What does the hardness of an alto saxophone reed do?

Answer:
The number on the reed indicates the thickness of the reed. A thinner reed is easier to blow, but also is more delicate and does not last as long. Most beginners start with a lower number reed and, as their "chops" develop, move up to a higher number. Higher numbered reeds also improve quality of sound. It is most common to see a professional using a 2 1/2 - 3 saxophone reed.
Contributor: Rob
First answer by ID1115218516. Last edit by Rob Whitney. Contributor trust: 0 [recommend contributor recommended]. Question popularity: 2 [recommend question].