How modern technology transformed synthetic reeds and why I now recommend them to my students

For most of my career, like many saxophonists, I was a cane reed player. I grew up going through boxes of reeds, searching for “the one,” adjusting them, breaking them in, and dealing with the natural inconsistency that comes with cane. That process is almost a rite of passage, but it can also be frustrating.

My first experience with alternatives came through plastic-coated reeds like Rico Plasticover. They were more durable, especially for outdoor performances, but musically they still felt like a compromise. They solved one problem, but not all of them.

The real turning point came out of necessity. As a baritone saxophonist, I was constantly dealing with the higher cost of reeds, how quickly they wore out, and how inconsistent they could be from one to the next. It became difficult to justify the time and expense, especially when reliability was so important in performance. That’s when I began seriously working with synthetic reeds from companies like Legere and BARI. At first, the decision was purely practical. I needed something dependable. Over time, that practicality turned into preference.

What started on baritone gradually expanded to tenor and eventually to alto saxophone. As I continued performing and teaching, I began to appreciate something that goes beyond tone alone, and that is consistency. Being able to pick up the instrument and know how it will respond every single day is something that has real value, especially for students who are still developing their fundamentals.

Synthetic reeds have been around since the mid-twentieth century, but early versions never gained widespread acceptance. They were often too stiff, limited in tone, and unresponsive. For many years, they carried the reputation of being a backup option rather than a serious tool for professional musicians.

What has changed is the level of science and engineering behind them. Modern companies such as Legere, Fiberreed, and Forestone have invested years into refining their designs. This is not simply a matter of manufacturing a piece of plastic. It involves engineering materials that can mimic the grain structure of cane, carefully controlling flexibility and stiffness, and going through extensive cycles of trial and error with input from real musicians. These reeds are the result of a long process that combines experimentation, acoustics, and material science.

Today, there are several strong options available, each with its own feel and response. In my own playing and in my teaching, I have found that the specific setup matters more than the brand itself. The combination of mouthpiece and reed, along with choosing the right strength, is what ultimately determines how a player responds. For beginners, keeping things simple and predictable is usually the best approach.

For a long time, synthetic reeds carried a stigma. They were often viewed as inferior to cane, associated mainly with beginners, or seen as a shortcut rather than a legitimate choice. That perception has been changing. More and more professional players are using synthetic reeds in live performance, on tour, and in demanding environments where consistency matters. The reason is straightforward. They offer reliability, stability, and predictability, all of which are critical in real-world situations.

As a teacher, my goal is to remove unnecessary obstacles so students can focus on making music. One of the biggest challenges beginners face is not a lack of ability, but the difficulty of working with equipment that is inconsistent or unresponsive. When a reed does not respond easily, when the sound is unstable, or when there is too much resistance, it slows progress and affects motivation. This is one of the main reasons I often recommend synthetic reeds, especially in the early stages. They allow students to produce sound more easily, build confidence, and focus on developing their technique and musicality.

My own journey with synthetic reeds began as a practical solution, but over time it led to a deeper appreciation of how technology can support musicianship. Cane reeds still have their place, and I continue to respect that tradition. At the same time, synthetic reeds have evolved into a serious, reliable, and musically valid option for both students and professionals. In today’s environment, having tools that promote consistency and steady progress is not just convenient, it is essential.

Nestor Zurita.
 

When we hear the name “saxophone,” most of us think of jazz clubs, soulful solos, and iconic figures like John Coltrane or Charlie Parker. But behind this beloved instrument lies the extraordinary—and often overlooked—story of its inventor: Adolphe Sax.
Born in 1814 in Dinant, Belgium, Sax was more than just a craftsman. He was a bold innovator who dared to reshape the soundscape of his time. The son of a musical instrument maker, he grew up surrounded by brass and woodwind instruments, but it wasn’t enough for him to follow in his father’s footsteps—he wanted to forge his own path. And he did.

In the 1840s, Sax unveiled his invention: the saxophone—a hybrid of brass and woodwind, designed to project power and flexibility. His invention was revolutionary, but his life was anything but easy. He faced lawsuits, jealousy from competitors, and crushing financial ruin. He even survived multiple near-death accidents. Despite it all, Sax never stopped pursuing his vision of a better instrument.

And yet, today, his story is rarely told.

In an age of digital everything—virtual instruments, AI-generated music, and disposable consumer goods—Adolphe Sax may seem like a relic. His painstaking dedication to acoustics and craftsmanship can feel distant in a world moving at lightning speed. Most saxophonists don’t know his biography, and even fewer reflect on the fierce resistance he faced just to bring one instrument to life.

But that’s exactly why his story matters.

Sax’s life is a reminder that true innovation often comes with struggle. He wasn’t designing for trends or likes—he was solving sonic problems, crafting something he believed the world needed. He challenged the status quo, trusted his ear, and embraced risk. For modern-day instrument makers, engineers, and creators of all kinds, his legacy is a powerful message: Stay obsessed with your craft. Be brave enough to be different. And don’t let the noise drown your vision.

In a time when everything is rapidly replaced and forgotten, Adolphe Sax’s saxophone still sings—across genres, generations, and geographies. That’s not just a testament to a brilliant design; it’s proof that one person’s dream, even if ignored in their own time, can echo for centuries.

In today’s fast-paced and academically demanding world, high school students face increasing pressure to excel. While sports and technology often take center stage, learning a musical instrument—like the saxophone—offers profound benefits that are too often overlooked. Science shows that music education can shape a more successful, balanced, and fulfilled student.

1. Cognitive Boost: Strengthening the Brain

Research in neuroscience shows that playing a musical instrument enhances brain function in ways few other activities can. A study by Dr. Nina Kraus at Northwestern University found that music training improves memory, attention, and verbal skills in adolescents. The saxophone, with its intricate fingerings, breath control, and reading of musical notation, engages multiple brain regions simultaneously—boosting executive function and working memory.

Key Fact: According to a study published in Frontiers in Psychology (2014), students who engage in instrumental music training perform better in standardized testing, particularly in math and language.

2. Emotional Expression and Stress Relief

High school is often a time of emotional turbulence. Music offers a powerful outlet. The act of playing the saxophone allows students to express emotions that words may not fully capture. The rich, expressive tone of the saxophone is especially effective for conveying moods—whether it’s the melancholy of a ballad or the energy of a jazz solo.

Key Insight: A 2020 study in Psychology of Music found that adolescents who play musical instruments reported lower levels of anxiety and higher emotional resilience compared to peers who did not.

3.Discipline, Focus, and Patience

Learning the saxophone requires consistent practice, attention to detail, and long-term commitment—skills directly transferable to academics and future careers. Students must manage their time, set goals, and work steadily toward improvement. This structured learning builds self-discipline and cultivates patience.

Scientific Support: The University of Vermont tracked 232 brain scans of children aged 6 to 18 and found that music training led to more development in areas of the brain related to planning, organization, and emotional regulation (Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 2014).

4. Social and Collaborative Skills

Saxophonists often play in bands, jazz ensembles, or orchestras—contexts that require collaboration and communication. These environments teach students how to listen actively, support their peers, and develop leadership qualities. Performing in front of others also builds confidence and public speaking skills.

5. Cultural Awareness and Identity

The saxophone is deeply embedded in various musical traditions, from jazz and classical to Latin and pop. Exploring these genres introduces students to different cultures and perspectives, promoting open-mindedness and a richer sense of identity. It can also connect them to history, society, and the arts in meaningful ways.

Final Thoughts

High school is a critical time for personal development, and learning the saxophone is far more than a hobby—it’s an investment in cognitive growth, emotional health, discipline, and social engagement. Supported by scientific research, music education is a transformative tool that empowers students to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Introduction
Children with ADD often face challenges with focus, impulse control, and maintaining consistent effort. But music—especially learning an instrument like the saxophone—can offer them a unique path forward. Through sound, breath, and creativity, music provides structure, expression, and a sense of accomplishment.

In my years of teaching, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative this journey can be. This article shares some insights and personal strategies I use when working with young saxophonists who learn differently.

Understanding ADD in the Music Lesson
Children with ADD often display:

• Short attention spans
• Difficulty with multi-step instructions
• Sensitivity to sensory overload
• A strong response to structured, hands-on, and engaging activities

Instead of fighting these traits, I try to work with them—adapting my lessons to meet the student where they are.

Why the Saxophone?
The saxophone is a wonderfully tactile and expressive instrument. For kids with ADD, it offers:

• Physical engagement – breath control and finger motion help anchor focus.
• Instant auditory feedback – they can hear progress right away, which motivates them.
• Creative freedom – improvisation and tone shaping encourage personal expression.

It’s not just about learning music—it’s about building confidence, self-regulation, and joy.

Instructional Strategies for Saxophone Teachers
 

1. Structured, Short Lessons Keep Attention Sharp
I break lessons into 5–10 minute segments and switch activities often.
A typical session might look like this:

• Play a short melody
• Do a rhythm or ear-training game
• Read a bit of music
• Improvise or create a variation
  Then cycle back and reinforce earlier material.

This variety keeps kids engaged while still offering structure. I also use listening tools that isolate instrument layers—helping students “solve the puzzle” of how music is built.

“When lessons are well-paced and hands-on, the child stays present and curious. That’s when the magic happens.”

2. Use Visuals and Simple, Clear Instructions

Kids with ADD often respond better to what they can see and touch.

I use:

• Color-coded notes
• Fingering charts
• Highlighted sheet music
• Visual metaphors (like “going up a scale is like climbing stairs”)
• Descriptions like “bright” (major) and “dark” (minor) for sound

I limit verbal instructions to one or two steps at a time and often separate complex ideas—like rhythm and notes—before putting them together.

“Breaking it down avoids overwhelm. Simplicity builds confidence.”

3. Routine Builds Comfort

Predictability is powerful. Every lesson starts with something familiar—like a warm-up scale or favorite tune.

We might:

• Play and finger along together
• Use a tuner so they can see pitch
• Follow a metronome with a light, not just a click

“These little routines help kids settle in and feel grounded.”

4. Celebrate Every Win

Praise is essential—and it has to be specific and immediate.

Some examples:

• “Great job keeping a steady tone!”
• “You played that whole line without stopping—that’s progress.”
• “Let’s celebrate! You just played your first full song.”

Even small achievements deserve recognition. They fuel motivation.

“When kids feel seen and proud, they want to keep going.”

5. Movement Enhances Focus

Some kids need to move. That’s okay!

Let them:

• Stand instead of sit
• Walk or sway gently
• Clap or tap out rhythms

“Movement isn’t a distraction—it’s a learning tool.”

6. Make Space for Creativity

Improvising and creating music gives students ownership.

We might:

• Trade short melodies in a call-and-response game
• Create a 2- or 3-note motif
• Name a new piece they’ve invented

“When it’s their idea, they care more—and they remember better.”

7. Keep the Environment Calm

I adjust the studio space to reduce distractions:

• Curtains drawn if outside movement is distracting
• Quiet surroundings
• Sometimes even noise-canceling headphones

When attention drifts, I gently bring them back—no judgment.

“A calm space leads to a calm mind. No scolding, just support.”

8. Engage Parents as Partners

A child’s success depends in part on what happens at home. I communicate with parents regularly and encourage:

• Short, daily practice (5–10 minutes)
• No pressure—just enjoyment
• Simple goals and weekly check-ins

“Habits take time. Patience and praise go a long way.”

Common Challenges—and How to Support Your Child

1. Inconsistent Practice

Kids with ADD may avoid or forget to practice.

Try:

• A short checklist
• A fun practice journal with short video or audio clips

2. Boredom with Repetition

Repetition can frustrate or bore them.

Reframe it:

• Call it a “level-up challenge”
• “Play this three times in a row without mistakes to reach the next level!”

3. Impulsivity

They might skip steps like posture or tone.

Help them pause:

• Use “stop-and-check” reminders
• Create pause cards to encourage self-monitoring

The Emotional Power of Music

Music gives children with ADD more than just notes to play—it gives them:

• A voice
• A sense of structure
• A way to regulate emotions
• A reason to feel proud

Studies show that music can reduce anxiety and improve executive functioning. But for me, the most powerful proof is in the smile of a student who says, “I did it!”

Conclusion

Teaching the saxophone to children with ADD isn’t about fixing them—it’s about meeting them where they are and helping them discover their voice through music. With patience, creativity, and heart, we can give these young musicians the tools they need to thrive—not just as players, but as people.

I began teaching adult students more than 30 years ago through private lessons. From the start, I realized that teaching adults requires a different set of skills and approaches compared to teaching children. Adult students come with their own unique set of learning tools. They generally know exactly what they want and often have clear goals in mind.

One of the biggest differences I’ve observed in teaching adults versus children is that kids often just play the music and have fun, while adults want to understand it more deeply. They tend to explore the theory behind the music and how different elements come together. When working with adults, I think of myself as a musical consultant. I ask many questions to learn how they think, how they reason, and, of course, how they learn best.

A common challenge adult students face is overcoming biases related to their age. Many students tell me they feel too old to pursue certain musical goals. I believe this stems from the reality that time becomes scarce when balancing work and family responsibilities.

In my quest to become a better teacher and to help my adult students, I’ve been researching various studies on music and its impact on the brain. What I’ve discovered has been both revealing and reassuring. It has reinforced ideas I’ve held for many years: we need to build a society of thinkers, people who dedicate themselves to the improvement of the mind, and music is the key that can open doors far beyond simple entertainment.

When an adult is learning to play an instrument, they must engage their full attention on the task at hand. Playing music leaves no room for distractions. The student’s brain is involved in multiple tasks simultaneously—from reading music to coordinating their hands, breathing, and memory, all while interpreting the music. Music forces the individual to be fully present.

Learning to play a musical instrument also offers a peaceful retreat from the pressures of daily life.

This was one of the first phrases I came across in my research, supporting the importance of learning music as an adult. Although simple, anyone with a busy lifestyle can recognize just how vital this is. Every time I teach adults, I can physically see the change in their expressions as the lesson progresses. I see them relax. Music is an intense intellectual activity that requires the student to be fully immersed. As their attention focuses on the music, all other worries fade into the background. It brings them into the present moment. By the end of the class, I often see them relaxed and happy.

In today’s world of overachievement and pressure, my students deeply appreciate a time dedicated exclusively to them.

Learning music as an adult can also provide significant physiological stress relief. It has been shown to lower cortisol levels, which in turn reduces heart rate and blood pressure. It improves mental health and brings relief to the mind. Some therapeutic outcomes of playing music include improved communication skills, enhanced emotional expression, and reduced anxiety and agitation. Musical training promotes cognitive function, supports mental health, and helps individuals connect with both themselves and others.

When a student learns to play music, they develop an acute sense of listening. A music student becomes sensitive to changes in tone and rhythm, enabling them to analyze and interpret information with greater accuracy. As a result, they are also able to hear nuances in speech that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. Many adult students have told me that their ability to listen and understand others in their work environment has improved significantly.

Playing an instrument activates both sides of the brain, increasing the neural pathways between them. It helps keep the brain sharp, boosts cognitive health, and reduces memory loss and cognitive decline. Playing music reduces stress, enhances memory and creativity, improves coordination, fosters social skills, and creates a sense of accomplishment. It is a fun and effective way to stimulate the brain and improve overall well-being.

Adult students who take lessons often experience a decrease in psychological distress, depression, and fatigue. They report improved self-esteem and fewer feelings of isolation. Additionally, playing music provides a temporary escape from the stresses of daily life.

In older adults, playing an instrument can have a positive impact on well-being throughout life by promoting empowerment, autonomy, and social cohesion.

A healthy lifestyle requires attention to both mental and physical well-being. Learning to play a musical instrument is a workout for the brain like no other. The positive effects of learning a musical instrument throughout a person’s life can have a profound impact on both their mental and physical well-being.

Learning to Play a Musical Instrument in Middle School

As a music teacher, I’ve had the privilege of instructing students as young as three and as old as ninety-six. Among these age groups, teaching students between nine and fourteen has proven to be both the most challenging and rewarding. At this pivotal stage in their development, a good music teacher can truly change a child’s life. We must view music not merely as entertainment, but as a vital tool for enhancing and strengthening a child’s development during and after middle school.

In recent months, I have explored numerous medical studies related to music education for this age group, which have reinforced my long-held beliefs. I have witnessed students transform from struggling learners into confident achievers. Research indicates that learning a musical instrument equips children with problem-solving skills in ways that other forms of education cannot match.

Children, particularly those with ADD and ADHD, often find that music lessons improve their focus by teaching them to set aside distractions while learning. When children learn to play an instrument, they engage multiple areas of the brain simultaneously, providing a unique mental workout that few other activities can match.

Middle school is a critical period when various mental processes develop, yet it is often challenging for kids to maintain focus. A well-structured music lesson plan helps them to discern and refine their thinking skills and enhances their problem-solving abilities. The skills they acquire—such as reading music, memorizing, composing, and improvising—translate into positive academic results, ultimately fostering the self-confidence necessary to navigate the world around them.

Cognitive Abilities and Learning to Play a Musical Instrument

Cognitive ability encompasses the mental skills that enable individuals to think, learn, reason, and solve problems effectively. This intricate web of capabilities allows us to process information, adapt to new situations, and derive meaning from our experiences. Music training, in all its forms, positively impacts behavior in both childhood and later life, playing a crucial role in cognitive and behavioral maturation during the transition from childhood to adulthood.

Recent studies focusing on middle school students have revealed a stronger correlation between cognitive abilities and music lessons compared to other leisure activities. Students who engage in music lessons twice a week exhibit greater increases in IQ and improvements in mental competence. Research consistently shows that music education enhances an individual’s ability to think, learn, reason, and solve problems.

Music training involves both implicit memory, which is the unconscious acquisition and use of skills (like practicing scales and arpeggios), and long-term memory, where knowledge is retained indefinitely (as when learning a song). Mastery of an instrument requires reliance on past memory while simultaneously engaging with the present environment and planning for the future progression of a piece.

There is a notable positive correlation between music training and information processing speed in both visual and auditory domains. When playing in an ensemble, musicians must quickly adapt to changes in tempo and pitch, requiring intense focus and concentration. In jazz, for instance, students learn to respond in real-time to the ideas presented by their peers, a task that demands both attention and the ability to filter out distractions.

Children who receive music training show enhanced visuospatial abilities, learning to translate musical symbols into motor actions while monitoring the sounds produced by their instruments. This skill aids in organizing visual information and supports language processing, verbal memory, and reading abilities. Learning to play an instrument as a child not only improves academic performance but can also elevate IQ in adulthood.

Music lessons foster goal-oriented behavior and help individuals manage their attention, control impulses, and focus amidst distractions. They teach children how to generate ideas from given information and manipulate these ideas in memory, enabling engagement in complex cognitive tasks and adaptability to changing circumstances. Additionally, music training enhances fluency, flexibility, and the ability to shift between tasks, further improving cognitive function.

Working Memory (WM)

Working memory refers to a cognitive system that maintains and processes information simultaneously. The development of working memory during adolescence is closely linked to brain changes. These rapid changes can create an imbalance between cognitive control and socio-emotional systems, making adolescents more prone to risky behaviors. At this critical stage, self-control is essential, and music learning plays a significant role in fostering this skill. The ability to intentionally suppress or regulate reactions that conflict with one’s goals is a hallmark of effective self-regulation. Music training requires the retention, processing, and integration of complex pitches and rhythms, suggesting a clear connection between music training and the mechanisms involved in working memory.

When playing an instrument, working memory integrates sound events, retrieves information from memory, associates sounds with meaning, and helps develop emotional responses. Musicians often show higher brain activation in working memory networks during musical tasks than non-musicians, which may explain why they perform better on cognitive tests that assess working memory.

Auditory working memory involves recalling sounds for short periods when those sounds are no longer present. The term “musical working memory” specifically refers to the temporary storage and manipulation of musical inputs, such as notations or sounds, which is crucial for completing musical tasks. Research has found a strong relationship between auditory working memory and musical sophistication, including skills like improvisation, pitch recognition, rhythm awareness, musical comprehension, and communication.

Additionally, a particular connection exists between music training and visuospatial sequence learning. Musicians may develop enhanced visuospatial abilities due to their extensive training, which involves encoding and recognizing visuo-temporal patterns while reading scores and coordinating movements. This enhanced sensorimotor connection also contributes to better performance on visual memory tests.

Fluid Intelligence

Fluid intelligence is the ability to think abstractly, solve problems, and reason logically in novel situations without relying on prior knowledge. It is often utilized when learning new concepts. Music serves as a powerful tool for developing fluid intelligence, as much of the cognitive processing occurs internally. Both fluid intelligence and working memory are crucial for healthy development, enabling individuals to tackle new challenges without previous experience. Fluid intelligence is also closely associated with logical problem-solving and social adaptability.

The benefits of music training on neural and behavioral development are substantial. Previous studies indicate that extracurricular music training enhances mental processes that support concentration, planning, and problem-solving.

Executive Function

Executive function encompasses a set of skills that enable individuals to plan ahead, meet goals, exercise self-control, follow multi-step directions, and maintain focus despite distractions. Music provides a fun and engaging way for children to develop these skills. Regardless of the complexity of the music being played, all executive functions must be employed to bring the music to life.

A study involving children aged 9 to 12 found a significant association between music lessons and improved executive function. Neuroimaging studies have shown evidence of enhanced executive functions in musically trained children and adolescents, particularly among those from underprivileged backgrounds. Students who participated in after-school music lessons demonstrated a greater ability to delay gratification, indicating improved concentration on tasks.

Structured instrumental music programs have proven particularly effective in fostering executive function. Children involved in these programs exhibit superior memory, visuospatial skills, numerical understanding, and reading abilities compared to their non-musical peers. Additionally, at-risk children who engage in music lessons show better academic performance. Music training provides auditory and cognitive enrichment, supporting critical developmental phases and enhancing literacy skills and academic progress.

Why Kids Quit Music Lessons

Many children express enthusiasm for learning to play a musical instrument as early as age 6 or 7. However, about 50% of students drop out of music lessons and other musical activities by the time they turn 17, with most quitting between the ages of 15 and 17.

Home Environment

The home environment significantly influences dropout rates. Having a private space to practice is crucial, as no child wants to sound bad in front of others. Providing a safe space allows them to experiment and take musical risks, fostering creativity and self-discovery.

Developmental Benefits of Music

Research shows that musical engagement and skill development are vital for fostering various traits and skills in children and adolescents. Making music with others promotes identity development and helps young people cope with the challenges of growing up. These positive effects should motivate parents, music instructors, and teachers to encourage ongoing participation. Parental support and a strong relationship with music teachers are critical for maintaining children’s motivation.

Individual Factors

Individual factors also drive musical development, including physical predispositions, personality, and emotional connections to music. For many children, the primary reasons for engaging in music are fun, creativity, and the desire for meaningful experiences.

Key Reasons for Learning an Instrument

1. Anticipation of Learning: The excitement of starting something new stimulates imagination and has a positive impact on mood and outlook.

2. Enjoyment of Playing: The rewarding experience of creating sound from an instrument is empowering for young minds. Participation in cultural events, museums, and live concerts can further enhance their engagement with music.

3. Self-Regulatory Strategies: Learning an instrument cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills. A good teacher can help students discover and utilize these skills, benefiting them in other areas of their lives.

4. Support System: The support of family members, instructors, and friends plays a crucial role in whether kids continue or quit music. Active encouragement from family can greatly enhance a student’s musical experience.

Transition to Adulthood

Musicians often quit during the transition from adolescence to adulthood, typically when they start working or attend university. The most musically active age group is 9–12, followed by a decline from ages 13–17, and minimal activity in the 18–24 age range.

Common Reasons for Dropping Musical Activities

The most frequent reasons for discontinuation include:

• Socio-economic factors

• Loss of motivation

• Decreased support

• Logistical issues, such as transportation to and from music lessons

Despite quitting, many individuals value their time spent making music and consider it a lifelong enrichment, carrying that experience with them throughout their lives.