[Saxophone] Recommended practice songs for saxophone beginners: Famous tunes you’ll want to try playing

The Olive NecklacePaul Mauriat

Nagahama Jazz Band - The Olive Necklace 11.mpg

The tune known for its use as background music in magic shows, “El Bimbo,” is also one of the pieces often played on tenor sax.

It’s perfect for sultry, mood-rich improvisation practice, so it’s great to gradually loosen it up and finish it in your own style.

moonlightLudwig van Beethoven

Moonlight Sonata for Saxophone Quartet

Even on the saxophone, when you get tired of jazz or pop, it might be fun to play classical pieces like Beethoven on the sax.

As you get used to it through practice, you’ll find joy in savoring the beauty of Beethoven’s melodies not just on the piano, but on the saxophone as well—so give it a try.

Sweet MemoriesMatsuda Seiko

SWEET MEMORIES // Seiko Matsuda (Alto Sax Cover Sheet Music Transcription & Solo) [With Sheet Music]

“Sweet Memories,” a masterpiece by Seiko Matsuda, is extremely popular as a saxophone solo piece.

Many people probably aspire to play it this well, but first fully master the main theme without adding any arrangements, and then try tackling the ad-lib-like section in the middle.

Sing, Sing, SingLouis Prima

SING, SING, SING — Nobuo Hara and The Sharps & Flats

The big band classic ‘Sing, Sing, Sing’ is a crowd-pleaser at school festivals.

It’s a standard that even beginner saxophonists can admire as a dream piece.

With its catchy, upbeat feel, it’s also perfect for concerts.

Love’s GreetingEdward Elgar

Ai Okumura – Salut d’Amour

This piece is frequently performed in many settings and is often played on the violin.

Because it contains many wide intervals, it is also a difficult piece for violinists.

Within classical music, it’s a well-known work, and it sounds impressive on the saxophone as well—without becoming as technically demanding as it is on the violin—something performers appreciate.

The House of the Rising Sun / The House Where the Morning Sun Shines

House of the Rising Sun – Saxophone Music

“The House of the Rising Sun” is a historic song whose profound story and emotionally rich melody continue to captivate many listeners.

In particular, the version released by The Animals in 1964 became an international hit with its innovative arrangement that weaves rock elements into a folk song.

Set in the iconic New Orleans location known as the “House of the Rising Sun,” the song portrays a life of downfall and the search for redemption, prompting deep reflection on life’s choices and their consequences.

For beginner saxophonists, its wistful melody offers a wonderful opportunity to broaden expressive range and take on the challenge of playing with emotion.

Part of Your WorldAlan Menken

Alto Sax – Part of Your World – Disney’s The Little Mermaid – Sheet Music, Vocal, & Chords

Alan Menken, a master of musical and film music, moved audiences around the world through the song “Part of Your World” from the film The Little Mermaid.

Born in 1949, he has contributed numerous beloved songs to classic Disney animations, and the success of The Little Mermaid marked a major turning point in his career.

This song movingly portrays Ariel’s deep longing for the human world that everyone dreams of.

For beginner saxophonists, it’s a perfect opportunity to learn about beautiful melody and expressive phrasing.

By taking on the piece with an alto saxophone, you can fully appreciate its appealing mid-range while also building fundamental playing skills.

There are many beginner-friendly sheet music editions available, so give it a try!