Each week I assign a new scale exercise for my students to memorize. I test the following week. And just about 100 percent of the time, the student can rip through the scale no problem.
But when I ask them to slow it down, well, that's when the mistakes start arriving.
Why is that?
Simple answer: because scales, vital as they are, are boring. They require seeming endless repetition, and scales become something a musician practices for the duration.
Just like long tone practice, scale exercises never go away. And it is only natural to want to knock them out as quickly as is possible.
And it is easier to get that rote thing going than it is to actually slow down and listen to your own tones each time. But that's what you want to do. Listen. Practice slow. Speed can come later.
And it will.
The overall goal is not just to be able to play fast and with agility, but for each note to be beautiful, to sound polished.
Play slowly, build the scale tones with strength, and concentrate. That's a tall order in a high speed world in which so many of us spend time involved in virtual pursuits, but so be it.
And remember: your metronome and your tuner are your two best friends in the practice room when it comes to scales.
Key words: saxophone practice tips, learning scales, private lessons, la mesa saxophone teacher
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