The Complete Handbook of Saxophone Straps & Supports

The saxophone strap is a simple piece of equipment with a complex job: transferring the instrument's weight from your hands and neck to a more sustainable part of your body. A poor choice can cause neck pain, hand fatigue, and poor posture, affecting your sound and your career. This handbook is a comprehensive, practical guide to everything you need to know about saxophone straps and supports, from a simple neoprene neck strap to a full body harness.

Written for working players, repair technicians, and music retailers, this book avoids subjective marketing hype in favor of concrete technical detail. We cover the material science of straps and pads, the hardware that connects them to your horn, and the ergonomic principles that determine whether a support is right for your body type and playing situation. Separate chapters cover choosing for specific needs (like doubling between alto and baritone), step-by-step installation and daily use, and a troubleshooting guide for common failures like slipping hooks and worn pads.

The final sections address the business of saxophone supports: how to identify the positioning of various manufacturers, where the market is headed, and how to build a retail or service niche around this essential accessory. An extensive FAQ and a clear glossary round out the volume, making it an essential reference to keep in your case, workshop, or store.