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PodchaserWhy Classical Saxophone Might Be the Best Thing You’ve Never Tried
When most adult learners start their saxophone journey, they’ve got a style in mind. Jazz. Funk. Blues. Maybe even Ska or Rock.
But here’s a question for you: Have you ever thought about learning classical saxophone?
If your first thought is “No way, that’s not for me” — you’re not alone. But after chatting with Anna Brooks in this episode of the Sax School Podcast, I’m more convinced than ever that classical saxophone might just be the thing that unlocks your playing… whatever your musical goals.
In fact, it’s a huge part of why so many great players are able to play saxophone with confidence across every style.
Anna Brooks: From Classical Training to Touring with Jools Holland
If you’ve seen Anna Brooks perform with Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, or heard her play with Rod Stewart or Brooklyn Funk Essentials, you might be surprised to learn she started her career as a classically trained saxophonist.
“I always had the dream of doing something that wasn’t classical,” Anna told me. “But I didn’t really know what the options were. I grew up in a pretty small town and didn’t know any professional gigging musicians.”
Like so many of us, Anna’s early experiences playing jazz and improvising were terrifying at first — especially coming from a structured classical background.
“When somebody suddenly takes the music away from you, it’s kind of terrifying… it becomes about personal expression.”
But pushing through that fear opened up a whole world of music.
What Classical Saxophone Really Teaches You
Classical saxophone isn’t just about playing Mozart or Handel (although that can be fun too!). It’s about building the foundations that make you a stronger, more versatile player — whatever style you love.
Anna explained it perfectly:
“The thing about classical music is that it gives you structure and discipline… and there’s something very satisfying about working through a piece and knowing you’re playing it right.”
Technical Control
Classical music often demands accuracy across the full range of the saxophone — including tricky passages that build finger strength, flexibility, and control.
Reading Skills
Learning written music gives you independence. Instead of waiting for a tutorial, you can learn new songs straight from the sheet music.
Tone & Dynamics
Slow practice, long notes, and phrasing help develop a beautiful, even tone — critical for jazz, pop, or any style.
Confidence Under Pressure
Working through demanding classical pieces builds your confidence to tackle challenging music, including improvising.
Why Classical Players Make Great Improvisers Too
One of the biggest myths about classical vs. jazz saxophone is that you have to pick one or the other.
In reality, the skills cross over all the time.
Anna shared how working on classical music helped her feel more comfortable improvising in jam sessions early in her career — even if it was scary at first.
“People really respect you for trying something new,” Anna said. “Jazz musicians want you to be into jazz — they’ll support you.”
Recommended Classical Sax Resources from Anna Brooks
For Complete Beginners
- Learn as You Play Saxophone by Peter Wastall
For Developing Players
- Easy Classical Studies by John Harle
For Intermediate to Advanced Players
- 48 Studies for Saxophone by Ferling
Essential Technique Books
- Top Tones for the Saxophone by Sigurd Rascher
- Developing a Personal Saxophone Sound by Dave Liebman
Why Classical Study Makes You More Employable (and Versatile)
Whether you dream of gigging in a band or just playing for fun, building a classical foundation gives you more options.
“If you can read well, have good tone, strong technique, and you can improvise — you’re basically making yourself much more employable. And a much more versatile saxophonist.” — Anna Brooks
Take the Next Step: Introduction to Classical Saxophone Course (Included with Sax School Membership)
Ready to explore classical saxophone without feeling overwhelmed?
Inside Sax School PRO membership, our Introduction to Classical Saxophone course is the perfect next step.
This course is designed specifically for adult learners who want to:
- Develop better tone and control
- Learn essential classical repertoire
- Improve reading and sight-reading skills
- Add beautiful melodies to their repertoire
- Build strong foundations for any style of playing
You’ll get step-by-step lessons, guided practice, and support from our Sax School tutor team — all designed to help you play saxophone with confidence.
About Nigel McGill
Nigel McGill set up Sax School Online to share his knowledge from decades performing and leading bands all over the world. Over the past 11 years his videos, courses and live education events have reached millions of players worldwide.
