Ahhh, the Saxophone. That sultry wail on a mist-ridden street, the seductive tones of Kenny G, and the rich warm sound of a jazzy riff. These sounds truly capture the heart and imagination of their listeners, and have since the instrument first came on the scene. From professional musicians like the jazz legend Johnny Hodges, to Bill Clinton, the former president of the United States, the Saxophone knows no boundaries of class or race. If you’ve never really taken the time to enjoy the beautiful music of this instrument, Saxophone Day is your time to indulge.
History of Saxophone Day
The Saxophone is a woodwind instrument that was developed by a second generation Belgian instrument designer by the name of Adolphe Sax in 1846. His goal was to create the most powerful and adaptable brass woodwind instrument to fill the perceived gap between their respective sections. While it was initially developed to be used in classical music, the diversity of the saxophone has found its way into just about every type of music you can imagine.
From its creation, there have been multiple derivations of the saxophone, from the Alto (being the most common) all the way up the scale to the Sopranissimo (a very high pitched instrument) all the way down to the Subcontrabass (the deepest throated of the saxophones). Though developed to be the balancing point between brass and woodwind instruments, the saxophone is classified, officially, as a woodwind.
NATIONAL SAXOPHONE DAY ACTIVITIES
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Plan a magical date
Take a special someone for a musical date night to a live jazz bar or concert. Not only is this a unique and cultural experience, but it’s a great way to enjoy food and drink while listening and swaying to the rhythms and emotions that the saxophone contributes to jazz and blues music.
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Dance fit
Dance yourself fit to either a ‘jazzercise’ choreographed number or tap dance to a soulful jazz masterpiece. Exercise dance classes are becoming more and more popular as a fun and creative way to burn calories and improve your overall fitness.
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Play the blues
Learning to play the saxophone not only adds to your list of talents but also makes a great conversation starter. Already know how to play? Why not join a local jazz or blues band and play some of the popular classics or create new ones.
KEY NOTES OF THE SAXOPHONE
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The one and only
Not only is the saxophone the only brass wind instrument, but it is also the only musical instrument invented by one person.
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Vocal range
The saxophone has the widest range of woodwind instruments, including the ability to closely mimic the human voice, making it an excellent addition for emotional music pieces.
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Not just for jazz
Today, the saxophone is best known for its contributions to jazz and blues music, as well as for its classical-music beginnings and contributions.
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Bridging the gap
This single instrument was created to provide a tonal balance between the brass- and woodwind families.
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Music appreciation through television
“The Muppet Show’s” character Zoot was named and inspired by the famous saxophone players Zoot Sims and Gato Barbieri.
NATIONAL SAXOPHONE DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | November 6 | Saturday |
| 2022 | November 6 | Sunday |
| 2023 | November 6 | Monday |
| 2024 | November 6 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | November 6 | Thursday |
