by David Hite
INTRODUCTION
This saxophonist's Study Guide outlines seven levels of study. It can be used to identify a student's level of accomplishment and provides a list of publications for study and performance at each level. Although not complete, these listings constitute a thorough course of study.
Individual progress will, of course, vary greatly, and some students may find it appropriate to work in materials from different levels simultaneously. For remedial work at more advanced levels, slower scales, interval studies and expressive melodic etudes are recommended.
It is important that students realize that careful, thoughtful daily practice is a primary requirement for effective progress. Inspired guidance from a good teacher and good ensemble experiences are vital contributing factors, but in the end the student must do the learning himself!
All music editions listed in the Study Guide are published by:
Southern Music Company, P.O. Box 329, San Antonio, TX 78292, U.S.A. Phone: 1(800) 284-5443
All contents copyright © David Hite, Inc.
Revised: May 24, 1997
Making the first sounds on a musical instrument is quite a thrill. Learning where to put fingers, how to shape and control the mouth muscles and how to put the reed on the mouthpiece are among the very important questions at this formative stage. It is best to take private lessons for individual attention in addition to class lessons at school for ensemble experience. These two learning environments complement each other ideally. A minimum of thirty minutes a day should be devoted to individual practice. In the beginning two fifteen minute sessions are recommended.
It is extremely important to invest in a good mouthpiece for the beginner. Mouthpieces furnished with beginning instruments are not always ideal. A poor or damaged mouthpiece can defeat every effort to play well.
Students should learn early on about proper care of their reeds, mouthpieces and instruments. The mouthpiece and reed should be cleaned, and the neck of the saxophone swabbed after every playing session before storage in the case.
A special note for beginning saxophone students: Most commercial saxophonists play both clarinet and saxophone; many also play flute. Many teachers feel that it is best to learn the clarinet first because it is somewhat difficult to add later. Consultation with an instructor should include consideration of this question.
There are many class and private study saxophone methods available for early study. Personal preference will vary. The class and band methods used by most schools are compatible with methods designed for private study when used simultaneously.
Theory basics Haines & McEntyre
A Saxophonist's Study Guide by David Hite
With the student's advancement into level two, he should begin to feel at home with his instrument. He can begin to focus on how to play music rather than how to play the saxophone. Continue to improve and stabilize tone and technic. Participation in school concerts, solo contests, studio recitals and everyday rehearsals will reinforce these objectives. Daily practicing should be gratifying. As muscle stamina developes, practice time should be increased to forty five minutes a day.
Study and practice in the Melodious and Progressive Studies, Book 1, and in the Forty Progressive Melodies will most likely not be completed on this level. Although significant progress can be made playing these studies a first time, much can be gained by repeating these studies to perfect easy, accurate performance and to give primary attention to elegance of musical expression. While initial study will consume the student's attention in reading notes and maintaining accurate rhythm and tempo. later more attention may be placed on dynamics, subtleties of musical style and creating a musical mood. It is best not to rush learning at this stage; take the time to settle into the musical meat of this material. This process will make music in the following levels much easier to grasp.
As his basic theoretical background expands, the student should begin to study music carefully before playing. More will be achieved during practice periods with this thoughtful advanced preparation.
Theory basics
A Saxophonist's Study Guide by David Hite
With progress through level three comes a real sense of accomplishment. The player should become a good, competent member of the
saxophone section in the school band. An interest in stage band or ensemble music could be
developing. One hour a day practice sessions should be routine, and as a result,
the fingers should become totally comfortable in the patterns of the most
used keys.
The activities that support continued development should be cultivated.
Reeds should be carefully selected for vibrancy, response, tonal clarity
and good dynamic range. Playing on old worn out reeds should be avoided.
At least three well adjusted, broken in reeds should be maintained at all times.
If the alto saxophone has been the primary instrument up to this point, consideration might be given to playing tenor or baritone saxophone. If possible, a personal mouthpiece for the additional instrument(s) should be purchased. Care should be taken to select mouthpieces with a matched feel to avoid the necessity of severe embouchure changes when changing instruments.
Theory basics
A Saxophonist's Study Guide by David Hite
While working through level four, the opportunity for many performance responsibilities should emerge:
auditions for solo chair positions at school, solo and ensemble
contests, scholarship auditions, talent shows, and solos in band and orchestra concerts. Summer enrichment programs, music festivals
and regional band-orchestra chairs should be pursued.
Continuation of private study is important to effectively focus on
detailed preparations for solo appearances, contests and auditions. If
possible, a professional level instrument should be obtained to attain the best
in sound, intonation and technique. An interest in mouthpieces, better
reeds and the skill of adjusting reeds should continue to evolve.
More extensive listening habits should be developed. Following
good music radio stations, learning the classical orchestral repertoire,
learning about great composers, and identifying music periods and jazz styles
will cultivate high performance standards and ambitions.
Theory basics
A Saxophonist's Study Guide by David Hite
The student advancing through level five is seriously dedicated to the saxophone. In many high schools there is very little competition on this level.
However, all-city and all-state ensembles offer unique learning and performance experiences that provide lifelong memories.
College music students on this level will find new motivation by associating with
capable colleagues and participating in more mature performing groups. Soloing in recitals
and with ensembles brings special artistic self identity. Opportunities for professional work in the locale should be sought.
Career plans should be contemplated at this level in order to give more
specific direction to immediate goals. Consideration should be given to opportunities
in commercial studios, service bands and educational institutions.
Professional engagements should be sought. Depending on individual interests, study
of other woodwind doubles might be pursued at this point.
Subscriptions to the North American Saxophone Alliance periodical (c/o David Lovrien, 2232 Bowie Dr., Carrollton, TX 75006) and the Saxophone Journal (P.O. Box 206, Medfield, MA 02052) provide additional insight into the saxophone world.
All rights reserved.
URL: http://www.jdhite.com/study/clarinet-p.htm
A Saxophonist's Study Guide by David HiteLEVEL 1
Technique basics
LEVEL 1 STUDY MATERIAL
Hovey, Nilo
Rubank Elementary Method
Skornika, J.E.
Rubank Intermediate Method
Herfurth, C. Paul
A Tune a Day, Books 1, 2 and 3
Division of Beat, Books 1A, 1B and 2
LEVEL 1 REPERTOIRE
FOR ALTO SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO
Burkhardt, Joel Chanson Haydn-Wienandt Serenade Hinton-Howard Laverne
FOR TENOR SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO
Hinton-Howard Laverne Houlik, James Two Lyric Pieces
LEVEL 2
Technique basics
LEVEL 2 STUDY MATERIAL
Hite, David
Foundation Studies
Contents:
Baermann Method, Part III
This volume serves as a lifelong daily study book which can be used to solve nearly every technical problem the saxophonist will encounter. "How to practice" routines
and general advice sections are included.
Hite, David
Melodious and Progressive Studies, Book 1
Contents:
This popular study book contains musical, progressive style studies. These studies extend to four sharps and four flats in major and minor keys, using basic time
signatures, rhythms and articulations.
Hite, David
40 Progressive Melodies by A.M.R. Barret
Contents:
The Barret melodies are wonderful studies for melodic phrasing. They include an
accompaniment for a second saxophone to emphasize the development of rhythmic
independence, intonation, balance and flexible tonal concepts. Later, these studies can be used as transposition exercises. The Cont exercises provide daily exercise for the tongue. This book can be used with or following the
Melodious and Progressive Studies, Book 1.
LEVEL 2 REPERTOIRE
FOR ALTO SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO
Giovannini, Caesar
Romance
Haydn-Voxman
Adagio Cantabile and Presto
Hoffman, Earl
In Modo di Trentotto
Loeillet-Merriman
Sonata, Op. 4, No. 9
Mahler-Hemke
A Ruckert Song
FOR TENOR SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO
Karel, Leon
Hexaphon
Karel, Leon
Quintra
McClain, Floyd
A Little Joke
Schwartz, G. W.
International Folk Suite
SAXOPHONE DUETS
Barret-Hite
Forty Progressive Melodies
LEVEL 3
Technique basics
LEVEL 3 STUDY MATERIAL
Hite, David
Foundation Studies
Contents: Baermann Method, Part III
Continuing work in this volume, the familiar scales should begin to flow accurately. The tonic chords, broken chords and dominant seventh chords, and the interrupted
and returning scales should flow well. The four sharps and four flats keys should be routine.
Hite, David
Melodious and Progressive Studies, Book 1
Contents: (See level II)
Continued study in this book should develop good reading and style fluency. Efforts
to stabilize a beautiful sound should be pursued carefully before approaching etudes
requiring greater speed. Sensitivity to dynamics and tonal flexibility should be
stressed and developed at this time.
Hite, David
Melodious and Progressive Studies, Book 2
Contents:
While refining the slower Nocentini and Baermann etudes of Book 1, it is well to begin practicing these Gambaro studies for finger and tongue dexterity. The key signatures
of these etudes stay within three sharps and three flats so that these scale and chord patterns can be totally mastered. The studies for extra work in specialized areas - tongue, speed, chromatics, trills, etc. - can be approached as needed.
Hite, David
Forty Progressive Melodies by A.M.R. Barret
plus Eight Progressive Exercises by Dont
Continued use of this volume can constitute recreational playing, giving vent to imaginative phrasing style with slight variation each time these studies are played. When the studies have been securely mastered, a teacher or friend can add the second part, helping to develop rhythmic independence and dynamic balance.
LEVEL 3 REPERTOIRE
FOR ALTO SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO
Bach-Leeson
Air (Suite in D Major)
Bournonville-Gee
Danse pour Katia
Cailliet, Lucien
Theme and Variations
Glazunov-Leeson
Serenade Espagnole
Handel-Gee
Adagio and Allegro (Sonata No. 1)
Pierne-Gee
Serenade, Op. 7
Reed, Alfred
Ballade
Vadala, Kathleen
Sea Change
Walters, David
Episode
FOR TENOR SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO
Blavet-Merriman
Adagio and Presto (1983)
Handel-Gee
Adagio and Allegro (Sonata No. 1)
Loeillet-Voxman-Block
Adagio and Allergro
Pierne-Gee
Piece in G Minor
Ross, William
Aria and Dance
Vadala, Kathleen
Sea Change
FOR BARITONE SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO
Davis, William
Variations on a Theme of R. Schumann
Giovannini, Caesar
Romance
LEVEL 4
Technique basics
LEVEL 4 STUDY MATERIAL
Hite, David
Foundation Studies
Contents: Baermann Method, Part III
Practice should extend into the intervals of thirds, fourths and fifths. Work on the
scales, chords, interrupted scales and returning scales in five and six sharps and flats, as well
as chromatic scales and diminished chords should be in progress. Keys of four sharps and four flats should now be well routined.
Hite, David
Melodious and Progressive Studies, Book
2
Contents: (See level III)
Continuing study should encompass all the Gambaro studies in advanced speeds. The Dont etudes develop dexterity in larger
intervals requiring not only finger coordination, but also eye and ear coordination for
tonal consistency. The expressive etudes should be analyzed so that they can be played with consummate style. The tonguing exercises strengthen the tongue and increase staccato speed and clarity, while the trill and chromatic studies promote finger dexterity.
Hite, David
Four Sonatas by A.M.R. Barret and
Five Melodious Studies by D. Alard
Study of these three movement Barret
Sonatas focuses on refinement of
musicianship, accuracy of reading and stability of performance. Intermediate in difficulty, they
can supplement the Melodious and Progressive Studies, Book
2, and are also appropriate for concert performance. The Alard studies provide a solid review of technique and
articulation.
Rossari-Iasilli
53 Melodious Etudes, Book 1, No. 1-25
Thesse supplementary studies develop routine, accurate reading in major and minor keys up to four sharps and four flats.
Gee, Harry
Progressive and Varied Etudes
Contents:
This volume broadens and varies the practice options. Scales and chords are classified and drilled, and practice routines are suggested. Jazz style etudes are introduced.
LEVEL 4 REPERTOIRE
FOR ALTO SAXOPHONE ALONE
Kawarsky, J.
Te' Amim
FOR ALTO SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO
Anderson-Leeson
Sonata, No. 1
Bozza-Hite
Divertissement
Colin-Cailliet
Eighth Solo
George, T.R.
Introduction and Dance
Von Kreisler, A.
Two Impressions
Leclair-Gorner-
HemkeSonata in G Minor
Lefebvre-Cailliet
Andante and Allegro
Senaille-Gee
Allegro Spiritoso
Walters, David
Andante and Scherzo
Ward-Hemke
An Abstract
Wetzel, Richard
Vignettes of a Fable Land
FOR TENOR SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO
Anderson-Leeson
Sonata
Bach-Gee
Sonata IV
Devienne-Jaeckel
Largo and Allegretto (Sonata No. 2)
Handel-Gee
Andante and Allegro
Handel-Ephross
Sonata No. 5
Senaille-Ephross
Allegro Spiritoso
Spohr-Gee
Adagio
Walters, David
Andante and Scherzo
FOR BARITONE SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO
Senaille-Gee
Allegro Spiritoso
Spears, Jared
Ritual and Celebration
DUET FOR ALTO AND TENOR SAXOPHONES
Tull, Fisher
Dialogue
DUETS FOR ALTO OR TENOR SAXOPHONES
Hite, David
Four Sonatas by A.M.R. Barret and
Five Melodious Studies by D. Alard
LEVEL 5
Technique basics
Theory basics
LEVEL 5 STUDY MATERIAL | |
Ferling-Andraud | 48 Famous Studies and 3 Duo Concertants |
Standard in most teaching curriculums, these studies are excellent for refinement of style and technique. To play the duets and the Trio, Op. 87, by Beethoven included in this volume, it is necessary to buy a separate book for the second part. |
|
Rossari-Iasilli | 53 Melodious Etudes, Book II, No. 26-53 |
Like the first volume, these etudes are excellent reading material providing the opportunity to digress from usual practice fare and to self examine accuracy and impromptu style. |
|
LEVEL 5 REPERTOIRE | |
FOR SOPRANO SAXOPHONE ALONE | |
Kawarsky,J. | Awake, North Wind |
FOR ALTO SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO | |
Anderson, Garland | Sonata, No. 2 |
Anderson, T.J. | Sonata, No. 1 |
George, T.R. | Suite |
Knight-Leeson | Sonata |
Lacome-Andraud |
Rigaudon |
Leeson, Cecil | Concertino |
Leeson, Cecil | Sonata, No. 1 |
Lunde-Leeson | Sonata |
Moritz-Leeson | Sonata, No. 1, Opus 96 |
Pierne-Gee | Canzonetta |
Rabuad-Gee | Solo de Concours |
R.-Korsakoff- Leeson |
Flight of the Bumble Bee |
Schubert-Leeson | L'Abeille (The Bee) |
Schumann-Hemke | Three Romances |
Snyder-Hemke | Seven Epigrams |
Tuthill-Leeson | Sonata, Opus 20 |
FOR TENOR SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO | |
Devienne-Jaeckel | Adagio and Rondo |
Lacome-Andraud | Rigaudon |
Pasquale-Hemke | Sonata |
Pierne-Gee | Canzonetta |
Sherman-Leeson | Sonata |
Stein-Leeson | Sonata |
Tuthill-Leeson | Concerto, Opus 50 |
Tuthill-Leeson | Sonata, Opus 56 (1968) |
Weiner, Lawrence | Etude |
FOR BARITONE SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO | |
Bach-Kasprzyk | Suite, No. 1 |
Bach-Kasprzyk | Suite, No. 3 |
Bach-Kasprzyk | Suite, No. 4 |
A Saxophonist's Study Guide by David Hite
At level six a commitment to continuous refinement of artistic style and tone should be made. Career plans may be leading to the field of education in either the public schools or college level, or to self-employment as a performing musician and private teacher.
On this level it is important to broaden personal tastes in music - not only music for saxophone, but also music for other woodwinds, brass, strings, keyboard, voice and ensembles. General music education should encompass the study of both classical and jazz history, theory, conducting and education.
In metropolitan areas various professional playing opportunities can be obtained through local music contractors. The musicians' union paper announces auditions for open positions.
Theory basics
LEVEL 6 STUDY MATERIAL | |
Hite, David | Foundation Studies Contents: Baermann Method, Part III |
These studies may now be used as a daily warm-up or as a test for new reeds. Use them for maintaining the sharpness of basic technique. They can be employed in making small embouchure changes or developing flexibility or endurance. These Baermann studies are an excellent place to learn to refine mobility over large intervals and legato flow at all dynamics. |
|
Devienne-Andraud | Six Sonatas |
These sonatas provide excellent material for reading fluency in the classic style. |
|
Karg-Elert-Lerner | Twenty-Five Caprices |
Through these Caprices (plus an atonal sonata), the composer attempted to raise the level of musical expression of the saxophone above the limited scope of the time, 1915-1929. Each Caprice is a different dance form. The harmonic vocabulary is advanced, relating to all major and minor keys and various modes. This quality material is well worth study, analysis and practice. |
|
Parisi-Iasilli | 40 Technical and Melodious Studies, Bk II |
These etudes explore the virtuosic spectrum of technique in mid-nineteenth century style. They offer a challenge that can be met with a variety of objectives: reading fluency at an advanced level; effective review of nineteenth century style; maintenance of articulate sharpness. |
|
LEVEL 6 REPERTOIRE | |
FOR ALTO SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO | |
Anderson, Garland | Adagio |
Beall, John | Sonata |
Cho, Gene J. | Sonata, 1971 |
Demersseman-Hemke | Le Carnaval de Venise |
Karlins, M. William | Music for Alto Saxophone and Piano (utilizes expanded pitch range) |
Mason, Thom David | Canzone da Sonar, 1974 |
Moritz, Edvard | Sonata, No. 2, Opus 103 |
Raphling, Sam | Sonata, No. 1, 1945 |
Thornton, William | Sonata, 1987 |
Weinberger, Jaromir | Concerto, 1940 |
FOR TENOR SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO | |
Karlins, M. William | Music for Tenor Saxophone and Piano |
FOR BARITONE SAXOPHONE WITH PIANO | |
Anderson, Garland | Sonata, Opus 6 |
FOR ALTO SAXOPHONE WITH BRASS QUINTET | |
Tull, Fisher | Concerto da Camera |
A Saxophonist's Study Guide by David Hite
Formal study of the saxophone culminates at this level. Special interests such as contemporary styles, artistic study abroad or special research are possibilities at this point.
Some career objectives may have specific prerequisites. For example, teaching at the college level requires graduate study. Graduate assistantships with a modest stipend can provide experience in teaching undergraduate students while pursuing a graduate degree tuition-free. A secondary specialty field such as music history, theory or conducting is often useful. Many small to medium size college teaching situations offer the opportunity to combine self-generated sources of income such as teaching, playing, contracting and recording.
Professional performance experience is generally required for the top college positions. Universities that offer graduate degrees usually require that their faculty members have doctoral degrees in addition to an artistic performance background. After settling into a performing or teaching position and gaining recognition, clinician-soloist engagements may be pursued to enrich basic employment.
LEVEL 7 REPERTOIRE | |
Creston, Paul | Concerto |
Creston, Paul | Sonata, Opus 19 |
Debussy, Claude | Rhapsody |
Glazunov, Alexander | Concerto in Eb |
Ibert, Jacque | Concertino da Camera |
Milhaud, Darius | Scaramouche Suite |
Wilder, Alec | Sonata |