Get your Sax playing to really swing with this collection of Jazz solos! James Rae presents a set of 8 sizzling Jazz tunes in a wide variety of styles to guide you through your first steps into this exciting playing style. The pieces range from Cool Blues ballads and Country Blues shuffles to a drifting Jazz Waltz and a riotous up-tempo Swing. All syncopations and unusual phrasings are introduced gradually and the key signatures have been kept very simple making this ideal for the early-intermediate player.Suitable for both B-flat Tenor and E-flat Alto Saxophones with separate pull-out parts for both instruments. All pieces include a full Piano accompaniment.

For the stylish approach„Designed for the beginner this collection of pieces provides stimulating performing material at the easiest possible level. The accompaniments (piano or CD) provide a good solid backing and will inspire the soloist to play with energy and enthusiasm. I have made much deliberate use of the repetition of phrases as I feel that this is the best way for pupils to absorb new rhythms.„ James Raeo 10 solo performance pieces for the beginner in a variety of styles including Swing Funk Reggae Blues and Latin.o The accompaniments either piano or the CD of orchestrated backings are strong and supportive taking the playerstraight intothe right stylistic environment.o The CD also features demonstration solos. o Ideal for group tuition.o These pieces are available for other instruments making Play it Cool suitable as elementary ensemble material.

Blue Baroque Saxophone is a collection of modern re-workings of eight pieces taken from the baroque period and set in various blues styles. For many years it has been appreciated that direct transcriptions of music from this era work particularly well on the Saxophone as the instrument has much in common with the Oboe. Here James Rae takes things one step further introducing rhythmic and harmonic devices of the present day.The pieces are of moderate length and difficulty enabling the player to achieve a good performance with a modest amount of practice. Parts are included for both E flat and B flat instruments.

This is a fine example of how a Baroque sonata can be successfully transcribed for a more modern instrument such as the saxophone. John Harle has done a first-class job and has produced a transcription that lends itself perfectly to the characteristics of the instrument. This publication has been set on many of the top examination syllabuses worldwide and has also proved to be a popular choice on many recital programmes. (James Rae)