Band Today, Part 2: E-flat Baritone Saxophone Book

Ployhar's Part 2 method moves students past fundamentals into genuine musicianship without overwhelming them. The 32-page format keeps focus sharp while introducing the intermediate concepts your baritone saxophones need to become solid section members. This is intermediate work that actually sounds like music, not just exercises strung together.

Purposeful and straightforward. The material builds confidence through clear progression without flashy displays. You'll find yourself actually playing music that belongs in a band, even as you're still developing core skills.

Intermediate baritone saxophonists ready to deepen their musicianship beyond beginning fundamentals. This book works for students in their second or third year of band experience who need structured work on tone, technique, and reading fluency. It's designed for concert band settings where students are developing into capable section players.

• Balance your tone across the full range of the book. Baritone sax carries harmonic weight in the section, so invest time in evenness from low to high.
• Mark fingering challenges before rehearsal so you can focus on phrasing and intonation during band time rather than mechanics.
• Listen to the ensemble voicings in your part. Ployhar writes baritone sax to support and blend, not to lead, so adjust your dynamic listening accordingly.

Use Part 2 as your primary method text for intermediate baritone saxophonists during their second or third year of band. It pairs well with standard concert band literature at the intermediate level, providing the technical and musical foundation your students need without requiring supplementary materials. Assign sections strategically through the school year rather than racing through the book.

• Tone development and consistency across registers
• Intermediate fingering technique
• Reading in multiple clefs and key signatures
• Rhythmic accuracy and subdivision
• Harmonic awareness and blend within the section
• Breath support and phrase shaping