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How to Read Sheet Music for the Saxophone Online

Until recently, saxophonists bought music in stores or through mail order. The process was time-consuming and there was limited access to titles. Today, musicians may download music immediately from the Internet, sometimes at no cost. For saxophonists, an Internet search may also offer many arrangements not traditionally written for their instruments.

Things You'll Need

  • Saxophone
  • Computer
  • Internet access
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Instructions

    • 1
      Paper sheet music

      Decide what works you want to find, and assemble identifying information such as opus numbers, orchestrations and key signatures. Also, choose music intended for your specific instrument (soprano, alto, tenor or baritone) to make sure your tunes arrive in the correct key.

    • 2
      Music is available online immediately.

      Search online for the saxophone music. One website, Virtual Sheet Music sells not only sheet music, but a MIDI or mp3 audio file to accompany you. Another, 8notes.com offers nearly 100 free downloads for saxophonists.

    • 3
      Alto saxophonist

      Download your sheet music, which will arrive in PDF format. If the font is too small, enlarge it, or you may also shrink the music, allowing multiple pages on the desktop for easier page turns.

    • 4
      Turning pages can be challenging for saxophonists.

      With both hands busy, page turning is difficult for sax players. AirTurn provides a solution with a wireless, pedal-operated device that advances digital music pages. Another product for saxophonists reading from their computers is a pedestal from Music Reader that turns a laptop into a music stand.

    • 5
      Metronome

      Online metronomes also streamline practice for saxophonists reading music from a computer. A free version is available from Metronome Online in both computer and cell phone downloads, eliminating the need to carry an external time-keeping device.

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