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Guide to Saxophones

Saxophone : What is it?

Saxophones1

The saxophone is a member of the woodwind family. It is a conical-bored instrument usually made of brass and played with a single-reed mouthpiece. It has a round or square evacuated inner chamber, a cork that adjusts to the neck, and a distinctively curved bell. Its conical shape gives it an acoustic property.

The saxophone has 21 to 23 keys. It produces different notes using a key system made up of pads and tone holes. Pressure is applied by fingering the keys, opening or closing one or more of the tone holes by lowering or lifting the pad.         

The saxophone was invented by Adolphe Sax in 1840.  It was originally made for military bands and orchestral music, but it is now commonly used in playing big band, pop, and jazz music.
 

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Types Of Saxophones

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Kinds of Saxophones include the following:

Soprano saxophone

  • The soprano saxophone is pitched in the key of B flat, one octave higher than the tenor. .
  • It can be either curved or straight.
  • The curved soprano saxophone is closer to the saxophone in sound, while the straight model has a more oboe-quality sound.
  • It produces an enchanting and ethereal sound.
  • It is difficult to learn.
  • It is not recommended for beginners.


Alto saxophone

  • The alto saxophone is a medium-sized saxophone pitched in the key of E flat.
  • It is the most commonly played saxophone.
  • It has a smaller mouthpiece compared to the soprano saxophone.
  • It is curved in a backwards “J” shape.
  • It is a powerful horn that produces an incredible tone.
  • It is ideal for beginners because of its size and shape.


Tenor saxophone

  • The tenor saxophone is larger than the alto saxophone.
  • It is pitched in the key of B flat.
  • It is most commonly used in jazz music.
  • It has a larger mouthpiece with longer rods and tone holes.
  • It is prone to damage due to its long neck.


Baritone saxophone


  • The baritone saxophone is the largest among the common types of saxophones.
  • It can have an extension attached to the end of the horn.
  • A baritone saxophone with an extension is called a low A baritone.
  • Its large shape and size makes it prone to damage.


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Choosing Saxophones (Buying Tips)

Finish:  For a darker tone with less high partials, choose a silver-plated saxophone.  For a darker timbre, choose a saxophone finished in a dark-colored lacquer. For a finish that would not affect the sound of the instrument, choose a saxophone made with a clear lacquer finish.    

Type: 
If you are a beginner, choose an alto saxophone since it requires less air and has a smaller key scale, making it easier to learn and play.

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Sources

Wikipedia

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