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

Full of SunNino Rota

Full of Sun

The theme song from the film Purple Noon starring Alain Delon.

It’s a somewhat melancholy piece that evokes the final scene of the movie.

Because it doesn’t rely heavily on technique, it’s often chosen as a practice piece for beginners.

However, precisely because it doesn’t use many techniques, issues like pitch waver during breaths, the reed squeaking, or unstable intonation will stand out, so take your time and practice carefully.

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.

My Dear EllieKUWATA BAND

Beloved Ellie COVER by Uru

Known as one of Southern All Stars’ signature songs, this work is a gemlike ballad that sings of a bittersweet love.

Released as the band’s first ballad single, it marked an adventurous departure from their previously cheerful, comedic image and pointed to a new direction.

Released in March 1979, the song’s lyrics—expressing deep affection and compassion for a loved one—captured many hearts and have remained cherished for years.

It also gained popularity as the theme song for the TBS drama “Fuzoroi no Ringo-tachi” (“Uneven Apples”), and became a key track that propelled Southern All Stars to superstardom.

With a melody line that’s easy even for beginners to pick up, it’s also recommended as a practice piece.

Part of Your WorldAlan Menken

Part of Your World (Tenor Sax Solo) The Little Mermaid WMT-13-007

The Disney film The Little Mermaid was released on November 17, 1989.

In Japan, it premiered on July 21, 1990.

It was adapted for the stage in 2008 and performed as a musical on Broadway, and in Japan it has been performed by the Shiki Theatre Company since 2013—proof that it’s a song loved all around the world.

Many Disney fans say this is their favorite song.

Try expressing the underwater world with the saxophone.

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.

Aura Lee / Love Me TenderElvis Persley

Elvis Presley – Love Me Tender | Sax Cover | Alexandra Ilieva | Thomann

“Aura Lee (Love Me Tender)” is a piece often included in saxophone practice collections.

It’s very easy to play and familiar to the ear, so you’ll likely improve quickly.

First, finish it straight without any embellishments, then try adding your own personal touches.

My Funny ValentineMiles Davis

Miles Davis – My Funny Valentine 1964 Milan, Italy

Known for Miles Davis’s trumpet performance, this piece is a quintessential jazz standard.

Its richly expressive melodic lines and wistful atmosphere are distinctive, giving it a deep, resonant appeal for listeners.

A live recording made in New York in February 1964 was released the following May as the album “My Funny Valentine: Miles Davis in Concert,” earning high praise among jazz fans.

It’s also approachable for beginning saxophonists, who can enjoy practicing its relaxed tempo and beautiful harmonies.

Perform this song, imbued with an adult sophistication, and you’re sure to captivate your audience.