Introduction

If you've been playing the saxophone for three years and suddenly find that certain notes below B do not produce sound, you might be wondering what's going on. This article aims to help you identify the underlying issue and provide solutions that you can try before resorting to professional repair.

Identifying the Problem Area

First, it’s essential to determine which B note is having the issue. Is it the low B on the bell, the low Bb, or a note further down the scale like C or B? Here are some steps to help you diagnose the problem:

Checking the Low B and Low Bb Notes

Regarding the low B and Bb notes, these are not commonly used, but if you are having an issue playing them, there are a few potential causes:

1. **Leak on the Low B Key:

**Check if the low B key is not closing properly. Ensure the pad over the key is in good condition and seated correctly. If you can play the low C and Cwell, but B and Bb are giving you trouble, it likely indicates an issue with these specific keys.

2. **Out-of-Regulation Key Activation:

**If you can play the low C and C but not the B and Bb, it suggests that the mechanism connecting the low B key to the pad is out of regulation. This could be due to compression or detachment of felts or corks, or other key adjustments.

Checking Higher Notes and the Side C Key

For the B on the third line of the staff, which is a higher note, the issue might be more complex:

1. **Side C Key Venting:

**If you can play the B but have trouble with the C, it might be related to the tiny pad located right above the B key. This pad is crucial for the standard C note and can be affected by the small feet on the back of the B and C keys. These feet can become misaligned, causing the pad to not seal properly.

2. **Side C Key Fingering:

**The side C key, accessible with the first finger of the left hand, is often overlooked by young players. If the side C key is venting, you might be able to play the B (low B) but not the C (low C).

Troubleshooting Steps

Now that you have identified the possible issues, here are a few steps you can take to address them:

Step 1: Check the Pad and Mechanism

First, examine the pad over the low B key and check if it is in good condition. Ensure the pad is seated correctly and there are no air leaks. It might be worthwhile to clean the pads if you notice any debris or dirt.

Step 2: Adjust the Key Mechanism

For higher notes, check the small feet on the back of the B and C keys. These should be aligned correctly to activate the tiny pad. If they are out of adjustment, you might need to carefully realign them. However, it is recommended to consult a professional technician if you have no experience with saxophone repairs.

Step 3: Use Alternative Fingering

If the issue persists, you can make up songs that avoid the problematic notes. For instance, you can improvise melodies that do not descend past the B note. This way, you can continue making music without worrying about the fix.

Conclusion

While professional repair services are available, you can attempt some basic maintenance steps to resolve the issue. However, if the problem persists or if you are uncertain about your ability to make the necessary adjustments, it is best to consult a qualified saxophone technician.

Remember, some players may choose to live with a slightly compromised saxophone if the financial burden of repairs is too high. Evaluating the cost-benefit ratio is an important decision to make.