What's included

• 8 Days bench time (weekdays only) in our workshop
• Set of tools for use for duration of course
• All the parts and materials required to re-pad a saxophone (alto or tenor)
• Training / instruction and oversight from our technician
• Online portal access to a range of digital resource including course notes and templates. 
• Basic repair kit

Format

While we find the way to get the most out of this course is to set a side 8 consecutive days (excluding the weekend), we understand that's not always easy. Once signed up you will be sent a link to our live calendar to book the days that suit you best - choose 8 weekdays within a four-week period. 
The course will involve one-on-one tuition and time for you to work on the saxophone under supervision.

Course Overview

Lesson 1: Introduction to Saxophone Repair

• Overview of sax anatomy: body, keys, pads, springs, screws, corks.
• Tools and materials required: screwdrivers, pad adhesive, cork cement, pliers, leak light, pad set, spring hook, tone hole cleaner.
• Importance of regular maintenance and repair.
  
  

Lesson 2: Disassembly of the Saxophone

• Proper method for removing keys and rods.
• Organising removed parts to avoid misplacement.
• Inspection of keywork, tone holes, and pads for wear and damage.
  
  

Lesson 3: Removing Old Pads and Corks

• Techniques for safely removing old pads without damaging the key cups.
• Removing and replacing neck corks.
• Cleaning.
  
  

Lesson 4: Installing New Pads

• Choosing the right pad size and material.
• Heating key cups and applying adhesive.
• Aligning pads for an airtight seal.
  
  

Lesson 5: Key Adjustment and Spring Tension

• Proper tensioning of springs for smooth key action.
• Adjusting key height and alignment for optimal playability.
• Ensuring proper response and regulation of key mechanisms.
  
  

Lesson 6: Final Assembly and Testing

• Reinstalling all keys in the correct order.
• Final testing for leaks and making necessary adjustments.

• Polishing the instrument and lubricating moving parts.

Pricing

Eight-day course and all materials $2900. Add $800 if you would like us to provide a saxophone (you keep afterwards).

Not everyone has the same base level of technical skill or fine motor skills. While this course covers how to re-pad a saxophone, and you will do this over the 8 days, to master these skills and be able to diagnose and troubleshoot this level of work adequately takes, much longer. Over the years we've trained many people; from our experience it takes approximate three years of full-time apprenticeship to work independently and be competent in basic woodwind servicing. The range of advanced techniques required for re-pads and rebuilds takes many more years to master.  We say this not to diminish what will be achieved through this course, but to place is as the beginning. Much more practise and work will be required to hone the skills introduced in this course. 

Booking

Please complete the below form to express your interest in this course and we will contact you.