Evolution of the Saxophone: From Military Bands to Modern Jazz

History of the Saxophone Will Horton

Origin The Saxophone was first patented by Belgian inventor and musician Adolphe Sax in 1846. He created many versions of this instrument, each having a unique range, however the soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone saxophone have remained useful in ensembles, with the bass only being used in rare occasions. His reasoning for creating this new instrument was a result of his belief that there needed to be an instrument to bridge the gap between brass, woodwind, and stringed instruments. He created the saxophone, a single reeded instrument made out of brass.

Sax's Hopes Adolphe Sax had two goals for his instrument: he wanted it to be a part of military bands, and to be a part of the orchestra. His goal for the saxophone in the military band context was fulfilled, with the French Military bands adopting the sax in the mid 1800's in order to improve the power of their ensembles. His goal for the saxophone in the orchestra context was not fulfilled, with only a few composers deciding to use the instrument.

Military Bands Before adopting the saxophone, France's military bands often invoked laughter from onlookers. The French, desperate to improve their sound, reluctantly adopted Adolphe Sax's new instrument into their military bands. The result was an immediate increase in quality, which not only attracted the attention of viewers, but also from military bands around the world. Military bands were so impressed with the quality of the saxophone that the letters came rushing to Sax's, asking for his instruments. This helped the saxophone reach worldwide appeal, which actually helped the saxophone survive the extinction it faced later.

Orchestras The reasoning behind musicians refusing to use the saxophone is somewhat complex. Many musicians held animosity towards Sax due to his proud nature, and his history of trying to "improve" established orchestral instruments. Early saxophones also could not provide the tone quality or precision necessary for an orchestra (although these issues were fixed in future designs for the saxophone). A few composers did write for orchestral saxophones, but these works were few and far between, most famously Maurice Ravel's "Bolero" and Sergei Prokofiev's ballet "Romeo and Juliet"

Fall into Obscurity In the late 19th century, the saxophone fell into a slump of sorts. The saxophone was only being used in military bands, and people seemed to be unwilling to try to innovate with the saxophone. However, it's use in military bands let the saxophone be spread and recognized around the world, including the location where Jazz was born: New Orleans

A Revival Jazz began in New Orleans in the early 20th century. Characterized by improvisation, syncopation, and strong rhythms, it became a staple genre of music. The saxophone was not immediately used in jazz bands; clarinets were the woodwind instrument used in these groups. However, around 1915, this changed. The saxophone was introduced to jazz ensembles. The rest is history. The saxophone is considered by many to be the iconic instrument of jazz.

Jazz (continued) Later in the mid 20th century, as the players increased in skill, the music increased in difficulty. The saxophone has been able to keep up with the demands of the performer and the audience alike. Famous saxophonists in this genre include John Coltrane, Cannonball Adderley, and many others. These ambitious musicians have pushed Jazz saxophone to the standard it is held at today.

Classical Saxophone, a New Form The classical saxophone is what I believe to be the "second school of thought" in regard to the instrument. IN the 1930's, the saxophone was becoming popular in concert bands (not orchestras, there is a difference). However, the saxophone seemed limited compared to other instruments used in bands, especially in regard to range. The saxophone's range is naturally limited, it has the range of a low Bb to a F above the staff (admittedly very lacking). Sigurd Rascher however created a method for playing tones above the saxophone's "Natural range". These higher notes have been named "top tones", or otherwise known as "altissimo". This new innovation allowed composers to write a greater range for the saxophone, enriching the literature available for the instrument.

Classical Saxophone (continued) With Sigurd Rascher's improvements in the range of the instrument, as well as techniques like vibrato, the saxophone has become an immensely expressive instrument, capable of creating musicality unique to this instrument. Much like jazz, classical saxophone literature has increased in both size and difficulty. The classical saxophone is less popular and recognizable compared to jazz saxophone, however it should be regarded as equal in terms of respect. Famous classical saxophonists include Otis Murphy, Eugene Rousseau, and many others.

Conclusion Though it may be a relatively young instrument, the saxophone has a very interesting history. Created for a purpose it still hasn t filled, the instrument fell into obscurity, only to be saved by the culture created by Jazz. This instrument has become a staple of concert bands, and remains one of the most recognizable instruments by people who have no experience with instruments. We may not know what the future holds for this instrument, but I for one look forward to watching this instrument evolve beyond what I could imagine possible.;

URLs https://www.theinstrumentplace.com/history-of-the-saxophone/ http://www.bsmny.org/exploring-music/features/iid/saxophone/2.php http://gcornish.digitalscholar.rochester.edu/MHS123_Fall2017/uncategorized /history-of-the-saxophone/ http://www.jazzinamerica.org/lessonplan/5/1/249