When you learn to play a brass instrument, practicing scales and arpeggios is super helpful. Doing this along with simple songs really improves your skills. Scales and arpeggios are like the building blocks of music. They help you understand how music works and make you better at playing. Simple songs give you a chance to use what you've learned in a fun way. Let's look at some easy songs you can learn while you practice scales and arpeggios.

Why Scales and Arpeggios Matter

Scales and arpeggios are important for any musician. They help improve your finger movements and your ability to use your lips correctly (called embouchure). They also help you learn different musical keys and understand what music looks like. Plus, they train your ears, so you can hear different notes and melodies better!

When you practice scales, like major and minor scales, you’ll notice that many simple songs use those same notes. This makes it easier to learn both scales and songs together.

Simple Songs to Practice

Here are some easy songs to try while you practice your scales and arpeggios:

1. 'Mary Had a Little Lamb'

This popular nursery rhyme is perfect for beginners. Its simple and repeatable melody makes it great for practicing.

• Scales: It mainly uses the C major scale (C-D-E).
• Arpeggios: You can practice the C major arpeggio (C-E-G) with this song.

Playing this song after practicing the C major scale helps you understand that scale better!

2. 'Hot Cross Buns'

Many beginners know this tune. It has a simple pattern of notes that you can change to different keys easily.

• Scales: It has easy patterns like those in minor scales.
• Arpeggios: You can practice the arpeggios of F major (F-A-C) and E minor (E-G-B).

Adding this song to your practice helps with both scales and learning to play in different keys.

3. 'Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star'

This well-known lullaby gives you a chance to work on rhythms and themes. Students really enjoy this one.

• Scales: It’s played in the G major scale (G-A-B).
• Arpeggios: Use the G major (G-B-D) and C major (C-E-G) arpeggios as you play along.

When practicing this song, focus on playing each note clearly and try different ways to express the music.

4. 'Ode to Joy' by Beethoven

This classic piece is not only famous but also perfect for learning. Its simple tune makes it great for new players.

• Scales: It mainly uses the D major scale (D-E-F#).
• Arpeggios: You can practice the D major arpeggio (D-F#-A).

Playing 'Ode to Joy' helps connect your technical practice with the beautiful classical music.

5. 'When the Saints Go Marching In'

This upbeat song has roots in American brass band music, making it a great choice for brass players.

• Scales: It uses notes from the C major scale.
• Arpeggios: You can practice F major (F-A-C) and C major (C-E-G) arpeggios, which are common in brass bands.

Focus on rhythm while playing this song to improve your musical expression.

6. 'Yankee Doodle'

This lively song has a fun melody and is linked to American history.

• Scales: You can use the C major scale (C-D-E).
• Arpeggios: This song allows you to practice the G major arpeggio (G-B-D).

Playing ‘Yankee Doodle’ helps you switch between different ways to play notes, making you a better player.

7. 'This Old Man'

This catchy tune lets you explore playing together with others.

• Scales: It uses the G major scale (G-A-B).
• Arpeggios: Practice the G major arpeggio (G-B-D) to understand the music's structure.

Playing this song with friends is fun and helps you work on timing.

8. 'Jingle Bells'

No musician should be without this holiday classic!

• Scales: It stays mostly within the C major scale.
• Arpeggios: You can practice the C major and F major arpeggios.

Playing 'Jingle Bells' makes practice more fun, especially in group settings!

9. 'Row, Row, Row Your Boat'

This easy song makes it fun to learn about harmony and playing together.

• Scales: It fits well with the C major scale.
• Arpeggios: Practice the C major and G major arpeggios as part of your warm-up.

The repeating parts help you feel more confident playing with others.

10. 'Amazing Grace'

This nostalgic hymn can be played many ways, letting you express yourself.

• Scales: It can fit in C major or G major.
• Arpeggios: Practice the accompanying arpeggios to support the melody.

Playing ‘Amazing Grace’ helps you show your emotions when making music.

How to Include Songs in Your Practice

1. Start with Scales: Begin by playing different scales related to the songs you want to practice. This helps your muscles get used to playing.

2. Move to Arpeggios: After scales, practice the related arpeggios. This sets a strong foundation for the music you will play.

3. Learn the Songs: Introduce the simple songs slowly. Start slow to make sure you’re hitting the right notes and keeping the right rhythm.

4. Mix Techniques: As you get better with a song, try adding some creative touches using scales and arpeggios.

5. Record Yourself: Consider recording your practice. Listening to yourself will help you see where you can improve and track your progress.

Putting together scales, arpeggios, and simple songs in your practice is a great way to grow as a musician. This method makes learning feel more enjoyable and helps you love playing your brass instrument even more. By connecting what you learn to actual music, you'll build important skills and also find joy in expressing yourself through music!