Saxophone Songbooks: Top 10 Books

Saxophone Songbooks: Enhance Your Sax Playing

For saxophonists at any level, finding the right resources can make all the difference. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to polish your skills, the right saxophone songbooks can be a game-changer. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 saxophone songbooks, blending classic pedagogy with popular tunes, ensuring you have the best material to boost your playing. Let’s delve into each selection, offering insights and recommendations backed by expert reviews and user feedback.

By Alex Harmon

10. TRY1057 – Basic Jazz Conception for Saxophone Volume 1 – Book/CD by Lennie Niehaus

Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.7 out of 5 stars (171 reviews)

Designed for intermediate players, Lennie Niehaus’s “Basic Jazz Conception for Saxophone Volume 1” is a quintessential guide for those keen on exploring jazz. With a blend of technical exercises and iconic jazz standards, this book/CD combo is a must-have for honing improvisation skills. Niehaus’s methodical approach has earned it high praise, making it a staple in many saxophonists’ collections.

Buy “Basic Jazz Conception for Saxophone Volume 1” here.

9. G-10166 – Habits Of A Successful Beginner Band Musician – Alto Saxophone by Scott Rush

Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.7 out of 5 stars (90 reviews)

Scott Rush’s “Habits Of A Successful Beginner Band Musician” stands out for its clear structure and motivational content. Perfect for beginners, this book emphasizes essential habits and foundational skills, ensuring a smooth journey from novice to confident performer. It’s highly recommended by educators for its practicality and ease of use.

Buy “Habits Of A Successful Beginner Band Musician” here.

8. 101 Popular Songs: for Alto Sax by Hal Leonard Corp.

Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.7 out of 5 stars (828 reviews)

“101 Popular Songs: for Alto Sax” is a comprehensive collection from Hal Leonard Corp., featuring hits across genres and eras. This book is a goldmine for players looking to expand their repertoire with familiar tunes, enhancing both technique and enjoyment. Its variety makes it a top choice for those who want to play songs they love.

7. 101 Jazz Songs Alto Sax by Hal Leonard Corp.

Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.6 out of 5 stars (435 reviews)

Jazz enthusiasts will find Hal Leonard Corp.’s “101 Jazz Songs Alto Sax” an invaluable resource. Covering a broad spectrum of jazz standards, this book is designed to develop your improvisational skills and understanding of jazz harmony. Its comprehensive selection has made it a favorite among jazz saxophonists.

Buy “101 Jazz Songs Alto Sax” here.

6. 70 Hit Songs For Alto Sax: Selection of Great Songs For Alto Sax by Nicholas J Zagar

Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.6 out of 5 stars (7 reviews)

Nicholas J Zagar’s “70 Hit Songs For Alto Sax” is perfect for those who love popular music. This book combines a diverse selection of hits, making it ideal for practicing technique while playing the songs you love. Its arrangement is user-friendly, making it easy to dive into your favorite tunes right away.

Buy “70 Hit Songs For Alto Sax” here.

5. W61XE – Tradition of Excellence Book 1 – Alto Saxophone by Bruce Pearson

Rating: ★★★★★ 4.9 out of 5 stars (579 reviews)

“Tradition of Excellence Book 1” by Bruce Pearson is acclaimed for its systematic approach to saxophone education. This book covers fundamental techniques and musical concepts, making it a favorite among teachers and students. Its clear layout and progressive exercises are designed to build a solid foundation in saxophone playing.

Buy “Tradition of Excellence Book 1” here.

4. How to Play Alto Sax in 14 Days: Daily Saxophone Lessons for Beginners by Aaron Gardner

Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.5 out of 5 stars (290 reviews)

Aaron Gardner’s “How to Play Alto Sax in 14 Days” is a streamlined course for beginners. This book promises to get you playing basic tunes in just two weeks with daily lessons that are easy to follow. Gardner’s method is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for those new to the saxophone.

Buy “How to Play Alto Sax in 14 Days” here.

3. First 50 Songs You Should Play on the Sax by Hal Leonard Corp.

Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.5 out of 5 stars (469 reviews)

“The First 50 Songs You Should Play on the Sax” by Hal Leonard Corp. is a treasure trove of timeless classics. This collection spans various genres, offering a broad range of music to explore. It’s a fantastic way to develop your skills while enjoying some of the most iconic songs ever written.

Buy “First 50 Songs You Should Play on the Sax” here.

2. Rubank Advanced Method – Saxophone Vol. 1 (Rubank Educational Library) by H. Voxman

Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.8 out of 5 stars (464 reviews)

H. Voxman’s “Rubank Advanced Method – Saxophone Vol. 1” is renowned for its comprehensive approach to technical development. This volume is ideal for intermediate to advanced players, covering everything from scales to complex musical pieces. Its structured exercises are designed to enhance both technique and musicality.

Buy “Rubank Advanced Method – Saxophone Vol. 1” here.

1. W21XE – Standard of Excellence Book 1 – Alto Saxophone by Bruce Pearson

Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.8 out of 5 stars (1,224 reviews)

At the top of our list is Bruce Pearson’s “Standard of Excellence Book 1.” This book is a cornerstone for many saxophonists, known for its progressive method and engaging content. It seamlessly blends technical exercises with fun, easy-to-play pieces, making it a favorite for students and educators alike. Its step-by-step approach ensures a smooth learning curve, setting the stage for future success.

Buy “Standard of Excellence Book 1” here.

From foundational classics to contemporary hits, these books are the perfect companions for any saxophonist’s journey. Whether you’re a beginner eager to start or a seasoned player aiming to refine your skills, these top picks will help you hit the right notes. Happy playing!

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Discover the top 10 saxophone songbooks to enhance your playing, from beginner guides to jazz standards. Find detailed reviews, ratings, and purchase links for the best saxophone books today.