John Kinyon's Basic Training Course, Book 2: Alto Sax Book

Kinyon's approach treats alto sax students as genuine musicians from day one, not as players waiting to join a "real" band. The method's triple flexibility—working equally well for solo study, like-instrument classes, or mixed ensembles—means this single book serves your program whether students are learning one-on-one or in full sections.

Kinyon's writing balances encouragement with clear challenge. Pieces build logically from one to the next, each introducing a manageable new element while reinforcing what came before. The result feels like progress that actually sticks.

Beginning alto saxophonists learning in private lessons, homogeneous sax sections, or full concert bands where they anchor the woodwind foundation. This book works for students aged 10 and up who are completing their first year of instruction and ready for methodical skill progression.

• Mark breath points and phrase endings clearly in pencil during early run-throughs; Kinyon's phrasing often spans longer lines than beginners expect.
• Treat rhythmic patterns as building blocks. When a rhythm appears in multiple pieces, have students identify it and discuss how the composer varies or repeats it.
• Record yourself playing short passages at performance tempo and listen back; this develops ear training faster than live playing alone.
• Practice from the middle of exercises, not always from the top. Starting at measure 8 or 12 builds flexibility and confidence in new keys or positions.

Assign this as the core method for all beginning altos during their second year, ensuring consistency across your saxophone section regardless of private lesson involvement. The book's dual compatibility with both solo and group settings means it adapts whether your program emphasizes studio preparation or ensemble participation.

• Reading ledger lines above the treble staff
• Slurred passages and smooth legato phrasing
• Accidentals and key signature changes
• Dotted rhythms and syncopation
• Double-tonguing foundations
• Breath control and phrase shaping
• Ensemble intonation awareness