Your first band session is completely FREE so that you can try Sax Bandits to see if it’s right for you. There is no expectation for your ongoing involvement but we would be sad for this to be a one-time encounter.
We look forward to meeting you and your sax!
What To Expect
We typically have 15-25 saxophonists attend each band session. We stand in a semi-circle in front of the band leader (although you can sit if necessary). Before the session starts, find a space to set up your instrument and introduce yourself to other members whilst we wait for everyone to arrive.
Our band sessions are relaxed and we are supportive of each other. It might be of comfort to remember that every person in the band was once in your position, attending their first session (and probably feeling quite nervous). Enthusiasm is more important to us than playing things perfectly so contribute as much as you feel comfortable with on the day (even if that means stopping to listen and take it all in)!
What To Bring
Remember to bring your saxophone and a music stand, that’s all you need to get involved! If you want to dig in a bit deeper we have compiled a comprehensive equipment list for the ‘gear nerds’ out there.
Sheet Music
You will also need to bring your own Sheet Music, either printed or digitally on an iPad/tablet (if you don’t have access to either we have hard copies you can use).
You can check which songs we are currently learning in our set list.
The sheet music might look a little intimidating at first, especially without hearing it in the context of the band. If you spot any ‘difficult’ rhythms they are usually repeated many times and much easier to pick up when you can hear them being played. Don’t worry if you don’t recognise all the notation or symbols. Our band members are all at different levels which might mean you only contribute a few notes on your first session but as you become more familiar with the songs you can contribute more. The most important thing is to have fun playing music with other people!
Date & Time
Sax Bandits meet once a month on a Sunday in several different locations. Refer to the Sax HQ Calendar to view upcoming dates of your chosen band location and confirm the venue location and meeting time.
As a first-timer, please arrive 15 minutes earlier than the start time to introduce yourself to your band leader and other members. The session is structured into two 1-hours with a 30 minute interval with refreshments provided.
Inspirational Stories
27 years ago my husband bought me a tenor saxophone to celebrate the birth of our son. This amazing gift brought me a step closer to a long-held ambition to play this beautiful instrument. However, as a new parent I decided that even if I could find the time to practice, the noise I would make…
My first experience with the saxophone was at my sister’s wedding. The saxophonist played to us sweetly as we enjoyed our dinner, and then played some serious solos during the evening party – to say my interest was sparked is an understatement. However, all I could play was a recorder…
I’ve been learning sax for about 5 years now. I’ve done some hard things in my life but taking up a musical instrument for the first time at the age of 70 and trying to get the right notes in the right order at the right time has to rank as one of the most challenging. On the positive side being retired means I have more time…
What First-Timers Have Said
“I thoroughly enjoyed meeting and playing with the other band members. I had been quite apprehensive about it but that soon passed when we started to play the music. It sounds so good when all the sections come together – such fun. It was good to meet you and thanks for welcoming me into Sax Bandits.”
“I was a bit nervous at the beginning but there was safety in numbers and the whole experience was more comfortable than I had anticipated. It’s great to be learning and playing in a band where I can hear what something ‘should’ sound like. I’ve had a look at the resources on the website and it’s evident that there is a lot of work going on behind the scenes to support the band. This is all very accessible and a great way to play with like-minded people.”