[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 tunes you’ll want to play (31–40)
Detective Conan Main ThemeŌno Katsuo
Detective Conan, a Japanese anime that is still on the air, has many fans.
Its main theme is an indispensable anisong so closely associated with the saxophone that it’s always mentioned, and it’s a piece every sax player wants to play coolly at least once.
Katsuo Ōno, who performs this piece, has provided many songs for Kenji Sawada and also played in his backing band, releasing numerous hits in Japan.
Let’s aim to play it with enough style that you can almost hear Conan’s famous line, “There’s only one truth!”
Jesu, Joy of Man’s DesiringJ.S.Bach
This is a church cantata believed to have been composed by Bach in 1723 for the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The beautiful chorale is one of the musical elements that has been passed down to the present day as part of our musical DNA.
True to his epithet “the father of music,” Bach stands at the very origin of sound itself.
Experience that sound through the voice of the saxophone.
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
“Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” is a 19th-century spiritual song that carries a message symbolizing hope and freedom amid the hardships of slavery.
The piece reflects African American experiences and spirit, and its historical and cultural significance is immeasurable.
For beginner saxophonists, this song is well-suited for practicing basic range and rhythm.
Incorporating a call-and-response format also helps performers develop musical improvisation and empathy.
Playing it on the alto saxophone in particular aids breath control and phrasing, and practicing with video tutorials can deepen one’s appreciation of the piece.
Why not take on this song as a way to discover the joy of saxophone performance while engaging with history?
Moon RiverHenry Mancini
Composed by Henry Mancini with lyrics by Johnny Mercer, “Moon River” is famous for its use in the 1961 film Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Its flowing melody stirs the soul, and the lyrics delicately portray a longing for unknown adventures and the heart of a dreamer.
For beginning saxophonists, the song’s gentle tempo and melodic line make it ideal for training.
While it requires mastering fundamental techniques—from breath control to tonal beauty—it is well worth the challenge.
And when you can express the elegance of “Moon River” on the saxophone, a new door to music will surely open.
With this wistful melody, delve even deeper into the allure of the saxophone.
You’ve Got A Friend In Me / You Are My FriendRandy Newman
A song I’d recommend to saxophone beginners is “You’ve Got a Friend in Me,” released by Randy Newman in 1995.
As the theme song of the film Toy Story, it has captured many hearts and conveyed the importance of friendship.
Its simple, memorable melody is perfect for beginners, and while it includes elements of jazz, it also makes a wonderful practice piece for saxophonists aiming for a warm tone.
In particular, for those who have just picked up the alto sax, this song offers an excellent opportunity to refine tone and phrasing.
Why not try expressing the warmth of friendship on the saxophone through this piece, inspired by Randy Newman’s heartfelt voice and piano?
[Saxophone] Recommended practice pieces for sax beginners: Famous songs you’ll want to try playing (41–50)
Titanic’s theme, “My Heart Will Go On”Céline Dion
It’s the theme song from the global hit film Titanic.
Almost everyone has heard its beautiful melody at least once, and that melodic line is something you’ll definitely want to try on the saxophone.
Since it’s so famous, many sheet music editions feature simplified arrangements, making it a good choice for beginners.
Be sure to play the long tones in the chorus lyrically and with plenty of emotion!
Moonlight SerenadeGlenn Miller
Glenn Miller’s classic “Moonlight Serenade” is another piece that has long been popular and continues to be loved.
Jazz pairs wonderfully with the saxophone, and it has great vibe not only when played coolly on tenor or baritone sax, but also when sung out on soprano sax—not just alto.
Because of this, there are many scores and performances with various arrangements, but first, try to finish it so you can play it straight without embellishments.
Eventually, being able to play it in a saxophone ensemble will make it even more enjoyable.