The saxophone is an imperfect instrument, especially the tenor and soprano, as far as intonation goes. The challenge is to sing on an imperfect instrument that is outside of your body.
The only time I'm miserable is when I can't keep an instrument in tune.
Nevertheless, one doesn't have time to think, oh, well, this is a quarter tone sharp, or flat.
I played in the high school band. I was the one baritone saxophone out of 80 other people. No one could tell whether I was hittin' the right notes or the wrong notes.
If I can hear the music then no, I don't hit a wrong note. But if I can't hear the music because the audience is screaming or the sound system is bad, then I'm subject to stray.
Sometimes the band can't fully hear your fill, so they come in differently. So I've also learned not to really step out too much, because you sacrifice the band when you do that.
The music stuff has been very difficult. It's got to be right, and even then, it better be on key.
I sing in key, thank you very much.
