Saxophone
Saxophones come in multiple sizes and keys. The most popular sizes are the Eb Alto and Bb Tenor, although most school bands have at least one Eb Baritone sax. The Bb soprano sax is popular in jazz but is seldom used in school bands or orchestras. There is also a Bb bass saxophone below the baritone in pitch, and an Eb sopranino saxophone above the soprano sax in pitch.
Almost all school saxophonists begin on the Eb Alto sax, commonly called the “alto.” A musician who learns to play one saxophone can easily transfer his talents to the other saxophones, as the playing mechanism is virtually the same.
How does the Saxophone work?
Vibrations are created as the stream of air hits the tip of the reed (Click here to learn more about reeds.). The frequency of the vibration is determined by the distance the air must travel before escaping from the saxophone. Tone holes are carefully positioned on the body of the instrument to create the best intonation possible for each note. However, no saxophone is perfectly in-tune, and consequently some notes must be “lipped” into tune. As each key is depressed, its pad (round felt covered with soft leather) stops the airflow through that tone hole. As the distance the air must travel increases, the tone gets lower.
There are different types of Saxophones?
Unlike clarinets and flutes where a single construction material constitutes the primary difference between beginner and step-up instruments, step-up saxophones are differentiated by a collection of features.
As with other instruments, beginner saxophones are made to be tough and durable; extra features and mechanisms as well as fine adjustments and cosmetic improvements are left off to keep the price down. Beginner saxophones are designed primarily to hold up well while the player learns to handle a saxophone and play basic music.
Within a year or so of playing, saxophonists learn to handle their instruments properly and differences in tone, response, and ease of execution become more important.
The differences step-up saxophones offer include key mechanisms that make the instrument easier to play and extend its range (high F# and G for alto saxes, low A for baritones). Some step-up saxes are made of better materials, such as annealed brass. Ribbed construction gives the mechanisms more stability and allows the instrument to retain fine adjustments better. Blued steel springs make the keys respond more quickly without requiring additional pressure to press the keys. An adjustable thumb rest allows the player to find the most comfortable position to hold the sax. More attention to key adjustment and tone hole covering in final assembly help give it a quick and true response. A detachable bell makes the instrument easier for technicians to keep in top playing condition. And cosmetic improvements including brass keys, extra engraving, and mother-of-pearl finger buttons make it more visually appealing.
Although saxophonists can get by with a beginner instrument longer than flutists or clarinetists, band students who want to reach their musical potential and sound their best should have at least an intermediate saxophone. Very serious saxophonists need performer or top-line saxophones.
What's the difference between Saxophones?
Saxophones can look very similar even to regular players. However, there are some very important differences between certain types and brands of saxophones.
Intonation is one of the key differences. Many brands of saxophones are not made to be played in bands or with other instruments - they do not play in tune with other instruments. An instrument that won't be played with other instruments is less expensive to manufacture, but when it is used in a band it creates frustration to the player, the director, and other band members. If the instrument is going to be used in a school band, please make sure the band director is familar and reccomends the brand of saxophone that you have found.
