saxophones

The saxophone is a family of brass woodwind instruments that use a single-reed mouthpiece and a conical bore. Although made of brass, it is categorized as a woodwind instrument because of its reed mouthpiece. The most common sizes are soprano (in B-flat) and alto (in E-flat), with tenor (B-flat) and baritone (E-flat) also widely used.

Designed by Adolphe Sax in the 1840s, the saxophone was developed to blend the expressive tone of woodwinds with the projection of brass instruments. It was patented in 1846 and adopted into military bands and orchestras before gaining prominence in jazz in the early 20th century.

Built with a curved or straight neck, a brass body, and a bell, the instrument features a complex system of keys, pads, and ligatures that control a conical bore. Mouthpiece, reed, and ligature determine the instrument’s tonal color, from bright and cutting to dark and velvety.

Variations include sopranino, soprano, alto, tenor, baritone, bass, and rarer subtypes such as contrabass. Most players use mouthpieces with standard reeds and ligatures; barrels and necks influence intonation.

The saxophone plays a central role in modern jazz and popular music, as well as in some classical and contemporary compositions. Notable players include Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Stan Getz, and Lester Young, among others. It remains a common instrument in schools and studios worldwide.

Maintenance involves regular cleaning, careful handling of reeds, and occasional professional repads or adjustments. After playing, swab the body and dry the mouthpiece to prevent corrosion and maintain consistent intonation.