- The saxophone was first patented by Adolphe Sax, a Belgian musician, in 1846, 5 years after his original invention. He released the instrument in two groups of seven instruments, each based on a different transposition (the range of notes an instrument is capable of producing within a set). The B-flat and E-flat transpositions have become the standard versions played today, though some C and F instruments remain in use. Originally designed for use in military bands, the class of saxophone instruments has expanded to nearly every musical genre, notably jazz and big band. However, many musical standards in rock and roll, punk, ska and even classical have been recorded with this versatile instrument.
- If you're learning to play saxophone, you'll first need to identify which saxophone you'd like to play. Baritone (and, more rarely, contrabass) saxophones claim the lowest scale attainable, and are large instruments (roughly four feet in length) that require strong air pressure and control to play properly. Tenor saxophones reach a range between baritone and alto saxophones, and are more manageable in terms of size and weight. Alto saxophones, the most commonly played in most Western countries, attain a higher range of notes and are an excellent way to begin learning the air control methods needed to play other saxophones. Soprano (and, more rarely, sopranino) saxophones resemble clarinets and achieve the highest range of sounds of these four styles.
- Saxophones are most commonly made from brass, although some are made from other metals, and are hammered thin into an elongated cylinder. Soprano and sopranino saxophones remain straight, but to keep size manageable without sacrificing sound, the alto, tenor and baritone saxophones are created with a bell-shape opening upwards at the end. An intricate system of keys is placed over the tube, using rods and pad cups with pads made of plastic or mother of pearl. Saxophones, though made of brass, are not referred to as "brass" instruments; they're classified as woodwinds because of the structure of their mouthpiece. The mouthpiece, a removable piece made most often of plastic, holds a thin reed made of wood (similar to a clarinet's reed) with a steel band. The action of blowing through the mouthpiece vibrates the wood and creates the sound. Most of the lower range of saxophones also have a neck-piece attachment on the back of the instrument, where a harness can be hooked to be worn around the player's neck. This helps to hold the heavier instruments up while playing.
- Saxophones are wonderful instruments to learn, but there are some considerations to be made when choosing an instrument to play. Fortunately, the various types of saxophones make it easy to find one that suits your abilities, skills and desires. As with all wind instruments, it's important to consider your breathing ability and any mouth or dental problems before attempting to play. For example, people with dentures or dental implants may have more difficulty forming the controlled shape needed to create sound through the mouthpiece. Additionally, those with shoulder, neck or back conditions should check with a physician before playing one of the heavier instruments, which are supported with a neck-piece.
- The saxophone, in all its forms, has a long history of musical greatness. From the military bands it was designed for, the instrument has made its way through famous jazz quartets, swinging big bands, talented solo and duet performances, orchestras, concert bands, marching bands and more. Choosing to learn this instrument will place you in a long line of dedicated musicians who have enriched the history of music with their unique contributions. Good luck on your way to becoming a saxophonist!
