What is a Saxophone?
The Saxophone is a member of the woodwind family. Sound is produced by a vibrating single reed which is the same sound producing method as the clarinet. The saxophone is one of the easiest woodwind instruments to play, but one of the more challenging to make a good sound. Characteristics Needed The Saxophone is a fairly forgiving instrument and can accommodate many different players. However, students with a significant underbite will have difficulty forming their mouth correctly on the mouthpiece. Students with small hands will also have difficulty reaching around the instrument to push on the keys correctly. What role does the Saxophone play in band? Although is it a relatively new instrument, the saxophone is very widely used. In band they support the other instruments in most music. However, as students get older, they will have the opportunity to play in Jazz Bands where the saxophone is the primary lead role. It is especially common to see a number of saxophones of various sizes in all kinds of bands. Other Details The saxophone is a rental instrument that is not provided by the school. Because it is naturally a loud instrument when compared to the others, the class size is limited to provide good balance with the rest of the band, much in the same way a good cookie recipe requires correct proportions of ingredients for a good cookie. It is the easiest woodwinds to play, but challenging to get a good sound. The instrument is heavier than others requiring the student to use a neck strap to support the weight. |
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