Saxophone 3B

About this course

The course develops saxophone technique, musicianship and theoretical understanding through structured work on scales, harmony and chord sequences. Repertoire includes jazz standards, with attention to the saxophone’s role in popular and contemporary music. Teaching combines tutor demonstrations, section playing, soloing, tune learning and saxophone ensemble work. Participants also work on tone, volume, intonation, written ensemble parts and improvisation over chord sequences, including playing without written music.

What you'll learn

• Demonstrate improved control of saxophone tone, volume and intonation
• Play written parts in saxophone ensemble arrangements
• Improvise over given chord sequences with and without written music
• Memorise and perform study tunes
• Recognise essential chord sequences and explain the related theory

Is this course right for you?

Listed as Improver and described as intermediate, the course is intended for players developing beyond foundational saxophone work. The provider ideally expects completion of Saxophone 3A, with improvising experience helpful, and specifies existing knowledge of scales, chord notes, articulation and a two-octave chromatic scale.

• Saxophone 3A is described as the ideal preceding course.
• Improvising experience is helpful but is not stated as required.
• Participation includes both saxophone ensemble playing and individual soloing.

Before you go

• Regular practice on the instrument between classes is essential.
• A saxophone tutor book may need to be purchased on the tutor’s advice.
• Additional course resources remain available through Google Classroom.