[Saxophone] Recommended practice songs for saxophone beginners: Famous tunes you’ll want to try playing
When it comes to star instruments that shine across genres from jazz and classical to pop, the saxophone surely comes to mind.
Whether it’s the tenor sax or the alto sax, many people have been inspired by the sight of someone masterfully playing sax in a band or ensemble and thought, “I want to give it a try too.” Some may first encounter the instrument after joining a school wind band.
In this article, we introduce recommended practice pieces for brand-new saxophonists who are ready to start working on songs, regardless of genre.
These are all famous tunes with plenty of beginner-friendly sheet music available, and if you can perform even a bit of a melody everyone knows, you’re sure to bring down the house with applause! Take a look.
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[Saxophone] Recommended practice pieces for sax beginners: Famous songs you’ll want to try playing (81–90)
Aura Lee / Love Me TenderElvis Persley
“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.
HEROMariah Carey
This is also a piece that’s often performed at weddings, so I’d love for you to practice it and master it on the saxophone.
It’s a truly grand and uplifting classic, so I want you to play it slowly and with feeling.
If you can pull this one off, it might mean you’ve improved quite a lot.
moonlightLudwig van Beethoven
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,” 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
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.