A grounding in the basics of this popular instrument for beginners through to people with some experience. BYO or hire an alto or tenor saxophone with spare reeds.

Your Tutor is John Mabarrack

John Mabarrack BEd, MEd, MMus has been teaching at WEA since 2013. 

John is an experienced educator, performer, songwriter and composer with a lifelong passion for music. He has taught music throughout Australia and the United Kingdom, and has studied and performed a diverse range of music.

Course Description

This introductory course is perfect for anyone interested in learning to play the saxophone, whether you're an absolute beginner or have some previous experience. 

You'll receive a solid foundation in essential techniques including breath control, fingering, tone production, and basic music reading. 

The course also introduces you to the saxophone’s history and how to care for and maintain the instrument. 

Whether you bring your own alto or tenor saxophone or hire one, you’ll be guided step-by-step in a supportive group environment with instruction tailored to your experience level.

Each session combines demonstration, hands-on practice, and engaging musical activities that help you build confidence and musicality. 

You’ll learn how to produce a strong sound, understand music notation, and perform simple melodies and scales. 

By the end of the course, you’ll be able to play several short pieces and have the tools to continue developing your skills independently.

Course Structure

The course begins with an introduction to the saxophone’s background, parts, and how to handle and care for it. 

From the first week, students learn how to produce a tone and play basic notes such as G, A, and B. 

Each subsequent session builds on this foundation, gradually introducing more notes (C, D, E, F, F#) and musical concepts including tonguing, slurring, tuning, and simple scales like the D Dorian and D Mixolydian. 

Students practise using these notes in short pieces, some with backing tracks, to help with rhythm and fluency. 

Regular revision and tailored instruction ensure that learners progress comfortably and with confidence.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Identify the parts of a saxophone and understand basic instrument care
• Assemble and maintain a saxophone correctly
• Produce a clear tone using correct embouchure and breath control
• Play and recognise notes from G to F#
• Understand and apply tonguing and slurring techniques
• Tune the saxophone and adjust tone as needed
• Perform short pieces using basic fingerings and rhythms
• Play scales such as D Dorian and D Mixolydian
• Follow basic music notation and play with a backing track
• Develop a personal practice routine for continued improvement.

Course Requirements

Students are required to bring their own alto or tenor saxophone with spare reeds.

Suitable saxophones are available for hire from a range of popular local music stores.