5 Tips For Becoming A Better Saxophonist
Author: David Pope, Guest Contributor
The saxophone remains one of the coolest instruments on the planet for a number of reasons. It’s an instrument with a melodic personality that allows listeners to hear and feel the emotion of its creator’s personality. The versatility of the saxophone allows it to blend effortlessly into nearly any style of music or cut through with an authoritative presence. Accomplished classical and jazz saxophonist, David Pope provides 5 quick tips for becoming a better saxophonist.
Fundamentals - Practice your long tones and scales. Fundamentals are the MOST important thing to practice.
Listen - Listen to music every day. Don’t do anything else while you are listening. Focus on the listening.
Log Your Practice - Log your practice in a journal and reflect on how well you are accomplishing your goals over time.
Keep An Open Mind - Try not to have preferences, especially when you are young. Explore everything with an open mind.
Trust The Integrity of Your Preparation - If you practice well and stick with it, you will eventually play well.
Adding these strategies into your daily practice routine will provide you with further insight as you grow as a saxophonist. Remember to focus on the fundamental aspects of your playing, listen to all types of music while focusing on what you’re hearing, monitor your growth process by analyzing your journal/log and be consistent with practicing. Don’t forget to enjoy… It’s music!
About The Author
David Pope is Professor of Saxophone at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia (appointed 2000). He is an accomplished saxophonist, composer, and author with an international reputation for over one hundred published articles in Saxophone Journal and Saxophone Today. He is a twice-invited member of the faculty of the Asia Pacific Saxophone Academy, Bangkok, Thailand. In 2012, he was named Distinguished Teacher of the College of Visual & Performing Arts at JMU.
www.popesax.com