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Get a rope! - Page 2

© Chris Mindel

The final thing I should mention is the harness. Many people don’t like the pull of gravity tugging twenty (or more) pounds off their neck. So they opt for a harness. There are many makers of harnesses, and since I’ve only used neckstraps, I’ll pass along my friends comments. They work! The harness is designed to disperse the weight over your entire torso. Many also offer a variety of hookup options, so they can be adjusted to any performance environment. A good thing to research if your neck is sore and your back is aching.

And, yes, there are those who will say that neckstraps are for the weak, and true saxophonists carry the weight in their hands. To them I say: I hope your fingers don’t get slippery! I know I wouldn’t trust my saxophone to just being held up by my hands. I’m too clumsy, and my saxophone is too important to risk.

So, if your neckstrap isn’t doing its job well, know that there are options out there. Perhaps your local music store will let you bring in your sax and try out some neckstraps. When you find the one that works for you, your sax will be lighter on its feet - or, at least, on your neck!

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