Piano vs. Saxophone: Which Is Harder to Learn?

As someone who plays both instruments, I can confidently say that the saxophone is significantly easier to learn than the piano—by a long shot! Here’s why:

Ⅰ. Technical Simplicity of the Saxophone

One Note at a Time: Unlike the piano, where you must often play multiple notes simultaneously (chords, melodies, and harmonies), the saxophone only requires you to focus on a single note at a time.

Logical Finger Placement: The saxophone’s key layout is brilliantly designed—each finger controls a specific note, making finger positioning more intuitive. On the piano, however, you must train your fingers to move across the keyboard in countless combinations, which takes much more coordination.

Ⅱ. The Challenge of Sound Production

Piano: Instant Beautiful Sound

Even a beginner can press a key on a well-tuned piano, and it will sound pleasant and in-tune. As the original post humorously notes, "Even a well-trained monkey could do it!"

The piano’s mechanics ensure consistent tone quality—no embouchure or breath control required.

Saxophone: A Steeper Learning Curve for Tone

While the saxophone’s mechanics are simpler, producing a good sound is much harder.

Most beginners sound terrible for months, and it typically takes at least two years of regular practice to develop a decent tone.

Some naturally gifted players might achieve a "passable" sound in weeks (like the player mentioned after just six weeks), but this is rare.

Ⅲ. Practice Commitment Matters

Saxophone Demands Consistent Effort:

You can’t just play once a week and expect progress. Daily practice is essential to build embouchure strength, breath control, and tone quality.

Piano is More Forgiving Early On:

Beginners can play simple melodies quickly, even if technique takes years to refine.

Final Verdict

Easier to Start? → Piano (immediate satisfying sound, no breath control).

Easier to Play Well? → Saxophone (simpler note production, no chords).

Harder to Sound Good? → Saxophone (takes years to develop a beautiful tone).

Conclusion: If you want an instrument that’s mechanically easier, go for the saxophone. But if you want instant gratification in sound, the piano wins. However, mastering either requires dedication—just in different ways!