To achieve a similar "Bel Canto" resonance, Sugawa famously uses: Yamaha Custom EX (YAS-875EX / YSS-875EXG) Mouthpiece: Vandoren Optimum (AL3 or SL3) Reeds: Vandoren Traditional (Blue Box) 📈 How to Study This Album
The album features transcriptions of famous vocal works and original saxophone compositions: nobuya sugawa bel canto
If you’re working on a specific piece from the album, let me know! I can provide: for the Fuzzy Bird Sonata Comparisons between his soprano and alto techniques Sheet music sources for the transcriptions featured To achieve a similar "Bel Canto" resonance, Sugawa
Pay attention to his intonation in the palm keys (high notes), which remain sweet and never "thin." especially on the soprano
He masters the pianissimo (very quiet) registers, especially on the soprano, which is notoriously difficult to play softly. 🛠️ Recommended Equipment
Sugawa’s approach to these pieces offers three main lessons for players:
"Bel Canto" (Italian for "beautiful singing"), focusing on lyricism and melodic expression.