Ensemble Development for Intermediate Concert Band: The Flat Baritone Saxophone

The flat baritone saxophone is a relatively new addition to the concert band family, having only been invented in the early 20th century. However, it has quickly become an essential member of the low woodwind section, providing a rich, sonorous sound that can add depth and character to any ensemble.

For intermediate concert bands, the flat baritone saxophone is an ideal instrument for developing students' ensemble skills. Its relatively easy fingering and range make it accessible to players of all levels, while its unique sound can help students learn to blend and balance their tone with other instruments.

In this article, we will discuss the following aspects of ensemble development for intermediate concert band flat baritone saxophone players:

Sound Innovations for Concert Band: Ensemble Development for Intermediate Concert Band - E-Flat Baritone Saxophone: Chorales and Warm-up Exercises for ... Rhythm (Sound Innovations Series for Band)

by Reynhard Boegl

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5050 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	56 pages

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• The role of the flat baritone saxophone in the concert band
• Essential techniques for flat baritone saxophone players
• Strategies for developing ensemble skills
• Repertoire suggestions for intermediate concert bands

The flat baritone saxophone is a member of the saxophone family, and it is played with a single reed. It is pitched in B-flat, one octave below the tenor saxophone. The flat baritone saxophone has a rich, sonorous sound that is well-suited for both melodic and harmonic playing.

In the concert band, the flat baritone saxophone is typically used to provide a bass line for the woodwind section. It can also be used to double the tuba or bassoon, or to add depth to the overall sound of the ensemble.

There are a number of essential techniques that flat baritone saxophone players need to master in order to play effectively in an ensemble. These techniques include:

• Proper embouchure
• Correct fingerings
• Accurate tonguing
• Good breath control
• Effective vibrato

The embouchure is the way in which the player's mouth and lips are formed around the mouthpiece. A proper embouchure is essential for producing a clear, focused sound.

To achieve a proper embouchure, the player should:

• Place the mouthpiece on the lower lip, just below the red part of the lip.
• Roll the lower lip over the teeth, so that the mouthpiece is supported by the lip and not the teeth.
• Bring the upper teeth down to meet the mouthpiece, forming a seal around it.
• Relax the corners of the mouth and blow gently into the mouthpiece.

The correct fingerings for the flat baritone saxophone are essential for playing in tune. The following chart shows the fingerings for the notes of the chromatic scale:

| Note | Fingering | |---|---| | B-flat | 000000 | | A | 00000x | | G | 0000x0 | | F# | 000x00 | | F | 00x000 | | E | 0x0000 | | D# | x00000 | | D | x0000x | | C# | x000x0 | | C | x00x00 | | B | x0x000 | | A | xx0000 |

Accurate tonguing is essential for producing a clear, crisp attack. The following techniques can help to improve tonguing:

• Use the tip of the tongue to touch the reed.
• Articulate the tongue with a quick, sharp motion.
• Keep the tongue relaxed and do not press it against the reed.

Good breath control is essential for playing with a consistent, even tone. The following techniques can help to improve breath control:

• Inhale deeply through the nose.
• Fill the lungs with air, but do not overfill them.
• Exhale slowly and evenly through the mouthpiece.
• Use diaphragm to support the airstream.

Vibrato is a technique that can add warmth and expression to the sound of the flat baritone saxophone. The following techniques can help to develop an effective vibrato:

• Relax the jaw and throat.
• Diaphragm to move the airstream back and forth.
• Do not overdo vibrato. It should be used sparingly to add expression to the music.

There are a number of strategies that can help intermediate concert band flat baritone saxophone players to develop their ensemble skills. These strategies include:

• Practice regularly with a metronome.
• Listen to recordings of professional concert bands.
• Play duets with other saxophone players.
• Attend workshops and masterclasses.

Practicing regularly with a metronome can help to improve timing and accuracy. When practicing with a metronome, it is important to start slowly and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.

Listening to recordings of professional concert bands can help you to learn how to play with good intonation, balance, and blend. Pay attention to the way the different instruments interact with each other, and try to emulate the sound of the professional ensemble.

Playing duets with other saxophone players can help you to develop your ensemble skills and learn how to blend your tone with other instruments. When playing duets, it is important to listen to each other and adjust your playing accordingly.

Attending workshops and masterclasses can be a great way to learn from experienced musicians and improve your ensemble skills. Workshops and masterclasses often focus on specific topics, such as intonation, balance, and blend.

There are a number of excellent repertoire choices for intermediate concert bands that feature the flat baritone saxophone. The following are a few suggestions:

• "American Overture for Band" by James Barnes
• "The Hounds of Spring" by Alfred Reed
• "Suite Francaise" by Darius Milhaud
• "Symphony No. 4" by Vincent Persichetti
• "Toccata and Fugue in D Minor" by Johann Sebastian Bach, arranged by Ralph Vaughan Williams

The flat baritone saxophone is a valuable member of the concert band family, and it can be a great instrument for intermediate players to develop their ensemble skills. By mastering the essential techniques for flat baritone saxophone playing and applying the strategies discussed in this article, you can help your ensemble achieve a high level of musical excellence.

Sound Innovations for Concert Band: Ensemble Development for Intermediate Concert Band - E-Flat Baritone Saxophone: Chorales and Warm-up Exercises for ... Rhythm (Sound Innovations Series for Band)

by Reynhard Boegl

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5050 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	56 pages

FREE