Accent on Performance Light Concert Collection: Alto Saxophone Book

You get 22 full arrangements from two composers who understand exactly what intermediate band students can play and what they need to hear musically. The diversity of styles in this collection means your alto saxophones stay engaged whether they're swinging through a jazz number, driving a Latin tune, or supporting a folk melody. Every piece works directly alongside the Accent on Achievement curriculum, so your section assignments and rehearsal materials align seamlessly.

These arrangements radiate accessibility without sacrificing musicality. You'll encounter folk melodies that feel immediately singable, Latin grooves with infectious rhythmic energy, rock tunes that make you want to lock in with the band, and jazz-influenced pieces that hint at the expressive possibilities of your instrument. The overall effect is encouraging: music that sounds complete and worthwhile even as you're still building fundamental skills.

Alto saxophonists in beginning-to-intermediate concert bands who are working through or have completed the early-to-middle pages of Accent on Achievement. Sections ranging from small beginning bands to larger concert groups will find arrangements that fit their needs without requiring advanced technical skills.

• Balance your alto sax section carefully in the thinner voicings typical of light concert arrangements. These pieces often feature the saxes prominently, so intonation and blend between altos and tenors require consistent ear work.
• Pay attention to style markings in the Latin and jazz selections. The rhythmic feel in 'Rockin' la Bamba' or 'Stand Up and Swing' lives in how tightly your saxes lock with the rhythm section, not just the notes themselves.
• Use the folk arrangements as opportunities to shape lyrical lines. Your altos may carry melody in pieces like 'River Trilogy,' and these passages teach phrasing and breath control that transfer to all your concert repertoire.

Slot these pieces into early-season concerts when you're building confidence and section cohesion. The variety of styles gives you natural programming options: you might open with an energetic rock arrangement, follow with a lyrical folk piece, and close with a swinging jazz selection. Because the collection coordinates with Accent on Achievement, use it to reinforce whatever page numbers your students are currently studying in method class.

• Balancing tone and intonation in ensemble voicings
• Reading and performing folk, rock, jazz, and Latin-American styles
• Sustaining focused long tones across melodic phrases
• Locking rhythmic figures with the ensemble, especially in syncopated passages
• Adapting articulation and tone color to match musical style