Saxophone

Saxophone

One of the most recognizable instruments in the woodwind family is the saxophone. Though the body of the instrument is made of brass, we put it in the woodwind family because it uses a single reed (like a clarinet). The reed is attached to the mouthpiece with a device called a ligature. Like the clarinet, the saxophone is a versatile instrument capable of playing both low and high notes, but generally plays louder sounds. Because of its shape and weight, the saxophone requires the use of a neck strap when playing. Although saxophones are often associated with jazz music, they really play in all types of musical settings, such as marching bands, concert bands, and chamber music.

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Above is a video featuring the Erie Saxophone Quartet. This group features all four types of saxophones (soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone). Try to hear the difference in sound and pitch amongst the different instruments. The highest instrument plays the theme first (soprano) and the lowest (baritone) is the last to play. Here, the group performs an arrangement of J.S. Bach's famous Fugue in G Minor.


 * Some famous saxophone players are Charlie Parker, Marcel Mule, John Coltrane, and Ed Fraedrich.
 * Although there are four main types of saxophones, we recommend that all fifth grade students study the alto saxophone for at least one year before switching to a larger instrument. In sixth grade, students may choose to switch to the tenor saxophone, and in middle school, the baritone saxophone.
 * If you like woodwind instruments but do not like the idea of playing a particularly loud instrument, the clarinet might be a better choice for you.
 * If you would like to learn a woodwind instrument but you do not want to play an instrument with reeds, the flute would be a good choice for you.
 * Trivia: The saxophone was created in the 1840s by a Belgian instrument designer named Adolphe Sax (hence the name). The saxophone to be a louder alternative to the clarinet, which already existed. By making the instrument out of brass instead of wood or plastic, the instrument is able to play at a much louder volume!

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