The Index is intended to provide you the performer with the opportunity to discover a world of original tenor saxophone repertoire, helping you to find hidden gems you never knew about, and to provide you with as much information as possible on pieces you may already know. Hit the 'Browse' tab to discover original tenor saxophone music!
Original tenor saxophone repertoire:
By collating original tenor saxophone repertoire it is hoped that it will help to highlight, support and build upon the fact that there is an ever-developing strength and depth to the instrument’s catalogue of works.
An original tenor work is a piece of music written specifically for the tenor sax; we are not looking for Bach, Mozart or Schubert arrangements. Taking this point one step further, even tenor versions of soprano or alto pieces will not be included.
As a composer you write a new piece in a particular way or style because of the intended instruments unique characteristics, such as its sonorities. Let’s just say each saxophone has a very different sound!
There will be from time to time exceptions to these rules. For example 'Ballad in Memory for Shirley Horn' by Richard Rodney Bennett was written originally for clarinet. However the tenor saxophone version was made and edited/rewritten for the tenor by the composer himself and so now counts! We consider all pieces on an individual basis.
Difficulty ratings:
We have done our best to provide you with a useful and accurate difficulty grading system. However, as with all things music, this is open to interpretation. Note this is not a quality rating system. Please don't be put off by a piece because it has a 'Difficult' rating. And do remember this works both ways!
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Intermediate |
Approximately Grade 5-6 |
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Progressive |
Approximately Grade 7-8 |
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Advanced |
Approximately Grade 8 |
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Difficult |
Approximately diploma / professional |
Note: Grading based upon 'The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music' (ABRSM) system.
Instrumentation:
Instrumentation fields within the Index have been organised into a number of select and assorted groups hopefully covering whatever weird and wonderful instrumental combinations composers choose to write for. The exact instrumentation detail is provided for each piece when viewing an entry individually.
Publishers:
Please note that in some cases you may not be able to buy directly from the publisher. In that event, check who the publisher’s distributors are and buy from them directly. Alternatively, pass on the useful Index information to your trusted local music shop.
Many of works on the Index are self-published. Wherever possible we try to provide you with a website address to help you get in touch with the composer directly. Don't be afraid to ask!
Validity:
We have made every effort to provide you with the correct details for each work. Data displayed within the Index itself has wherever possible been verified from two separate sources. Sources include composer, performer and publisher’s websites, as well as record label sites and various academic papers and dissertations.
If you can help us fill in any gaps we may have, do not hesitate to get in touch!