Baritone Saxophone Information
The baritone saxophone is the lowest member of the saxophone family commonly used in musical ensembles. This instrument was one of the members of the 14 instrument group invented to be present in every musical style available at the time. The style that was not present at the time--jazz--later proved to be the baritone saxophone's most common application.
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History
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The baritone saxophone was invented by Adolphe Sax in 1841. According to the "New Harvard Dictionary of Music," the instrument was later patented in Paris, France, in 1846 when Sax settled there.
Pitch
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The baritone saxophone is pitched in Eb (E flat). This pitch classification means that the instrument will sound a major sixth (M6) below what is written. In addition, the instrument always sounds an octave lower than written.
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Writing
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Baritone saxophone music is written in the treble clef. Music often uses the baritone saxophone to double the tuba part. In this way, baritone saxophone music often plays notes on strong beats to provide the "pulse" of music.
Size
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The baritone saxophone's large size and weight often limits its applications. Baritone saxophones typically weigh between 13 and 14 pounds. This weight is offset by a strap connected to the top of the instrument and is designed to be placed around the back of the musician's neck.
Key Structure
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The key structure of the baritone saxophone is similar to that of other members in the saxophone family. For this reason, baritone saxophone players can often play multiple saxophones after learning how to play the single instrument.
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