The saxophone was invented in 1841 by a Belgian clarinetist named Adolphe Sax. After settling in Paris, Sax patented his new invention in 1846. The instrument soon became popular across all of France. Many American musicians visiting Europe took a liking to the saxophone, and it soon found a home in America, where it has remained popular ever since. Adolphe Sax actually created 14 different sizes of saxophones, seven for orchestra pitched in C and F, and seven for band, pitched in Bb and Eb. The only saxophones still in common use today are the Eb Alto Saxophone, the Bb Tenor Saxophone, and the Eb Baritone Saxophone.
The saxophone was invented to be a bridge between the woodwind and brass sections, and to boost the sound of the woodwind section in military bands. The instrument's combination of metal body and wooden reed allows it to blend equally well with brass or woodwind instruments. However, the saxophone is classified as a member of the woodwind family because of its flute-like key system and use of a reed.
Today Alto, Tenor, & Baritone saxophones are played in concert and marching bands, jazz ensembles, small chamber groups, and occasionally in orchestras. They are often featured as solo instruments.
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