Engaging alto sax method for intermediate kids
The Intermediate Band Fun Book (Alto Saxophone)
What Is This Book?
The Intermediate Band Fun Book (Alto Saxophone) is a method and repertoire book created specifically for second- and third-year band students. It blends clear skill-building exercises with fun music to keep young alto saxophonists motivated while they grow technically and musically. Students get a structured path that bridges the gap between beginner books and more advanced band literature.
Who Is This Book For?
This book is ideal for elementary and middle school alto saxophone students in their 2nd–3rd year of playing. It works well for school band programs, private lesson studios, and motivated home learners who need a clear, step-by-step next level after a beginning band book. Directors can use it for sectionals and small-group work, and students can also use it independently for daily practice and extra challenge.
What Makes This Book Easy for Kids to Learn?
The layout is designed with young players in mind, using clear notation and logical pacing so students can move forward without feeling overwhelmed. Concepts are introduced in manageable steps, with exercises that reinforce fingerings, rhythms, and reading skills as they go. The book balances repetition and variety, helping students build confidence while keeping practice sessions interesting and achievable.
What Music Does the Book Include?
The Intermediate Band Fun Book (Alto Saxophone) includes scales and arpeggios that strengthen basic technique and prepare students for band music in more keys. It features a wide range of progressive etudes that cover different styles and musical ideas, helping players develop control, expression, and reading skills. The book also offers expressive solos and engaging duets, giving students the chance to perform both independently and with a partner.
Are There Fun Extras Included?
This book focuses on the music itself and does not include additional extras.
What’s Inside the Book?
Progressive scale and arpeggio studies for alto saxophone
Intermediate-level etudes that build tone, articulation, and reading
Solo pieces that let students showcase their musicality
Duets for playing with a friend, teacher, or bandmate
Exercises designed to support 2nd- and 3rd-year band curriculum
Content that bridges the gap between beginner and full concert band music
Material aligned with common school band skill expectations
Skills Your Child Will Learn
Improved alto sax tone and breath control
Stronger rhythm reading in simple and compound meters
Greater fluency in key signatures and scale patterns
Articulation skills such as tonguing and slurring
Musical phrasing and expressive playing
Ensemble listening and blend through duets
Technical facility through arpeggios and pattern work
Increased confidence in solo and section playing
How to Use This Book
Band directors can assign specific scales, etudes, solos, and duets as weekly goals that support what students are learning in full band. Private teachers can move through the book in order or select pieces that match a student’s current level, using the etudes and solos for study and performance. Parents can encourage home practice by setting short, focused goals—such as one scale, one short etude, and a few lines of a solo—so students make steady progress without frustration. Duets can be used in lessons, sectionals, or at home with another player to build ensemble skills and keep learning social and fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this book suitable for complete beginners?
No. It is designed for second- and third-year alto saxophone students who already know basic notes, fingerings, and rhythms.
Can this book be used without a teacher?
Yes, motivated students can work through the book on their own, but guidance from a band director or private teacher will help ensure proper technique and faster progress.
Does this book align with typical school band programs?
Yes. The material is written to support common skills and standards found in elementary and middle school band curricula.
Is this book only for alto saxophone?
This edition is specifically for alto saxophone. Matching versions exist for other band instruments, but each book is tailored to that instrument’s range and needs.
Can the solos and duets be used for performances?
Yes. Many of the solos and duets are well-suited for informal recitals, school playing tests, and small performances.
Learn More
For additional music tutorials and demonstrations, visit the official Music Fun Books YouTube Channel.
Where to get it
Available now on Amazon.