[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 (41–50)
Ave MariaFranz Schubert
While many composers have published their own works titled “Ave Maria” in various forms, the piece by Franz Schubert introduced here is known for its unhurried flow and wistful melody.
Chosen time and again for occasions such as weddings and funerals, it continues to convey a message of hope and love to listeners.
For beginner saxophonists, “Ave Maria” is an ideal piece to develop a wide range of skills—from breath control to expressive phrasing.
Its long, sustained lines produce a beautiful tone and allow the performer’s emotions to be reflected in the music.
Beginners might start by practicing holding long, clean notes, and then gradually explore the breadth of expression this piece offers.
[Saxophone] Recommended practice songs for saxophone beginners. Famous songs you’ll want to try playing (51–60)
Fly Me To The MoonBart Howard
Composed by Bart Howard in 1954, Fly Me To The Moon is a renowned jazz standard.
Frank Sinatra’s 1964 version became associated with NASA’s Apollo program and was even played during the Moon landing.
The song expresses a longing for freedom, adventure, and new beginnings, and its structure makes it approachable for beginner saxophonists.
Start with the basic melody, pay attention to phrasing and articulation, and gradually increase the tempo as you practice.
Using a backing track can also be helpful.
It’s definitely a recommended piece for saxophone beginners who want to step into the world of jazz!
The night fog stings my eyes.Jerome Kern
The jazz standard “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes.” First, try finishing the opening section while making sure the reed doesn’t squeak.
If it’s difficult to give the middle arrangement an improvised feel, it’s fine at first to just add the trills as written in the score.
ConfirmationCharles Parker Jr
Speaking of jazz saxophone, this is the song—the signature work of Charlie Parker, the father of modern jazz sax.
If you play jazz sax, it’s one of the pieces you’ll want to practice.
Many jazz sax players study this tune.
The playing technique is quite different from classical or pop.
The most important thing is to lock into the rhythm.
Take FivePaul Desmond
It’s a very famous piece in 5/4 time, and one many people have heard somewhere.
Some have even been inspired to start playing the saxophone after listening to it.
However, this irregular meter is quite difficult—it alternates between something like 3/4 and 2/4.
That said, it’s also what makes the piece feel so pleasing.
Make sure to really feel the beat.
what do you mean?Justin Bieber
It’s also a song known from the upbeat “What do you mean?” commercial.
For beginner saxophonists, it’s a dream piece you’ll want to practice.
Since it has a catchy, singable feel, make sure to focus on the tempo when practicing it on sax as well.
I’m in love with your eyes.Bob Gaudio
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” is one of those songs that has been loved for a very long time in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Japan.
It suits saxophone solo performances and there are many moving, listener-focused arrangements, but above all it’s a beautiful, familiar tune.
So first, try finishing it in a straightforward way, and then enjoy experimenting with various arrangements from there.
The fact that you can enjoy many different arrangements—and keep using it as a practice piece for a long time—is also part of its charm.