A Modern Approach

Allison D. Adams and Brian R. Horner

Playing & Teaching the Saxophone: A Modern Approachprovides a method for teaching the saxophone that is specific enough to use as a textbook in a collegiate saxophone methods class, simple enough for a band director to use in guiding their saxophone sections, clear enough for adult beginners to teach themselves the instrument, and deep enough for professionals to use as a resource in teaching private lessons at any level.

The first sections of this book, Getting Started and Learning the Notes, take a student in a collegiate methods class or other adult beginner through the fundamental concepts of playing the saxophone. The In-Depth section then lays out critical concepts that are essential to the further development of any saxophonist. As a contemporary guide for teaching the musicians and music educators of the 21st century, this method addresses the pedagogy of not only the instrument, but of the whole student. It includes a diverse array of musical examples that celebrate communities and cultures around the globe, and a “Wellness for the Young Musician” chapter offers an overview of practices that will help students navigate performance anxiety and avoid injury while playing.

Designed to be a lifelong reference for band directors and private instructors, the book includes “Hand-It-Over” sections that can be used as student instructional sheets. These materials, along with video performances and teaching demonstrations, are also available in the book’s companion website.