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Saxophone

Musical instrument

About

The saxophone is a versatile single-reed woodwind instrument, known for its wide range of timbres and adaptability across various musical genres. Invented by Adolphe Sax in the early 1840s, it was patented in 1846 as an instrument combining the qualities of woodwind and brass instruments. Saxophones are typically made of brass and come in several sizes, including soprano, alto, tenor, baritone, and bass, each offering distinct tonal characteristics. Saxophones are widely used in jazz, rock, classical, and pop music. The alto saxophone is particularly popular for its melodic versatility, while the tenor saxophone is iconic in jazz. The baritone saxophone provides a deep, rich sound often used in jazz and funk. Saxophones are transposing instruments, meaning their pitch differs from the written pitch. They require a reed on a mouthpiece to produce sound, and their pitch is controlled by keys that alter the instrument's length.