Musician testimonials
A compilation of musicians’ voices from around the world.
Saxophone
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I have been playing the saxophone for many years.
Until recently, I regarded the strap as a mere accessory to keep the instrument from falling and to help me decide the position of the instrument.
I felt all the straps were more or less the same.
But I was surprised to find that the BREATHTAKING Strap not only strongly supports the body and the instrument, but also improves sound quality.
Not only that, but I also feel calm once I put on this strap.
For me, the BREATHTAKING strap is more than a tool, an important "partner." -
Ever since I was a student, I have tried different types of straps as I noticed that sound quality changed dramatically depending on the strap being used.
However, I couldn't find one that could satisfy me 100% because each strap had its merits and demerits.
However, BREATHTAKING is an ideal one.
It's got everything: Comfortability, improved tone, good design, durability, body stress reduction.
"A good tool is the best teacher"
Not only does BREATHTAKING make playing fun, but also it's a strap that changes the future. -
The best feature of BREATHTAKING is that it caters to a player’s needs.
The most basic problems when producing sound are breathing and posture.
This strap takes away the problems so that the player can focus only on the performance.
And since it is carefully made, it supports the weight of different horns, from soprano to baritone. -
The arrival of BREATHTAKING sent shockwaves to the saxophone world.
It enables one to focus only on playing the saxophone, free from stressors exerted on the body.
Since using BREATHTAKING, I've realized how relaxed I am when I breathe, noticed how my posture is properly maintained, as well as the dramatic improvement in tonal density.
The difference in sound quality is particularly astonishing.
One's skill doesn’t improve just because of a change in the tools being used.
However, the fact that I deeply care about tone quality makes me want to use a wonderful tool when I find one.
BREATHTAKING is one such tool. -
BREATHTAKING evenly distributes the instrument's weight and reduces body stress.
I have been using it for about 5 years; the other day I experienced something that reconfirmed its appeal.
When I was discussing saxophone straps with my buddies, I ended up trying another strap.
After playing for a while, I switched back to BREATHTAKING and couldn't believe how much the sound quality improved! It just blew my mind!
We get used to things after a while but I never imagined that BREATHTAKING has contributed to the improvement of sound quality and resonance so much.
BREATHTAKING is a "must have" for me now. You will understand once you give it a try. -
It is more comfortable than previous version due to a comfortable fit.
And what is amazing is that you can get a richer and more focused tone color.
I'm very happy about the sound quality when performing in a big hall - it carries reallly well.
Powerful performance is my strength but, compared to the past, I now don't have to put too much strain on my upper body, and I think I can play in a more relaxed manner.
I can't play without it now. -
The BREATHTAKING Strap reduces stress on the body and allows the instrument to become one with your body.
As saxophone is a wind instrument reliant on breath support, the ease of breathing is a critical component to expressing our emotions through the instrument.
The most important quality of the BREATHTAKING Strap is that it allows for unrestricted breathing.
Hence, we're able to focus more naturally on performance.
It's a companion that maximizes the length of my performance career day by day. -
The moment I switched to BREATHTAKING, the sound (produced by my sax) changed! I then realized that before I made the switch,
how much stress my body had endured! One who can appreciate such a change has lots of potential to improve. -
I've been using all the models of BREATHTAKING since it went on the market.
I think the main common feature of all the models is that BREATHTAKING straps do not compress the neck or the body.
As a result, I can play in a relaxed manner.
Each new BREATHTAKING model gets better and the newest Lithe Premium has a comfortable fit because of the soft leather and adjusting the length is now easier as well.
Also, by using the Wraplift, I feel that stress on my body is further reduced.
When my body naturally moves with the music, it doesn't get in the way so I can perform comfortably. -
I first encountered the BREATHTAKING Strap through my former teacher during my middle school years.
Since then, I've been drawn to the unique design and started using it in high school.
The strap reduces stress on the body from the weight of the instrument, relieves pressure around the neck to allow for freer breathing (something that was always an issue with traditional straps), gives off a sensation of support of the instrument, and most importantly brings forth an unbelievable amount of change in sound in performance.
The strap also adjusts seamlessly from one instrument type to another, something we as saxophonists have been stressed by before.
The strap truly frees us from having to practice battling unnecessary aforementioned issues.
I feel gratefuly to the team at BREATHTAKING for not only providing a product that shook the saxophone community by storm but also commits to improving the strap every day.
This strap is incredible. -
I've been using the BREATHTAKING strap since graduating college.
Even before blowing into the instrument, there's a level of comfort where you feel as though the instrument is a part of you, allowing for a performance that delivers air that just flows into the instrument without any outside stress.
I personally like the design of the strap itself and find it elevates my motivation.
There are many different sizes and variety of colors, it's a product I recommend to all performing saxophonists. -
Whether we can manipulate a musical instrument freely depends on how well we communicate with our body.
To give a good performance, it is important to know how not to waste energy while playing the instrument.
BREATHTAKING helps us achieve that.
Many saxophone-related problems stem from the fact that we hang our instrument around our neck.
Too much stress on the neck hinders deep breathing and muscle movements, and causes neck pain and shoulder tension as well.
BREATHTAKING was developed with the aim of reducing this stress.
Even for those who are confident about their physical health will notice the increased freedom if this strap is used.
And those who suffer even from the slightest neck problem can be helped by this strap.
I have met many such people.
BREATHTAKING was developed by my student, Yumiko Komura, who hit on the idea of developing this strap through her own struggle with body pain.
BREATHTAKING was developed as a result of her tremendous effort and continuous experimentation.
BREATHTAKING alleviates the damage on our bodies as a result of long-term use of the ordinary neck straps, and helps us perform better. -
I’ve been a user of the BREATHTAKING Straps since high school. The strap has allowed me to breathe in more smoothly and has relieved my shoulder tension,
both of which were issues I’ve struggled with for a very long time. When I used other straps due to leaving the BREATHTAKING Strap home by accident,
I couldn’t breathe well and my body tensed up, causing resonance in my sound to diminish.
In moments like these, I’ve come to further acknowledge and realize just how supportive the BREATHTAKING Straps have been to my playing.
The strap has noticeable effects to overall performance, just as any changes to the parts or fundamental equipment of the saxophone would have.
I love that we can play on soprano saxophone down to baritone saxophone with just one strap. As such, there’s no other strap I can see myself using. -
Thanks to the BREATHTAKING Saxophone Strap Lithe, stress on my neck has gone and shoulder tension drastically reduced.
The air seems to go straight into the instrument because the strap doesn't tighten the throat.
As I am relaxed when performing, tonguing and fingering seem like second nature.
Breathing makes all the difference.
Lithe is the second most important item next to my instruments. -
Shaping the future: my savior, BREATHTAKING.
There are three things that I've been moved by from using the BREATHTAKING Strap.
The first was when I tried on the original Lithe version; the instrument so light and easy to play, I bought one on the spot.
The next was when the Lithe Premium I came out in 2014; when compared to the original, the resonance sounded more refined.
Visually they looked indentical but even those just listening could tell there was a difference in the resulting sounds; everyone was impressed!
The this was when I accidentally left my strap home and had to use a generic backup strap. After getting used to the BREATHTAKING strap, the generic strap dug into my neck and made breathing difficult and the instrument felt heavy. I was overcome with gratitude and was touched by just how much I've been helped by the BREATHTAKING strap.
A miraculous strap that not only promotes unrestricted breathing but also improves overall tone. The frequency of visits to a physical therapist from back and shoulder pain diminished. I wonder what would've happened if I was using a strap that didn't suit my body for close to 10 years.
BREATHTAKING is my savior, for ending a long-time issue regarding straps. -
A change in sound, body and heart.
This is the first strap that enables me to make such rich sound that I sometimes find myself wondering, "did I change the mouthpiece?”
I've tried many different straps in the past, but with this strap, whether it be on soprano, alto or tenor saxophones, I get the best sound.
Air flows into the instrument more readily, and I feel my body more relaxed, perhaps because I'm not pushing my body as hard to play. Thank you!
The strap now comes in numerous colors and there are also various fashionable charms available. I get excited from just wearing the strap.
In orchestra I use the black, but when wearing a colorful dress or when I want to change my mood, I use the silver or white straps. Which strap shall I wear today? Hehe. -
It is said that a good workman does not blame his tools, but I think if one really wants to create an ultimate piece of art, one should definitely pick out the right tool.
Similarly, although a music player cannot change his/her skill by just changing the tool, tool selection is extremely important when it comes to efficiently draw out
the player's ability, and to accurately emphasize the part that the player intends to emphasize.
Everybody is particular about finding a tool that can help produce the ultimate sound.
BREATHTAKING draws out a player’s potential to the utmost.
And yes - the rest is up to the player. -
The BREATHTAKING Strap is truly a wonderful strap.
I've been using the strap from the first version and have occasionally dabbled with other straps since then.
I always come right back to the BREATHTAKING strap. The more I use it, the more I realize just how much the strap affects posture and tone.
I've actually used another strap for a period of time and then came close to developing TMJ.
When I returned to the BREATHTAKING strap, these issues went away immediately.
Recent versions of the strap have stylish designs with soft and supple leather that's luxurious to the touch.
The strap has been a staple in my equipment and will continue to be so! -
I've been playing the saxophone for forty-some years, and every year I tended to suffer from neck and back pain - particularly since I have been playing baritone more.
I have given up trying to deal with this occupational disease. However, since I started using the BREATHTAKING Strap several years ago, I have been almost pain-free.
I think many people have talked about the merits of using BREATHTAKING for better performance, but continuous use enables me to attest to the long-term physical benefits that I talked about.
Thank you again! -
As someone who performs the saxophone on a regular basis, I feel that using the BREATHTAKING Strap has helped reduce the amount of fatigue I experience.
The strap certainly makes it easier for me to play the instrument, but more importantly, it enables me to continue to perform even as I age!
The BREATHTAKING Strap connects me to the saxophone in a gentle and supportive way. -
BREATHTAKING amazingly has reduced my chronic neck and shoulder pain.
I can support the instrument freely without feeling constricted.
As a result, I can breathe more robustly and the sound carries better.
I clearly remember the difference in sound quality between using the conventional neck strap and this one.
It's a product that enables me to concentrate on producing better sound and expression at all times.
I use the Wraplift and have noticed my ability to maintain good condition has also increased.
Recently, more grade-school students and elderly players are using BREATHTAKING.
I recommend BREATHTAKING so that everyone can enjoy the saxophone and music for many years to come. -
Improvisation is of utmost important in my musical craft. We have to be able to manipulate tone and registers at will in performance in order to achieve the ideal sound we envision and equipment was resultantly become a factor in making this possible.
The BREATHTAKING strap supports these pursuits by freeing the neck area from any constriction, allowing for more freedom in controlling the tonal timbres of lower and higher registers of the saxophone, promoting a centered and stable playing position, just too many to list when we go down the rabbit hole of how much the sounds changes among others.
Honestly speaking, I was never one to have a strong preference to my own setup but when thinking about maximizing the lengh of my career, I believe I'll continue to use the BREATHTAKING strap unless zero gravity or something becomes a reality.
It may be slightly expensive, but I believe it's worth every penny. -
The strap is so comfortable because it doesn't press on my neck.
You can feel the obvious difference with heavier instrument like baritone, so it's really invaluable!
Since I can play without much stress on my body, the sound carries better. I recommend it! -
he strap is so comfortable because it doesn't press on my neck.
You can feel the obvious difference with heavier instrument like baritone, so it's really invaluable!
Since I can play without much stress on my body, the sound carries better. I recommend it! -
I've been performing for over 30 years, being meticulous about my equipment and setup from the instrument and mouthpiece, down to the reed and ligature.
The strap was something I didn't even consider.
I wish I had switched over to the BREATHTAKING strap sooner.
I carried lots of pain in the neck area, so much that it made performing a difficult task; that's where I arrived at BREATHTAKING.
I was released from pain and am able to have longer, more focused and enjoyable practice sessions and performances.
The instrument feels so much lighter than before, to the point any stress on the body during performance is diminished.
Of course, you can breathe in more deeply.
And there's better control of the instrument as a whole.
It's easier to achieve one's ideal sound and performance.
I truly can't think of any negatives. Well, perhaps there's one; the worry induced from when you imagine accidentally forgeting to pack the strap. -
A few years ago, I suffered from cervical herniation caused by using the conventional neck strap.
After battling the pain for a year, I fully recovered.
While recovering, I still had to perform so I was indebted to the BREATHTAKING Strap.
The old model was kind to the neck and made my sound richer, so I liked it very much but the front bar seemed too thick.
The bar in the new Lithe series is more subtle and stylish and I am grateful that I can easily adjust the length.
The design around the neck has improved - it doesn't compress the neck. Therefore, compared to the old model, it makes the sound come out easier and resonate even better.
It's so excellent! I love it. -
BREATHTAKING supports very natural and smooth breathing.
Even in tough performances such as playing solo in an orchestra, with the instrument fully supported by BREATHTAKING,
I always feel the strap has become my strong ally and am reassured. -
Since turning 35, I've started to suffer from shoulder tension and backache.
Compared to when I was in my 20s, I became tired more easily when I played, but I resigned to the fact that it was due to age.
Then my quartet member told me about the strap. I was skeptical but I tried it.
My breathing became easier and I could use my whole body when I played.
Of course, I no longer feel pain now and I feel like I can play the saxophone forever.
Health is everything!!!! I highly recommend BREATHTAKING. -
Since I started using BREATHTAKING, the stress on my neck is reduced, my breathing is not interrupted, and my range of expression has broadened.
Try it once - you won't be able to give it up!
And you will probably be able to have the best performance ever. -
It goes without say that for playing the saxophone, the strap is an important accessory that affects various aspects of performance.
I used to view a strap as a tool to just clip on the saxophone and let hang from the neck. BREATHTAKING completely changed all of that.
There less stress on the body, you're more free and that let's you maintain posture and breathing in natural form.
You can blow smoothly, response increases, sound resonates and carries further.
These interlinked benefits are what I feel the BREATHTAKING brings and are my reasons for conitnued usage as a discriminating performer.
I believe these aformentioned factors are noticed by not only those within Japan but by many players abroad which is why they're so well loved.
The Limited Edition colors that are produced every year give off a deep sense of fashion and I look forward to them each year! -
At the risk of being misunderstood, I think the ultimate goal when playing a wind instrument is “not doing anything (special)".
The key is whether one is able to disregard playing an instrument as doing something special.
The new BREATHTAKING is so comfortable that I hardly even notice it on my body, which is so relaxed that I feel as though I was just having a nice conversation with my friend.
It allows me to not consciously think, "OK! I'm gonna play now!" and that easily realizes my goal of "not being consciously aware of playing". -
I started using the BREATHTAKING strap since 2010.
When I first used BREATHTAKING during my performance, I was really surprised at the obvious change in the tone of my saxophone.
The strap does not squeeze my neck and the burden on my body is reduced. As a result, my breath can easily and smoothly enter the instrument, making the sound thicker and richer than before.
More than anything else, the strap is very comfortable to wear, making it easy for me to concentrate on my performance.
BREATHTAKING is the only strap I use now – I cannot use any other straps anymore! -
The BREATHTAKING strap has been a game changer in terms of physical comfort and freedom of breath. I debated purchasing one for several years but waited for the price - I finally chose one at the World Saxophone Congress in Croatia in July 2018 and I wish I had bought it sooner! Taiki Azuma patiently helped me find the one that was comfortable and the best fit for my shoulders, and I am now a huge advocate for this strap! I noticed an immediate lightness and freedom in my sound, and the back/neck pain that I usually experienced after long practice sessions and days of teaching is much less. I now use this strap for soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone. It is comfortable to wear all day, and I continue to notice improved posture, less physical tension, and a more resonant tone. Several of my students have also purchased the strap with similar results. In addition to a great product, I have been impressed with the care and customer service of BREATHTAKING Co, Ltd. Thanks for creating such an amazing product!
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For me, Breathtaking is just a godsend, because since my student days I have been experiencing discomfort in the spine while practicing the instrument. The Breathtaking strap distributes the instrument's weight evenly across the back. Besides, I am attracted by its exquisite design. Thank you very much for your concern!
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The BREATHTAKING Strap is very comfortable and suitable for everybody. As I travel a lot it does not take much space and fits perfectly in the saxophone case. It gives you a comfortable feeling and well equilibrated weight of your saxophone while playing. Nothing disturbs you while performing and practicing. Enjoy!
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This is FREEDOM!
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It came in just a few days before I recorded a new CD, and I used it for all of the long recording sessions. It felt great! I never minded the weight of the saxophones and was able to keep going in long sessions without the normal physical fatigue I was expecting. I've been using it non-stop since then.
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Not only is the BREATHTAKING Strap comfortable, but it also promotes proper posture and proper breath. I would recommend the BREATHTAKING Strap to any serious saxophonist.
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BREATHTAKING has helped me to eliminate unnecessary tensions throughout my body when I play the saxophone. As an educator, I often recommend BREATHTAKING to my students, because I believe this strap improves a musician’s awareness of physical issues. This strap has improved my stamina, my posture, and has allowed me to focus on what all musicians wish to achieve, “creating music without tension.” It has become an essential part of my equipment. Thank you BREATHTAKING for your efforts in improving performers’ health, and for your friendship.
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The BREATHTAKING Strap is the most comfortable strap I have every tried. It perfectly blends the advantages of a harness with the comfort of a strap to give me the freedom I need to perform without strain or fatigue. I am also so impressed with the quality of the product. It is as beautifully made as it is effective.
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Just a quick note to tell you how much I enjoy using the Breathtaking Strap. It is wonderful! Now that I have adjusted to it, it is nearly impossible to use the old fashioned neck straps that pinch my neck. It makes playing easier, and it helps me to be more relaxed when I perform. Thank you for the excellent product.
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Breathtaking is one of the most comfortable and innovative saxophone straps I have ever used. I like the original design but the new version has so much more to offer. Its versatility and ergonomics are unmatched; I can now play all four sizes of saxophone without having to change my strap! Moreover, the weight of the instrument can now be distributed evenly on the trapezius muscles, which help stabilizing the scapulae and arm movements. Players should be able to obtain better playing posture in general. Congratulations on such a wonderful product!
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I have been using the Breathtaking strap since two years and I must say I fell in love with it from the first moment when my collegue and friend Kenneth Tse lent me his to try it out. Since than I never even thought of replacing it with something else and for me it is the best product on the market. When I am playing I feel relaxed and free and the combination of design, ergonomics and material is so natural and good for me. Most of my students and friends are using Breathtaking as well and they all could confirm my statement.
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The BREATHTAKING Strap Lithe Premium has been a really happy discovery for me. It really takes the pressure off the neck (eliminating all the problems of conventional neck straps), but puts the instrument in a much more natural playing position than typical harnesses. It also works perfectly with a jacket/tailcoat (something I've never been able to get with anything but old-fashioned uncomfortable neck straps before) and thus being able to be used with orchestra/concert dress. I previously used a harness-type in practice/rehearsal, then reverted to the uncomfortable neck strap for concerts requiring jacket/tailcoat. Those problems are now gone thanks to BREATHTAKING. It's beautifully made too, and the white underside of the strap also eliminates the unsightly marks left by some other black leather straps. Perhaps best of all, if sized correctly, it works perfectly with all four main saxophones. (Worth spending the time to get the correct size, and adjust it well). I love it and recommend it highly.
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The BREATHTAKING Saxophone Strap is a gift for any saxophonist. Its quality and elegance are felt from the first moment and it really helps to reduce the feeling of weight of the instrument. For me, the best strap on the market.
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Having suffered from neck pain for many years, trying the Breathtaking Strap Lithe was a revelation. Comfortable and with easy adjustments, this strap allows me to play the soprano, alto, tenor or baritone saxophones without feeling the slightest pain. Congratulations to the designers !
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I could not be happier with the Breathtaking Strap. As soon as I first put the Breathtaking Strap on, I felt less tension in my neck and shoulders and felt more relaxed in general. It was an immediate release. I find it to be especially helpful with the larger saxophones, seeing as I play a lot of tenor. I would recommend using the Breathtaking Saxophone Strap to any and all of my colleagues and students.
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The BREATHTAKING Strap has been a true game-changer for my performance career. I was badly injured in an automobile accident in 2005. After years of procedures and surgeries I continued to struggle as I could not use a traditional neck strap. I tried everything and was unable to find a solution that worked as well as a traditional strap. When I tried the BREATHTAKING strap I was finally able to put in the hours without pain. Unlike other alternatives, it allows perfect posture and holds the saxophone in EXACTLY the right position. I am so thankful for this amazing design and I sincerely don't know where I would be without it. I have used mine for several years now and it looks as good as the day I got it. It is exceptionally well made and the last neck strap I will ever own. Thank you BREATHTAKING for this amazing product!!!
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It is pretty practical to have one strap for 4 saxophones. When I use BREATHTAKING, my body has so much freedom that I can obtain rich musical expression.
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