choice for new players who want to learn the saxophone but don’t want to spend a ton of money. The original ‘Horn’ concept was to make a distinctive, reasonably priced student saxophone without compromising quality, and that’s exactly what you get with this saxophone.
The saxophone’s construction features neatly attached pillars and fittings, setting it apart from competitors in terms of reliability and durability.
It’s built using the same quality design and manufacturing process as other Trevor James saxophones, so you know you’re getting a reliable and durable instrument.
When I had to chance to play ‘The Horn,’ there’s always a responsive and resonant feel, givign a dynamic and expressive performance that sets it apart from other models in its class.
Trevor James 'The Horn' Tenor Saxophone, Gold Lacquer
DESIGNED FOR: beginners and students
COMES WITH: With rib-mounted keys for added strength to the keywork and improved resonance
OTHER: A robust and reliable tenor saxophone
Trevor James 'The Horn' Tenor Saxophone, Gold Lacquer
- Checked by UK technicians to ensure perfection
- Includes a sturdy case, mouthpiece, and ligature
- The saxophone's finish may not be as good as on more expensive tenor saxophones
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Jean Paul USA TS-400
This saxophone has been making waves in music recently thanks to its superior tone and affordable price point. When you purchase the TS-400, you’ll get everything you need to get started. And with power-forged and tapered pivot keys, this saxophone is incredibly easy to play.
Plus, it looks great too! Whether you’re a student or want to add to your collection, the Jean Paul TS-400 tenor saxophone is an excellent choice.
Jean Paul USA TS-400
DESIGNED FOR: beginner and intermediate tenor saxophone players
COMES WITH: Has a beautiful yellow brass body construction with a Lacquer finish
OTHER: Offers a superior tone with even key action and placement to help learning musicians
Jean Paul USA TS-400
- With a strong bell brace for durability and tapered pivot keys for ease of use
- Includes Rico reeds, cork grease, gloves, cleaning cloth, swabs, and mouthpiece
- Comes with robust contoured carrying case for ease of use in transportation
- Slightly pricier compared to other brands
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Jupiter JTS500 Tenor Saxophone
This Jupiter tenor saxophone has been crafted with the student player in mind, and students and teachers rave about its quality. The sax comes with a mouthpiece and ligature and is keyed to a high F#, making it perfect for a tenor nsaxophone beginner player or someone already playing the alto. It’s a fantastic value for a well-made sax, robust and easily produces good sound.
Jupiter JTS500 Tenor Saxophone Outfit with Styled Gig Bag Case
DESIGNED FOR: Produces a full tone with high-quality brass and attractive gold lacquer
FEATURES: With stainless steel springs for maximum precision
OTHER INFO: Includes adjustable bumper felts
Jupiter JTS500 Tenor Saxophone Outfit with Styled Gig Bag Case
- Allows easy intonation and precision
- Maintainance-friendly and easy carry
- Provides comfort with the included case's backpack straps
- Higher price range compared to other brands
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha YTS280 Student Tenor Saxophone
This Yamaha tenor saxophone is specifically designed with beginners like you in mind, meaning that it’s lightweight, ergonomically shaped, and has an adjustable thumb rest to make playing more comfortable for you.
Plus, it offers a vibrant and rich tone perfect for beginners who want to achieve a characteristically bright saxophone sound.
Yamaha YTS280 Student Tenor Saxophone
DESIGNED FOR: Beautiful look and rich tone with a gold lacquer finish
FEATURES: With an enhanced B-C# connector, lightweight feel, and adjustable thumb hook
OTHER INFO: Easier response from lower notes with the improved, stronger B-C# mechanism
Yamaha YTS280 Student Tenor Saxophone
- Yamaha quality creates one of the best tenor saxophones for students
- Yamaha also produces the YTS-62III, considered to be the best professional tenor saxophone
- All set with the included case and a high-quality 4C mouthpiece
- Quite expensive beginner tenor sax (but worth it!)
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Conn TS650 Tenor Saxophone
This saxophone is made of high-quality materials, such as a brass body and gold lacquered finish, giving it a beautiful and durable design. The ergonomically designed keys make it easy to play, and the Italian Pisoni pads ensure a great sound.
The Conn TS650 is designed to take you to a Grade 5 level and beyond, so it will definitely grow with you as you improve your skills.
Conn TS650 Tenor Saxophone
DESIGNED FOR: students and beginners
FEATURES: Has a post-to-body construction which offers a light-playing experience
OTHER INFO: With Pisoni pads to ensure an excellent seal and response time
Conn TS650 Tenor Saxophone
- Produces rich and warm tone
- With high-quality construction and an affordable price tag
- Includes quality case and mouthpiece
- Can be quite heavy for younger students and smaller players
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Why Choose a Tenor Sax?
For starters, the larger size of the tenor produces a deeper and more mellow sound than the alto saxophone. Its pitch range from Ab2 to E5 makes it versatile enough for most musical genres.
Additionally, while the tenor may be slightly heavier and require larger hands and more air to play, it’s worth it for the richer tone it produces. Whether you’re playing jazz, rock, R&B, or classical music, the tenor sax can hold its own and elevate your performances to new heights.
What Should I Look For In A Tenor Sax?
It’s important to invest in a good-quality instrument that will provide the best sound and fit the needs of the performer. When choosing a tenor saxophone for a beginner, you need to consider several factors. Let’s go through them one by one.
Sound Quality
As a beginner or student, you may not need all the fancy features that come with an expensive lovely instrument. What you really need is a great musical instrument that produces a clear and high-quality sound.
That’s where investing in a good quality tenor saxophone comes in handy.
With a well-crafted saxophone, you can produce beautiful music that’s both satisfying to your ears and pleasing to your listeners.
Playability
Playability should be at the top of your priority list. After all, the sound quality and overall experience of playing a beginner instrument depend heavily on its ability to feel comfortable and easy to play. A good tenor saxophone should have smooth key action, responsive pads, and a well-crafted mouthpiece, allowing you to perform precisely and easily.
Durability
A well-made saxophone built to handle the rigours of constant playing is crucial if you want to make the most of your investment. Look for quality materials like lacquered brass and sturdy floor pegs, as these will ensure that your best student saxophone stays in good condition for years to come.
Warranty and After-Sales Service
A good warranty will cover any manufacturing defects or faults, so you can have peace of mind when playing. After-sales service is equally important. You want to be able to contact the manufacturer or supplier in case you need any repairs or maintenance done on the instrument. Efficient after-sales service can save you time, effort, and money.
Good Brand
A good brand can definitely lend you assurances of quality, but it cannot guarantee that an instrument will be the right one for your particular style and preferences. Ultimately, what feels and sounds good to you will matter most. So, while you may want to pay attention to good brands, make sure you make the final call on which tenor saxophone you buy.
5 Practice Tips for Beginner Tenor Saxophonists
If you’re just learning how to play tenor saxophone, welcome to an exciting and rewarding musical adventure! To help you make the most of your practice time and progress steadily, try out these five tips:
Tip 1
Warm up thoroughly. Before playing songs or exercises, spend a few minutes warming up your body and instrument. Take deep breaths and exhale slowly, feeling your belly and ribs expand and contract. Play long tones on each note of the range of the saxophone, focusing on producing a clear and full sound. This will help you develop your tone and prevent strain or injury.
Tip 2
Focus on fundamentals. While it can be tempting to skip right to playing flashy solos or complicated melodies, having a solid foundation in the basics is crucial. This will help you improve your finger dexterity, intonation, and overall control of the saxophone. A tenor sax fingering chart is also an essential tool, providing a visual guide to the various fingerings required to produce different notes and scales.
Tip 3
Listen and learn from others. One of the best ways to develop your musical ear and style is to listen to recordings of other saxophonists. Try to emulate the tone and phrasing of your favourite players, and pay attention to their use of dynamics, articulation, and rhythm. You can also take lessons from a teacher or attend workshops and clinics to get feedback and guidance on your playing.
Tip 4
Practice with a metronome or play with backing tracks or bands to improve your sense of rhythm and timing. You can find many free or affordable resources online, from simple drum loops to full jazz music. This will also help you develop your ability to play in different styles and genres.
Tip 5
Enjoy the process, and have fun! Don’t get discouraged if you make mistakes or hit a plateau. Keep a positive attitude and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Becoming a skilled tenor saxophonist is a lifelong adventure of discovery and creativity.
Bonus:
5 Essential Trumpet Accessories for Tenor Sax
1. Tenor Sax Reeds
The reed is responsible for determining your instrument’s emission, response, and sound retention. When you use a high-quality reed, you’ll immediately notice an improvement in your playing because it helps you adapt to your saxophone’s level and orientation. Not only that, but a good reed is also necessary for producing the right tone and articulation.
Royal by D'Addario Tenor Saxophone Reeds, 1.5 (3 Pack)
DESIGNED FOR: beginner and intermediate players, advancing student players
FEATURES: Made from canes grown specifically using D'Addario's advanced techniques
OTHER INFO: Offers excellent consistency when changing between reeds
Royal by D'Addario Tenor Saxophone Reeds, 1.5 (3 Pack)
- With thin profiles for easy and comfortable playing
- Each reed is individually wrapped to retain its freshness
- Durable and reliable reeds
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
2. Saxophone Stand
A good saxophone stand is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around. It should have adjustable height settings to ensure you can play your saxophone comfortably and ergonomically. The material of the saxophone stand is also a critical factor in determining its durability and longevity.
Hercules DS630BB Alto/Tenor Saxophone Stand With Bag
DESIGNED FOR: alto and tenor saxophones
FEATURES: Has an auto-grab system which protects your instrument and keeps it secure
OTHER INFO: With a grab system, activated by the instrument's weight for securing the sax in place
Hercules DS630BB Alto/Tenor Saxophone Stand With Bag
- Built with an adjustable backrest
- Has innovative designs combined with excellent saxophone manufacturing techniques
- Comes complete with a convenient bag for storage and transportation
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
3. Mouthpiece Cushions
One of the best ways to protect teeth and improve comfort is to use mouthpiece cushions. Ensure you adjust the embouchure for the best tone. Remember to hold the tenor saxophone with your left hand on top and right hand on the bottom before playing.
BG mouthpiece patches
DESIGNED FOR: Rubber patch to stick on your mouthpiece
FEATURES: These patches will stick to your mouthpiece to protect it from marks or indentations from your teeth.
OTHER INFO: They also stop the vibrations from the saxophone buzzing against your teeth.
BG mouthpiece patches
- Easy to attach and remove
- They might seem expensive for what they are, but they will protect your instrument in the longterm
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
4. Saxophone Case
Investing in a high-quality saxophone case is absolutely essential! It will protect your instrument from scratches, dings and other wear and tear. Whether you’re a tenor sax beginner or a seasoned pro, the right case will provide unrivalled crush protection, shock absorbance and temperature control, ensuring your saxophone stays in perfect condition for years to come.
BAM 4002S Softpack Tenor Saxophone Case, Black
DESIGNED FOR: travelling tenor saxophonists
FEATURES: With a 3-part protective shell assembly
OTHER INFO: Has high resilience foam supports the instrument on its strongest parts
BAM 4002S Softpack Tenor Saxophone Case, Black
- Comes with a hidden accessory compartment
- Designed to absorb shocks and impacts to ensure high levels of protection
- Includes 1 neoprene shoulder strap with security screw hook
- Quite pricey compared to other cases (but offers great value!)
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
5. Saxophone Strap
A strap with proper support and padding will take the weight of your instrument off your neck, saving you from neck and back pain. Plus, it helps with posture and overall comfort while playing. A good saxophone strap should also feel secure and safe, holding your instrument in place without the risk of it falling off.
Vandoren VSS203 Alto and Tenor Saxophone Strap
DESIGNED FOR: alto and tenor saxophone players
FEATURES: With a wide neck strap for evenly distributed weight
OTHER INFO: Made of lightweight and comfortable polypropylene material
Vandoren VSS203 Alto and Tenor Saxophone Strap
- Offers a playing experience with maximum comfort
- Adjustable and durable
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Tenor Saxophone For Beginners
Summary
To sum it up, choosing the right tenor saxophone can be pretty overwhelming, especially for beginners.
These options are fantastic for absolute beginners to start saxophone playing. They provide solid build quality, reliable performance, and great sound.
Remember, the right tenor sax is a personal choice that can set the foundation for a rewarding musical journey. Take your time to choose what resonates with you, both in feel and sound.
Happy playing! May your tenor sax bring you endless joy and musical fulfillment.
