Saxophone
A Brief History And Implementation
My History
How It All Began
Although clarinet was my principle instrument in the army band, a close second was saxophone .
I was also called upon to play the saxophone in ensembles such as the saxophone quartet and dance bands (when not being used on guitar), and so developed the skills necessary to become a very competent player.
Upon leaving the army, I played the saxophone as part of my wedding package, as well as for my own enjoyment and I also started to teach it for the North Yorkshire Music Service, as well as in a private capacity.
Lessons
What is involved
As with the clarinet and flute, I use a series of books called “Look, Listen & Learn Method for Saxophone” by Jacob de Haan (published by DeHaske). These books are a guide from absolute beginner through to about Grade 5-6 standard and have fantastic backing tracks that make the playing of the instrument with accompaniment, fun! They also help to teach the basics of improvisation and allow the student to develop their skills, something that I have not seen elsewhere in study books.
The lessons are focused on notation reading, improvisation, good technique, as well as the basics of improvisation.
Exams are taken using either ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal School of Music) or Trinity College, whichever is preferred.
