Saxophone players- how can I help DS improve the tone of his playing?

[Rainbowshit]

It's all a bit harsh at the moment. What would you recommend to help?

What does teacher say?

He get his lessons through school so I don't have any contact with the teacher.

Write a note to the teacher asking if a softer reed is needed.

Hi, my DC's play Double reeds so a bit different but on most wind instruments, playing long notes, scales, studies all using a tuner and a metronome are all ways to improve. Using the correct diaphragm support too and not clamping down on the reed will help.

To be honest, a good sound will come naturally in time with plenty of practice - your DS will get to know how much pressure to apply on the Reed - it takes time
( lots and lots of practice).

If he is only getting lessons at school, is it from a dedicated Saxophone player?
If its not - his sound won't change - if he's not practicing every night for at least 30mins at the early stage it won't get any better.

Certainly with woodwind trying a long note "overblowing" and then another "underblowing" and then finding something in the middle can help at the start of a practise. Does he listen to much sax music? That can help to hear the tone he's aiming for.

What sort of reed is he playing on at the moment? If he's a beginner a strength 1.5, or possibly a 2 depending on his age is what he needs, and the best brands are either Rico or Vandoren. The latter are pricier so best to move onto those once he has passed the phase of breaking them regularly at the start. Whilst tone is something that comes with time, a good reed can definitely help. So if he has been playing the same reed for a long time, or if it's broken/dirty/cracked that will directly impact the sound. If he's puffing his cheeks out try to encourage him not to let air get into them too. Hope that helps a bit!