Saxophone Ligatures - Do they Make a Difference?

The difference that a mouthpiece can make to your overall sound is well documented and discussed, but the difference that the ligature (the device used to hold the reed on to the mouthpiece) can make is sometimes underestimated.

What should I consider if I’m choosing a new ligature?

There are a couple of important things to consider. Firstly, the security of the reed on the mouthpiece is hugely important. A ligature should feel comfortable to set up and use and the reed should feel secure on the mouthpiece.

Secondly, and probably the main reason for considering the purchase of a new ligature, is how it allows the reed to resonate and respond. Depending on the type of ligature you choose, the resonance of the reed will either be more controlled or be allowed to resonate more freely.

What types of ligatures are there?

In recent times, the variety of ligatures on the market has expanded massively. No longer is the choice limited to a basic brass ligature; you can now choose from leather, canvas, a variety of metals including silver, gold and rose gold plated, ligatures with a variety of brass plates that offer different contact points on the reed, and even cord.

As a general rule of thumb, metal ligatures will allow the reed to resonate more, and leather or canvas will offer a darker, more muted edge. The point(s) at which the ligature come in to contact with the reed can also have a significant effect.

Basic Brass Ligature

All reed players will have come across this type of ligature at some point. Also referred to as a ‘stock’ ligature, it is usually the type which is included with new mouthpieces or with a new instrument, as they will fit most mouthpieces. They are made of brass, so allow the reed to resonate pretty well, but they are generally of low quality and can warp easily when moving the mouthpiece on and off the instrument. They do the job of keeping the reed on the mouthpiece but will ultimately not last too long and can be unreliable.

Rovner

These ligatures are a favourite amongst both students and professional players. Rovner produce many types of ligatures, but one of the most popular is the Rovner Dark which is made from faux leather. The advantage of this type of ligature is that it is flexible and therefore fits around many sizes of mouthpiece as well as being easy to apply.

The tonal response is different to that of a metal ligature in that the material absorbs some of the reed vibrations making the tone darker and more muted. If you play on a metal mouthpiece, ligatures such as the Rovner Dark can take the edge off the brightness which some players might like. This is a ligature worth serious consideration, not only for its versatility and ease of use, but also for its attractive price point.

Vandoren Optimum 

This is a substantially designed ligature which is easy to fit to your mouthpiece and to adjust. The Vandoren Optimum sits close to the top end of the upgrade ligature market and with good reason. It is well made and has some clever extras such as 3 interchangeable base plates which offer different contact points with the reed. This allows the player to experiment with and personalise their tone, effectively offering 3 ligatures in one at a very reasonable price point.

BG Duo

This is a really nice ligature.  Silver plated and with minimal contact points on the reed, this ligature allows for a huge amount of resonance, great projection and a focused tone. It grips equally well to both cane and synthetic reeds and is easy to set up and switch securely and quickly.

So, does the ligature make a difference? The answer is yes, it absolutely does. The difference between a basic brass ligature and a premium product in terms of sound, response and convenience is huge. Your choice of ligature is a personal one, arrived at by testing to see what fits best for you. Take a look at our website to see what we have in stock and come and try some out!