Anyone can learn any instrument, but getting started is the hardest and most crucial part.  These characteristics tend to make beginning easier.

Similar to the clarinet, the alto saxophone can be difficult to get a solid tone at first, but with a bit of practice can be achieved.  Lips and mouths of all kinds are adaptable to the saxophone.  Unlike the clarinet, the fingers do not cover holes, so it can be more forgiving to play for small hands, but the keys are further apart, so especially small hands may struggle.  Typically, all of the struggle comes from either not using the proper technique with the mouth, or, if they are squeaking a lot, a misaligned or damaged piece.  The saxophone requires great determination since there are usually only a few in each band; this is not the instrument to play if you want to blend in.

Personality: Saxophonists are typically the loudest and most eccentric of the beginning woodwinds, though some quieter (but still eccentric) players have found their home here.  They can be very outgoing and laid back – they don’t tend to be as detail-oriented as flute players, but also don’t mind playing loudly.  Confidence is a must for a saxophonist.

Woodwind instruments require a more careful and responsible player than brass instruments as woodwinds can be fairly finicky and do not take abuse well.  Fast fingers are necessary on all woodwinds, but they do not require as much lung and lip strength as brass instruments.