If you are a resident of Sharon, MA you've probably already heard of the Sharon Music Academy. You've listened to our students saxophone performance at your friend's home, school concert, public park or on local cable TV station. You've probably also read about our students' achievements and about our Academy in the Sharon Advocate, Boston Globe or online.
The word saxophone actually refers to a family of woodwind instruments. Most people are familiar with the tenor sax, but there are also alto, baritone, and soprano saxophones. Although the saxophone has made some appearances in modern rock music, blues and pop, it's mostly known as a staple of the jazz sound. You can learn more about the saxophone’s history from Wikipedia.
Some parents believe that if a child participates in a school band he or she does not need private lessons. It is not true. More often than not, school band rehearsals are held as a big group lesson, with little to no focus on saxophone specifically, ear training, music theory or your child individually. In addition, band saxophone repertoire usually does not exercise the whole range of the saxophone and does not allow improvisation. Private lessons will, therefore, focus on your child’s learning, improve his or her abilities for band participation and expand the range of his or her saxophone mastery and repertoire.
During saxophone lessons students learn all aspects of technique and musicianship to master an instrument :
- Saxophone technique
- Sound development
- Breath control
- Reading Music
- Improvisation
- Music Theory
- Rhythm Reading
- Ear Training
Saxophone Lessons FAQ
Q. At what age should I start to learn the saxophone?
A. As the saxophone is a reasonably large and heavy instrument, a child needs to be of a certain size to begin to learn. Generally we would say children 9-10 years of age and above can start to learn the sax. And of course, it’s never too late to learn. We have students who have started in their 20’s and make excellent progress or who are picking up the saxophone again after a long break.
Q. What type of saxophone should I start to learn on?
A. It’s a good idea to learn the saxophone that you like the sound of the most as you will feel more enthusiasm for your own sound. Many people start with the alto saxophone as there are many second-hand and rental saxophones available, and it is a manageable size. Soprano saxophone can be difficult for beginners, as the intonation (playing in tune) is more challenging than Alto or Tenor.
Q. Where can I get a saxophone?
A. Even for a beginner it is important to have a quality instrument. We recommend Rayburn Music for rentals and purchases. To make it more convenient for our students the Sharon Music Academy has arranged with Rayburn to deliver and exchange rental saxophones on site. Just visit Rayburn’s rental page and choose “Affiliate: Sharon Music Academy” in “Select District” drop-down menu. Write down the confirmation number and email it to us. Students of the Sharon Music Academy may also have discounts on some instruments sold by Rayburn. If you know what saxophone you want to buy you can also try to buy online or search for the second hand instrument on craigslist. Our instructors will help you to choose the right instrument for you.
