I was thinking of starting at yamaha myself too, but then I found this guy who teaches part time at his place and decided to try him out. Reason being classes can be flexible, not rigid like a music school. He is a young guy and very talented and friendly, he used to teach in yamaha too.

Yes you really need to get a sax, I bought a used yamaha, still a little pricey but yamaha's are known to produce really good quality sax's, perfect for beginners. Best if you seek advice from the teacher for the recommended sax.

If you're interested to try him out, let me know I'll pass you his contact.