Key of the Song: The original song is in the key of E minor. You can play it in the same key on your alto saxophone.
Essential Notes: The main notes you'll need to play are: E, G, B, D, F#, A, and C.
Saxophone Fingering Chart: Here are the fingerings for these notes:
- E: Left-hand pinky key (low E)
- G: Left-hand ring finger key and right-hand pinky key
- B: Left-hand middle finger key and right-hand index finger key
- D: Left-hand index finger key and right-hand middle finger key
- F#: Left-hand thumb key and right-hand ring finger key
- A: Right-hand pinky key and left-hand pinky key (octave key)
- C: Right-hand pinky key and left-hand index finger key (octave key)
Note Patterns: The song has a simple note pattern throughout the verses. Listen to the song and pay attention to the rhythm and repetition of the notes. You can play along with the recording to get a feel for it.
Chorus: The chorus of the song features a call-and-response pattern between the lead singer and the backup vocals. You can play the backup vocals on the alto saxophone. The main phrase you'll play is B-C-D-E.
Bridge: The bridge of the song has a different melody. Listen to the song carefully and practice playing the notes accordingly.
Practice and Improvisation: Start practicing the song slowly. Work on getting the rhythm and notes right. As you become more comfortable with the song, you can add your own improvisations and embellishments to make it your own.
Remember to practice regularly and have fun playing Thrift Shop on your alto saxophone!