Saxophone History

The saxophone was invented by Adolphe Sax in 1841. It was originally intended for use in military bands, and although it found success in this original purpose, it is now associated with jazz and other popular music.  

The saxophone was originally designed in two families of keys. A series of Bb and Eb instruments were created with the purpose of military bands in mind, and a series of C and F instruments were made for the purpose of orchestral use. Today, almost all saxophones that you find will be in the key of Bb or Eb, as the orchestral series never gained much popularity.

The saxophone is commonly associated with jazz, and has a firmly established place in this genre. Less commonly known is the saxophone’s role in classical music. There have been a good number of works composed for saxophone, and the saxophone quartet is a wonderful chamber group.