Tips for Learning Saxophone at 50+: A Practical Guide for Adult Beginners
Learning saxophone at 50 and beyond is a rewarding endeavour that offers both personal enrichment and the joy of playing the music you love. If your goal is to play your favourite rock, soul, funk, or blues songs without relying on sheet music, this guide is tailored for you. Below, you’ll find practical advice to help you begin your musical journey with confidence and ease.
Select the Right Instrument
For adult beginners, the alto or the tenor saxophone is an excellent choice, perhaps with a slight bias towards the alto. Both sound great – but the alto is lighter in weight, easier to handle, and its sound is versatile enough to suit various genres. Whether you decide to rent or purchase your instrument, ensure it’s in good condition to avoid unnecessary frustrations. Consult a trusted music store if you need guidance. With saxophones, and all musical instruments, you do get what you pay for. Having said that, you don’t need to spend a million dollars to get a quality instrument. Arguably, the range of Yamaha saxophones are fantastic. For more information, check out our Saxophone Resources.
Begin with Songs You Know And Love
Instead of learning formal sheet music, focus on playing familiar melodies and riffs by ear. Start with simple, recognizable lines from your favourite rock, soul, funk or blues songs – the great songs you’ve been listening to for decades. Breaking these into small, manageable sections can make the learning process feel more approachable and enjoyable. And you will have better results, faster….which in turn provides inspiration, which then leads into a positive feed back loop of fun and achievement.
Establish a Strong Foundation
Before diving into complete songs, take time to familiarize yourself with the basics. This includes proper saxophone posture, developing a clear tone through embouchure practice, and mastering essential finger positions. Practicing basic scales, such as C major and D major, can help improve coordination and finger dexterity which is important if you are learning saxophone at 50+ and beyond.
Practice with Backing Tracks
A practical and enjoyable way to learn how to play the saxophone as at 50+ is by playing along with backing tracks. Numerous online resources, including platforms like YouTube, offer tracks in all of your favourite genres. These tracks allow you to practice rhythm and timing in a dynamic and engaging way, replicating the feeling of playing in a band. Or, just play along with your own music collection – vinyl, CDs, Spotify or what ever form you prefer.
Prioritize Practical Learning Methods
Tips For Learning Saxophone at 50+
There are alternative approaches to learning how to play the saxophone if you prefer to avoid reading sheet music. Look for online saxophone tutorials or instructional videos that teach saxophone techniques by ear. Step-by-step guidance and saxophone lessons focusing on familiar songs when combined with practical exercises can be very effective. And soooooo much more fun 🙂
Make Your Saxophone Practice Routine Enjoyable
Consistency is key, but the process should remain enjoyable. Aim for short, regular practice sessions—around 15 to 20 minutes a day if possible. Set achievable goals, such as mastering a riff or holding a clear long note, to keep yourself motivated and track your progress over time. Keep an eye and an ear on your saxophone fundamentals, as well as playing your favourite songs. Of all of the tips for learning saxophone at 50+ , this is the most important. Quite simply, if you don’t enjoy it you probably won’t do it. So – make sure your saxophone practice routine is fun !!
Embrace the Journey
Learning the saxophone is not about immediate mastery but rather the gradual and fulfilling process of discovery. Celebrate each milestone, from producing your first sound to actually being able to play along with the songs, riffs and recordings that your love. Enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes with each step. Become the rock star that you have always wanted to be – even if it is only in your mind or lounge room.
At this stage in life, learning to play the saxophone as an adults is an opportunity to reconnect with your passion for music. With practice, patience, and a focus on the songs and styles you love, if you start learning saxophone at 50+, or before, or beyond, you’ll find yourself bringing your favourite melodies to life on the expressive and iconic instrument that is the saxophone.
And always remember to:
Have fun. Play Saxophone. Be Awesome. Repeat.
Thanks,
Matthew 🎷
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P.S. If you would like simple step by step instructions to help you learn how to play your favourite Rock, Soul, Funk and Blues songs on the saxophone:
- all neatly organised in the one convenient location,
- all provided by an experienced saxophone teacher who can help you to play the music that YOU want to play quickly and easily,
- without reading music,
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