Belwin 21st Century Band Method, Level 1: B-flat Tenor Saxophone Book

This method was built by someone who spent twenty years in the classroom, and it shows in every carefully sequenced lesson. Bullock and Maiello understood that first-year students need early wins, so they wove in duets, folk melodies, and playful pieces alongside fundamentals. You can move through the entire book in one year without sacrificing depth or student engagement.

Straightforward and encouraging. The writing moves from fundamental breath control and single notes into recognizable melodies within a few lessons, letting students feel like musicians right away. The blend of classical themes, folk tunes, and contemporary selections creates variety without overwhelming the learner.

Beginning tenor saxophone students working through their first year of instruction, whether in a full concert band or in combination with private lessons. This book pairs naturally with parallel method books for other band instruments, creating a cohesive first-year curriculum across your entire ensemble.

• Lock in the rhythm fundamentals before moving forward. The in-depth rhythm study is foundational; invest time in exercises rather than rushing past them to reach the melodies.
• Use the duets and rounds strategically as ensemble checkpoints. These aren't just fun interludes; they reinforce intonation, balance, and listening skills in a low-pressure setting.
• Pair the classical and popular selections to show students the full range of musical styles they're capable of playing. A traditional hymn followed by a popular tune keeps motivation high.
• Reference the theory exercises consistently and connect them to the repertoire being played that week. Students grasp concepts faster when they see them applied immediately.

Complete this method as your primary first-year saxophone curriculum, using the included accompaniment CD to reinforce lessons and build ear training. The three complete concerts built into Level One give you ready-made performance opportunities at winter concert, spring concert, or small-group recital contexts without requiring supplementary arrangements.

• Single-note production and breath control on tenor saxophone
• Reading rhythm patterns including whole, half, quarter, and eighth notes in 2/4, 3/4, and 4/4 time
• Basic music theory including note naming, clefs, key signatures, and time signatures
• Intonation and listening skills through duet and round arrangements
• Fingering transitions on B-flat tenor saxophone across the first octave
• Ensemble balance and coordination in a band setting