Easy Alto Saxophone Jams for Beginners! 🎶🎷 

If you’re just starting your sax journey and itching to play some tunes, you’re in luck. We’ve curated the top 5 easy saxophone songs perfect for beginners. Whether you fancy jazz, pop, or classical, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your sax, warm up those reeds, and let’s make some music! Before we get into playing these songs, let’s address an essential skill: reading music. Understanding the basics of reading sheet music can open up a world of musical possibilities and enhance your playing experience. In this quick guide, we’ll walk you through the fundamentals of reading music specifically tailored to beginner saxophonists.  

Quick guide to learn to read music in 5 mins: 

Understanding the Staff: 

• The staff consists of five horizontal lines representing different notes. 
• Each line and space corresponds to a specific pitch. 

Treble Clef: 

• Saxophonists typically use the treble clef, denoted by a fancy “G.” 
• It indicates higher register notes within the saxophone’s range. 

Note Names: 

• Notes on the lines (E, G, B, D, F) and spaces (FACE) represent specific pitches. 

Reading Notes: 

• Notes on the staff indicate pitch. 
• Match note positions with saxophone fingerings. 

Duration: 

• Note shapes represent duration. 
• Learn whole notes, half notes, quarter notes, and rests. 

  By the end of this five-minute video, you’ll have a solid grasp of the essentials, allowing you to start playing simple melodies and tunes confidently.     

1. Fly me to the moon on Alto Saxophone:

Fly Me to the Moon is a classic jazz standard written by Bart Howard in 1954. Originally titled “In Other Words,” the song gained popularity after being recorded by Frank Sinatra in 1964. Since then, it has been covered by numerous artists and has become a beloved jazz standard.  One of the reasons “Fly Me to the Moon” is beginner-friendly for saxophonists is its relatively simple melody and chord structure. The song primarily consists of straightforward melodic lines with few technical challenges, making it accessible for beginners to learn and play. Additionally, its slow tempo allows beginners to focus on phrasing, tone production, and musical expression without feeling overwhelmed by complex rhythms or fast passages.  The song’s melody is catchy and memorable, making it a great choice for saxophonists who are just starting.      

2. Careless Whisper by George Michael on Alto Saxophone: 

Careless Whisper is a classic pop ballad written by George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, released in 1984 as part of George Michael’s debut solo album, “Make It Big.” The song’s iconic saxophone riff, played by Steve Gregory, has become instantly recognizable and has contributed to its enduring popularity.  The captivating saxophone riff that has earned it a special place in music history. Beyond its popularity, “Careless Whisper” is highly recommended for beginners due to its melodic simplicity and expressive qualities. Learning to play this piece not only introduces saxophonists to a timeless classic but also helps develop fundamental skills such as breath control, finger dexterity, and tone production.   

3. Ain’t no Sunshine on Alto Saxophone:  

Back in 1971, Bill Withers penned a soulful classic that has managed to stay with us through the years. Its raw emotion and captivating melody have a way of tugging at the heartstrings.  The lyrics are simple yet powerful, touching on themes of longing and heartache that strike a chord with listeners on a deep level. While “Ain’t No Sunshine” has been covered by many artists across different genres, it’s Withers’ original version that really steals the spotlight.  The song’s stripped-down arrangement, with Withers’ soulful vocals accompanied by minimal instrumentation, lets the emotion of the lyrics take center stage. And let’s not forget about that unforgettable saxophone solo! It adds an extra layer of soul to the already emotive atmosphere of the song.  This solo, often heard over the repeated refrain of “I know, I know, I know,” is a true masterclass in expression and phrasing. For saxophonists looking to fine-tune their skills, learning this solo is an absolute must.      

4. The Girl From Ipanema on Alto Saxophone:  

Let’s transport ourselves to the sun-kissed shores of Brazil with “The Girl From Ipanema” This classic bossa nova tune, composed by Antônio Carlos Jobim, has been stealing hearts since 1964. Picture this: a gentle breeze, the sound of waves, and the captivating melody of “The Girl From Ipanema” floating in the air. It’s a song that paints a vivid picture of beauty and charm, telling the story of a young woman who turns heads as she walks through the streets of Ipanema.  For new saxophonists, “The Girl From Ipanema” is like stepping into a musical adventure. Its smooth melody and laid-back bossa nova rhythm invite you to explore your instrument with every note. Whether you’re just starting out or curious about jazz, this song is a great place to begin. It introduces you to the captivating world of Brazilian jazz while highlighting the soulful sound of the saxophone.      

5. Happy by Pharrell on alto Saxophone:  

Happy by Pharrell Williams, released in 2013, became an instant hit worldwide, known for its infectious melody and upbeat rhythm. The song was featured in the animated film “Despicable Me 2” and quickly became a global anthem for happiness and positivity. With its catchy groove and feel-good lyrics, the song has remained a favorite among audiences of all ages.  When learning to play the saxophone, it should be both enjoyable and rewarding. Opting for tunes like Happy can definitely add to the fun! Its lively melody and upbeat rhythm make practicing feel like a breeze. Plus, as you progress and master this cheerful song, the sense of accomplishment will keep you motivated to keep improving.  The technical aspects of this song also make it an excellent choice for beginner saxophonists. Its simple melody is relatively straightforward and easy to grasp, making it accessible for beginners to learn and play on the saxophone. Additionally, the song features a repetitive structure, allowing beginners to focus on mastering specific phrases and patterns. These elements, combined with its moderate tempo and uplifting vibe, create a supportive learning environment that facilitates skill development and enjoyment.     

Play Along with Backing Tracks on the Travel Sax 🎷

Don’t forget, if you own a Travel Sax, you have the fantastic option to play along with a backing track. The Travel Sax’s portable design doesn’t limit its musical capabilities; instead, it amplifies them, enabling spontaneous melodies wherever you go. 👇🏼👇🏼     As we wrap up, it’s clear that learning to play the saxophone can be an exciting and rewarding adventure. Throughout this blog, we’ve explored a variety of fantastic tunes tailored for beginner saxophonists, spanning from timeless jazz classics to today’s chart-topping hits. Each song carries its own special allure, providing valuable chances for honing skills and expressing musicality along the way.      Explore more content!

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  Happy reading!    Odisei Music Team  🎷