Student Instrumental Course: Alto Saxophone Student, Level II: Saxophone Book

The Level II alto saxophone book picks up where beginners leave off with material that challenges without overwhelming. Coggins balances technical development against musical payoff, so students stay motivated while building the fundamentals they'll need for more advanced repertoire.

The journey from Level I to Level II marks a real shift in what's possible on the instrument. Passages become more lyrical, rhythms more varied, and the alto saxophone's warm middle register starts to sing with character rather than just produce notes.

This book is designed for intermediate alto saxophonists progressing through their second year of study, whether in a class setting or private lessons. It works equally well for students who started on band method books and are ready for more focused saxophone-specific material.

• Work through exercises in short segments rather than attempting full pages at once. Breaking material into digestible chunks builds accuracy faster and reduces frustration.
• Use a metronome starting at a comfortable tempo, then gradually increase speed only after passages feel secure under your fingers.
• Pay attention to the style and articulation markings in each exercise. They're not decorative; they train your ears and embouchure for the musical variety you'll encounter later.
• Record yourself periodically to identify problem areas. Self-listening reveals intonation and rhythm issues that can slip past you in real time.

Pair this book with orchestral and concert band literature at the same level to reinforce concepts in musical context. Students using Level II solidify the technical foundation they'll need to tackle the demanding ranges and articulations of standard intermediate band charts.

• Second-line and third-space reading on the treble clef
• Articulation control (legato, staccato, and combined styles)
• Consistent intonation across the full range of the instrument
• Rhythmic accuracy in compound meters and syncopation
• Tone development and breath support under musical phrasing
• Interval identification and major/minor tonality recognition