New Selmer Paris Alto Saxophones are In Stock!

We are thrilled to announce the arrival of two exceptional Selmer Paris Alto Saxophones: the Selmer Paris “Axos” and the Selmer Paris “Signature”. These instruments offer superior quality and performance for musicians of all levels. Read on to learn more about what makes these models stand out and how you can experience them firsthand.

The Selmer Paris “Axos”: The Accessible Professional Choice
The Seles Axos saxophone is made in the Henri Selmer Paris factory located in Mantes-la-Ville, France, the same factory where all other Selmer models have been crafted since 1922. Like all top-of-the-range Henri Selmer Paris instruments, the Axos continues the tradition of craftsmanship while integrating new industrial techniques.

Features:

  • The “Axos” is made with the same quality metals as other Henri Selmer Paris saxophones.
  • The treatment of the strategic part of the saxophone, the bore, in Selmer’s metal workshops is as rigorous as the treatment of their professional models.
  • This ensures that the Henri Selmer Paris sound identity—a delicate balance between rich harmonics and roundness of sound—is found in the “Axos”.

Despite its affordability, the “Axos” doesn’t compromise on quality. Known for its rich, dark tonal quality, this saxophone suits a wide range of musical styles and skill levels. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking for a “forever” instrument that grows with them over time.

The Selmer Paris “Signature”: A Legacy Reimagined
The “Signature” alto embodies the evolution of the Super Action 80 Series II model, which has made a significant impact on the history of the saxophone since its release in 1986. While retaining the sound characteristics of the Series II, the Selmer Paris “Signature” offers improved accuracy, especially in the high register, and enhances the resonance of the low register.

Features:

  • Ergonomics inspired by the Series II to meet the needs of all musicians, benefiting from the latest innovations developed for the Supreme.
  • A new 3-point neck receiver system for better sound homogeneity.
  • A nickel-silver tightening ring for greater density in the sensitive neck zone.
  • An octave key with Teflon supports for more mechanical fluidity.
  • Adorned with an original Art Deco-style engraving paying homage to the age-old techniques passed down from generation to generation within the Selmer Paris factory since 1919.

The “Signature” alto is both a traditional saxophone and a beacon of modernity. This saxophone excels in both classical and jazz settings, making it a top pick for those who demand the best in sound customization.

Experience Them Yourself: Schedule Your Appointment
We invite you to experience the distinct qualities of the Selmer Paris “Axos” and “Signature” models firsthand at Paige’s Music. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to assist you in exploring these magnificent saxophones and finding the perfect match for your musical journey. To ensure you get personalized attention and a dedicated session, we encourage you to schedule an appointment in advance.

Don’t miss the opportunity to elevate your music with Selmer’s latest offerings. Whether you’re performing in a concert hall or jazz club, these saxophones will help you deliver outstanding performances. Visit Paige’s Music and discover why Selmer Paris remains a top choice for musicians around the world!

Is your Cello or Bass “Howling” – Understanding Wolf Tones

If you’ve been playing the cello for a while, you might have encountered an unusual sound when playing an F# on the G or D strings, coupled with excessive vibration. This phenomenon is known as a wolf tone. It occurs when the note you’re playing is close to the natural resonance frequency of the cello, typically between F and G. The resulting sound is an artificial overtone that amplifies the frequency of the note, leading to a wolf tone. So, what can you do about it?

Identifying the Wolf Tone The first step in addressing a wolf tone is to understand its cause. A wolf tone arises when the resonance of the string clashes with the resonance of the cello body. While it’s challenging to eliminate a wolf tone completely, there are effective ways to manage it.

Consult a Luthier Taking your cello to a luthier should be your first course of action. They can check for set-up issues that might contribute to the wolf tone, such as a tight sound post, a high bridge, or high-tension strings. A professional assessment can pinpoint the exact cause and suggest appropriate adjustments.

Wolf Mitigating Options Several products on the market can help mitigate wolf tones. These include:

  • Wolf Eliminators: These are weights attached to the string between the bridge and the tailpiece. They help reduce the intensity of the wolf tone.
  • Wolf Modulators: This option involves a magnetic weight. The heavier side is placed behind the top, and the smaller side goes on the front, held in place by the magnet.

Playing Techniques For mild wolf tones, altering your playing technique can also help. You can try:

  • Applying less bow weight.
  • Applying more weight on the fingerboard.
  • Squeezing the cello between your knees when playing the problematic note.

Remember, these techniques might affect the overall sound, so be prepared for some trial and error to find what works best for you.

Other Instruments While wolf tones are most commonly found in cellos, they can sometimes occur in basses and, rarely, in violins and violas. It’s important to be aware of this if you play or are considering playing these instruments.

Paige’s Music Can Help At Paige’s Music, our full-service repair shop is equipped to help you address wolf tones. Our trained specialist staff can guide you in installing wolf eliminators and modulators. If you rent or purchase an instrument from us and discover a wolf tone, we’ll fix it before you leave the store.

Managing wolf tones is crucial for maintaining the quality of your cello’s sound. Whether through professional adjustments or playing techniques, there are ways to reduce their impact. For expert assistance, visit Paige’s Music. We’re here to ensure your instrument sounds its best. Ready to address your cello’s wolf tone? Visit Paige’s Music today for professional help and advice. Let us help you make your cello or bass sing!

New Trumpets Incoming!

This month marks two years since I have started at Paige’s Music and I am so proud of how we have grown our presence in the trumpet community through our awesome videos, new accessories, and even the new trumpets that we are carrying! With all of that said, this month could be the biggest yet! We are so excited to have more custom and professional trumpets in stock than ever before with more coming over the next few months!

Over the last few years, I’m sure you’ve heard about the changes being made up at Bach/Conn Selmer. We are so excited to have some of their B-flat and C trumpets alongside the iconic Conn Vintage One in stock!

This month we should also receive some of the custom C Trumpets from Yamaha that are very hard to get! Additionally, Shires has quickly ascended to being one of the most sought-after trumpet brands in the trumpet community. Over the next few months, we’ll be getting more of their custom line trumpets.

So, please watch our social media and YouTube channel for announcements on these incredible instruments and their availability. If you are interested in knowing more specifics about what we have in stock or will be getting, feel free to reach out to me personally. We are so excited to have these instruments in stock for our valued customers to come in and try them out!

How to Make the Most Out of Summer Break

Now that summer break has officially begun, you might be wondering, “What should I do with my instrument over break?”, “Do I really NEED to practice this summer?”, or “What can I do with music that’s not summer marching band?”. While some schools offer summer activities for students, there are other important things to consider during the break to set yourself up for success in the next school year!

1. Get a Clean, Oil, and Adjust (COA) on Your Flute

Summer is the perfect time to bring your flute into our repair shop for a Clean, Oil, and Adjust (COA). Getting your flute serviced once per year keeps it in great condition, allowing you to play your best throughout the year. Our expert repair technicians will take excellent care of your flute. Simply bring your flute into our store, check it in with our sales staff, and pick it up a week later. Your flute will play like a dream!

2. Take Time to Rest

It’s called “Summer Break” for a reason! Take some time to rest and enjoy activities that bring you joy. Resting will make you feel rejuvenated and ready to start the new school year. Discover a new hobby, spend time with friends and family, go on vacation, and do whatever makes you happy!

3. Remember to Get Some Practice Time In

While taking a short break from your instrument is beneficial, you don’t want to stop playing altogether during the summer. Not practicing can make you backtrack, and when the school year starts, you might feel rusty. Playing something fun during the summer can help maintain your skills. There are countless online sources for flute music, including free ones. Find music you enjoy and practice that!

4. Look into Private Lessons

Summer is a great time to start private lessons. This can give you a head start for the next school year, and there is usually more availability in studios during the summer months. Working with a private teacher can greatly expand your skills. One-on-one sessions with a flute specialist allow you to focus on areas you might not have time for during band class. Good news! We have a convenient page on our website to help you find local teachers: Find a Teacher.

5. Go See a Concert

With all the extra free time during summer, why not check out some live music? Attending a concert—whether it’s classical, pop, rock, or any genre you like—can be a great way to get inspired without practicing your instrument. Many orchestras, concert bands, and other music groups offer free concerts throughout the summer.

3rd Annual Tuba & Euphonium Day Recap

It’s been almost a month, and I am still basking in the afterglow of the Third Annual Tuba & Euphonium Day that took place here at Paige’s Music on April 27. To call the event a success would be selling short my feelings about it, so let’s just give it a quick recap.

This year saw the largest assortment of tubas and euphoniums the store has ever seen at one time – from Yamaha, Shires, Willson, and Eastman, many instruments were brought in specifically for people to try out at Tuba & Euphonium Day (huge thanks to Eastman Music Company for coordinating so many different horns).

We welcomed Scott Sutherland to the store as our guest artist for this year’s event. From the very beginning, Scott showed just how incredible a musician and all-around human being he is, working with players of all ages to demo instruments all day with knowledge, friendliness, personal attention, and most of all a genuine enthusiasm that never waned.

The day culminated in Scott giving a clinic on incorporating technology into a musician’s daily routine – whether it’s in the practice room, onstage, or in a DIY recording studio. He accompanied this with a live performance that married his own (awesome) YouTube videos with in-person playing. (Did I mention his YouTube content is awesome? Seriously, check it out if you haven’t. There was even an impromptu, surprise (even to me) performance by yours truly of “Pure Imagination” from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory with Scott accompanying on piano (yes, he plays piano, too – and beautifully).

Take Your Sound to the Next Level with Paige’s Music Premier June Sale!

Are you ready to elevate your musical journey? This June, Paige’s Music is excited to help you upgrade your instrument with our exclusive Premier June Sale. Whether you’re an aspiring musician or an experienced player looking to enhance your sound, we have an incredible offer just for you.

New Ligatures Now in Stock at Paige’s Music

We are thrilled to announce that we are expanding our inventory of ligatures! For those who might not be familiar, a ligature is a small but crucial piece of equipment for woodwind players. It secures the reed to the mouthpiece, directly influencing the sound and playability of the instrument. Here at Paige’s Music, we understand the importance of having the right ligature to match your playing style and needs. That’s why we’re excited to introduce three new ligatures to our collection:

GIVEAWAY ANNOUNCEMENT: “Beethoven x Beyoncé” with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra

GIRLS! They run the world…. they turn up the night… and if you liked it, then you should have put a ring on it! This newest fusion production by Steve Hackman celebrates and elevates all things woman!

We’re thrilled to partner with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (ISO) to bring you an unforgettable evening with “Beethoven x Beyoncé,” a part of ISO’s groundbreaking Uncharted Series. Imagine the exhilarating combination of classical music’s King and pop’s Queen, as Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony, one of the most joyful celebrations of dance in the symphonic repertoire, sets the stage for an innovative musical fusion.