An acoustical study of alto saxophone mouthpiece chamber design

Abstract

Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Rochester, 1972. --- Vita. --- Ruler in pocket on back flyleaf.This thesis is the result of a study made of the influence of the saxophone mouthpiece chamber design upon tone quality, intonation, and other playing characteristics. Its aim is to furnish information which will be helpful to teachers and performers in choosing an appropriate mouthpiece for a particular desired tone quality. The research is limited to investigation of alto saxophone mouthpieces. Tests were conducted on twelve different designs. Measurements of each design were correlated with objective and subjective test results in order to isolate the effects of individual design parameters. Tone quality tests made use of spectrum analysis of selected tones from the range of the instrument. A Stroboconn tuner was used in making frequency measurements. The use of mechanical embouchures was avoided in order to duplicate actual playing conditions and to benefit from subjective reactions of the players taking part in the testing. The major conclusions are concerned with the relative brightness of tone quality and the evenness of tone quality throughout the playing range of the instrument. The design factors responsible for these characteristics are identified. Other premises are formed on intonation, mouthpiece resistance, dynamic range, and carrying power. Findings from the spectrum analysis indicate some new considerations for tone quality theory in the form of undamped and "accessory" harmonics which are not accounted for in presently held theories