Learn the Basics: SAXOPHONE
π΅π· This class is designed specifically for students brand new to the saxophone. The course covers the essential basics of learning the saxophone so that your child can be ready to join school band with confidence.
Rachel Hardman
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(37)
What's included
6 live meetings
3 in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. It is expected that students do personal practice on the saxophone between the classes to master the skills being taught. This is the best way for success in a short amount of time on the instrument.Class Experience
US Grade 4 - 6
Beginner Level
π΅π· This course is specifically designed for the total beginner to the saxophone. During the 6 session course, students will learn all the essential skills needed to join school band in the new school year and have a confident and successful start. We will cover the basics of assembling the saxophone and using the instrument correctly. We will cover how to assemble the reed onto the mouthpiece and how to make a great sound. We will cover the notes of the basic notes of the saxophone and those that band students learn in the first year of band classes. We will learn how the notes are drawn on the stave, how this relates to the instrument and then play some simple pieces that allows the student to master these basic skills. Lessons will be fun and fast paced with an expectation that students do personal practice outside of the classroom to experiment and master the skills taught in class. The lessons will be practical and the goal is for students to play the instruments for the majority of the lesson time. Notes and work booklets will be provided. Students must have access to an alto or tenor saxophone and have good reeds prior to enrolling for the class. I am happy to give parents guidance on what instruments and reeds to buy if needed. You will need to ensure that the audio is set to "Audio for Musicians on" in the audio settings of zoom for each class for the best audio for class.
Syllabus
6 Lessons
over 6 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to the Saxophone
How to assemble the saxophone safely.
Good practice and care for your instrument.
How to hold the instrument, add the reed and make your first sound! Learn your first few notes! 30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Making a sound and first notes.
How to hold the saxophone correctly and the importance of the reed.
Good finger / hand placement for the left hand.
Using the strap correctly
Learning how to play the first 3 notes on the saxophone - BAG. Learning to play simple pieces using those notes. 30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
How to use the reed correctly for making a good sound
Learning to tongue the notes correctly.
Learning C and F.
Reading notes and playing simple music. 30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Reading and playing beginner songs for the saxophone
Playing songs with the first 5 notes on the saxophone.
How to read beat values and notes. 30 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Pre-Requisites
Students must have access to a saxophone at home for the classes and to practice on. They should also have suitable reeds - ideally 2.0 or 2.5 Vandoren or Rico to make a great sound.
Supply List
Alto or Tenor saxophone Reeds Good audio settings on zoom.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined February, 2023
5.0
37reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Non-US Teaching Certificate in Music/Theater/Arts
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Education from Open University, UK
Bachelor's Degree in Music or Theatre or Arts from University of Salford, UK
I have 25 years of classroom and band teaching at an international level. I have a degree in music and a masters in education. I have run many successful school bands and helped hundreds of young musicians start their musical careers.Reviews
Live Group Course
$100
for 6 classes1x per week, 6 weeks
30 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-14
2-9 learners per class
