Today, the saxophone is most often associated with jazz, even though every now and then you'll find one in an orchestra. Charlie Parker was a famous jazz saxophonist. Jazz players often switch among the different ranges of saxophone, from a soprano - which is shaped like a clarinet - all the way down to a big baritone sax.

Here's a picture of an alto saxophone so you can see all the major parts.

The saxophone has a clarinet-like mouthpiece which fits onto the top of the instrument.

The ligature secures the reed in position.

The saxophone has keys that extend over much of its length. Each key covers a tone hole.

The saxophone is supported using a combination of a thumb rest and a neck strap.

The bell of the saxophone flares out. The bells of alto, tenor, and baritone saxophones are turned upward and lean slightly forward to help project the sound. Soprano saxophones have a bell that faces straight down, like a clarinet.
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