Overview and History of the Saxophone

The saxophone was invented approximately in 1842 by Adolph Sax. The first saxophones were played in Paris at that time and were intended to be a part of the classical orchestra. Striving for a combination of both the beauty of the violin and strength of the brass section, the sax failed to find its place in the modern orchestra. It was the jazz musicians of the 1920s and '30s who were finally able to put the sax in its rightful place. Sidney Bechet and Coleman Hawkins were among the first of that era to bring popularity to this beautiful instrument. Since the jazz age, the saxophone has been an important part of all the major western styles of music from jazz to blues to rock and pop.

Age to Start Saxophone Lessons

Young children can begin sax lessons as soon as seven or eight years old. The larger saxophones can be rather large instruments, so take this into consideration when choosing an instrument for a child. The saxophone is also a great instrument for adults wishing to learn another instrument or pick one up for the first time.

Procuring an Instrument

Many student and intermediate models can be purchased or rented at a reasonable price. There are four main kinds of saxophone: the soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone. In addition to an instrument, the correct stiffness of reeds is also a consideration to be discussed with your Saxophone teacher. Generally, new students on the sax should choose reeds that are softer rather than harder.

Benefits of Saxophone Lessons

Saxophone lessons will teach the basic techniques of reading, theory, and sound production. Using a classical repertoire will give the students the fundamentals they need to play the style of their choice later on in their music education. For more advanced sax students, sax lessons will teach improvisation as it can be applied to jazz, blues, and modern popular music. Saxophone lessons will help the student find their own individual voice and to make that voice fit in any style they wish to pursue.

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