|
|
|
| The saxophone is classified as a woodwind because it is played using a reed. But it's made of brass. It's a kind of a cross between a woodwind and a brass instrument. The saxophone has a single reed and a mouthpiece like a clarinet, but it has a metal body with a flared bell. There are four major types of saxophones, each playing a different range of notes: soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone. Saxophones make a strong, mellow sound. |
Performers: Miles Davis All Stars Piece: All of You Featuring: John Coltraine |
 |
Danielle is playing an alto saxophone here. Because it's a little heavy, she has a neck strap attached to the instrument. The tone holes are spread out much further than her fingers could ever reach. So a complex system of rods links the keys to these distant tone holes, allowing her to play the lower notes.
Adolphe Sax invented the saxophone in 1846, the same year as the sewing machine was invented. The saxophone was originally supposed to be used in military bands. Today, it is used mainly in jazz, rock, blues, and pop. You'll hear it a lot in music on television and movies, too. Orchestras sometimes need a saxophone to play solo parts. |
 |
|
|
|
