Adolphe Sax revealed his creation in Paris, 1846. The saxophone has a conical metal tube with about 24 openings controlled by padded keys; the mouthpiece is a single reed mouthpiece like that of a clarinet. Except for the sopranino and one form of the B♭ soprano saxophone, that is built straight like a clarinet, saxophones have an upturned lower end and a detachable crook, or neck, at the upper end. Generally speaking you get a soprano, alto, tenor and baritone saxophone. Saxophone reeds are made from the giant cane ( which can grow up to 10 centimetres a day). The ligatures come in a variety of materials including metal, leather and plastics.
One of the most important components of a saxophone’s sound is the mouthpiece a player uses. Saxophone mouthpieces were originally made of wood. At first, they were made out of softer woods such as boxwood and later, primarily harder wood like rosewood. Upon the invention of vulcanized rubber, hard rubber mouthpieces became popular due to their strength and versatility and have stayed popular to this day with both jazz and classical players. Alternatively, professionals play metal mouthpieces providing a powerful tone that projects well. Plastic mouthpieces are the most popular choice for beginners as they are easy to make, durable, and relatively inexpensive.
Soprano Saxophone
Alto Saxophone
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone
Accessories
- Straps
- Cork Grease
- Pad Savers
- Pads
- Ligatures and Mouthpieces
- Stands
- Reeds
- Cleaning Kits
- Sheet Music
