The saxophone is one of the youngest instruments in the brass band, invented in 1842 by Adolphe Sax.
Its characteristic raspy sound and expressiveness makes it ideal as both a solo instrument and an ensemble instrument.
The saxophone's popularity endures today, but it is interesting to note that it was not always so.
The instrument often was associated with immorality, and was condemned by the Vatican in the early 20th century.
Though used first in military bands and slow to be accepted in orchestral groups, the saxophone has grown to be used in a wide variety of music genres and performance styles—including classical, jazz, big band, rock, blues and pop.
