If you are interested in learning to play the saxophone, you should definitely consider finding yourself a sax tutor. Learning with a tutor can help you master the skills and techniques a lot faster and make sure you start your journey with the saxophone on the right footing. 

But what are the best ways to find a saxophone tutor and what to keep in mind when you are looking for one? Here are five tips to help you out. 

Tip 1: Make Sure Your Tutor Knows Sax Music 

There are unfortunately plenty of teachers out there who might be great at playing the instrument, but know nothing about teaching saxophone music to other people. You want someone with the right credentials. 

This means that you should look for a tutor with experience – not only in terms of having played the instrument for a long time, but also in terms of having taught other people previously. 

Tip 2:Think What You Need 

You need to think carefully what you are looking to achieve with your sax tutor before you start looking for one. This means focusing on two main things. 

First, you want to think about where your saxophone playing is heading. Are you looking to play just for fun on your free time? Do you perhaps want to turn your passion for saxophone music into a part-time career? 

Second, you need to think what sort of tutor are you looking for. Someone to just give you a bit of guidance every once in a while or perhaps a full-time teacher to help you during each step of the way? 

Tip 3:Listen to Your Tutor 

You definitely want to hear your tutor play before you sign up to saxophone lessons. Talk to your tutor about his/her style of playing and the musicians that he/she is passionate about. 

Tutors who are also performers can help you understand about skills like improvisation and playing with others – you definitely want to go with a professional performer if you are aiming to get on stage yourself one day! 

Tip 4: Don’t Forget About Online Alternatives 

Although there might be plenty of tutors running individual groups and lessons near you, you should also consider online alternatives. This can be especially great option if you have a busy schedule or you can’t find what you want close enough to your home. 

Online saxophone lessons can come in many forms. You could watch online videos, talk to tutors online or even opt for Skype sessions! 

Tip 5: Know What You Are Getting 

If you are making a financial commitment to your sax tutor, whether online or elsewhere, you need to be certain about what you are getting. Never agree to take lessons with a tutor who can’t give you lesson outlines and offer a broad understanding of what your skills will be after the lessons. 

When you are looking for a saxophone tutor, look around and talk to other players before you pick your tutor. Don’t shy away from online music lessons, as you can often use them as an extra boost to your new hobby!