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If there was a Sax Hero video game, Ben Wendel would without a doubt be one of the bosses you had to defeat.
Ben has just released Technitudes, an innovative book designed to challenge saxophonists in new and exciting ways. I sat down with him recently and he explained about all the saxophone challenges and puzzles contained within the book.

Technitudes is extremely versatile as it is highly applicable to both classical and jazz saxophonists. Each etude tackles a specific area of saxophone technique, offering players the opportunity to refine their skills through complex exercises.
Ben’s approach, rooted in both classical training and jazz performance, makes Technitudes an invaluable resource for advanced saxophonists seeking to deepen their technical and musical abilities.
A Deep Dive into Technitude Etudes
We talked about each one of the ten etudes in the book, each presenting its own technical puzzle for players to work through. From the first etude focused on trills to low-end leaps to circular breathing (to name just a few), Ben has carefully designed exercises that address the intricacies of the saxophone.

He explains that these exercises push players to master challenging areas while keeping their technique relaxed and fluid. The etudes are not just about technique; they are composed with musicality in mind as well, making them enjoyable to practice and perform.
Bridging Technique and Musicality
One of the key takeaways from our discussion is the importance of maintaining consistency and relaxation, no matter how difficult the technique. Whether it’s mastering circular breathing or working through leaps and articulation, Ben encourages players to approach these challenges with a calm, focused mindset. The book’s exercises force players to examine their playing under a microscope, ultimately leading to better control and a more refined sound.
Technitudes serves as a reminder that technical challenges, when framed musically, can help players unlock new levels of artistry. Whether you are into etudes or not, jazz or classical, you’re probably going to learn something from this conversation. I certainly do every time I talk to Ben.

I’ve put a link to Ben’s website where you can learn more about Technitudes.
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