Minor Blues J=132 The fingering exercises and ‘Bluc Jean’ introduce G above the break, As you extend range upwards it is essential that you do not tighlen he embouchure or constr throat muscles. The notes will speak freely and easily, provided that you support t)_ column with the abdominal muscles. ‘Iry to achieve the feeling of your sound ‘floal on air’ N.B. The second and third exercises can be played as a duet. Blue Jean i; Improvisation Now you are ready to try improvising for the first time. Here is a five-note scale, also known as a pentatonic scale, which will serve as your source material. It would be a good idea to learn it by heart before attempting to improvise with it. . Play the backing track again, but this time play whatever you feel using the scale n only.* You need not worry about playing any ‘wrong’ notes, since all of the notes in_, seale will sound fine wherever you play them. Most beginner improvisers make the mistake of neglecting the rhythmic aspec their playing. The following exercises should help with this problem: u ©@ Clap out a solo, or tap one on your legs or on a table top. Be as adventurous a5 yc like, but ty to maintain a strong rhythmic feeling in what you do, like a good drummer, ‘The scale notes may be played int any reyister of the saxophone, 60 you can also play low G, E, D and ~ A 2 ees