How to Play Major and Minor Saxophone Scales

Perhaps you have just started learning the saxophone, or maybe you have been playing for a few years. Learning the major and minor scales on your saxophone will improve your playing, technique and musicality. Besides helping you learn to read music in all key signatures, which will improve your sight-reading skills, scales are a great way to warm up your fingers, embouchure and mind for a good, productive rehearsal.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Buy a copy of the book "Mel Bay Presents: Sax Scales" by Stuart Brottman. This book presents all of the major and minor scales, specifically for saxophone players.

2. Obtain a copy of a saxophone fingering chart if you don't already have one. These can usually be found in the back of most band method books on saxophone.

3. Start by learning the 12 major scales. It's easiest to learn the keys in order of increasing sharps and flats. See Resources.

4. Learn the minor scales. There are also 12 minor scales; however there are three variations of each minor scale: melodic, harmonic and natural. You'll want to learn all three variations of every minor scale.

5. Consider taking private lessons. There is simply no better way to get better at playing your saxophone than taking private lessons from a qualified instructor and practicing regularly.

Resources

• Learn scales.
• Visit Sheet Music Plus.