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The baritone saxophone, past and present.

The baritone saxophone, invented by Adolphe Sax, is one of the larger members of the saxophone family. It is bigger than the tenor saxophone and smaller than the bass. The instrument has a single reed similar to a clarinet and its fingering system is based on that of the oboe. It has an extra loop near the mouthpiece, helping to keep it at a height that is practical. It is made of brass with a tapered bore.

a baritone saxophone The baritone saxophone is one of the more common saxophones in today's ensembles. The other three popular (smaller) members of the saxophone family are the alto, tenor, and soprano. But of the entire group, the tenor and alto are the most common. The baritone is in the key of E-Flat. Music is written not in the bass clef, but the treble clef.

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The bari sax comes in two sizes. One ranges to a low A and the other two a low B-Flat. The first horn is called "A bari" while the other is called "Bb bari". It must be noted that most of the music written for the baritone is written with a low Bb range.

The instrument is very big, heavy and cumbersome, and is therefore the most abused of the saxophone family. It is very prone to problems like tone hole damage, rod damage, body twists, and large dents. Due to its exceptional weight it is difficult to use the instrument in marching bands. As a result, a harness is used to distribute the weight of the baritone onto the player's back and not around the neck.

Popularity of the instrument

The instrument is more popular in classical music than orchestral music. However, it has played a major role in concert bands, military bands and wind ensembles.

Notable past and recent performers include Harry Carney, Gerry Mulligan, Pepper Adams, Hamiet Bluiett, John Surman, and Joe Temperley.

Related articles:

Baritone Saxophone
Saxophone Case
Used Saxophone

Further reading:

  • Professional Saxophone
  • Saxophone Info
  • Saxophone Shop
  • Saxophone Tips
  • Toy Saxophone

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    Bari Sax  starstarstar
    Hello i am a high schooler, i play the bari and i was wondering about the bari sax. I am thinking about going into collage to play. i made all county considering ...

    Getzen baritone Sax serial 4877  Not rated yet
    I have a Getzen elkhart baritone sax with serial number 4877, I would like to know tey year it was manufactured. thanks. Arnold from Holland

    Young Jazz Bari Sax Player - Tips  Not rated yet
    I've played the Bari for about 4 and a half months in my school's concert and jazz bands. I love playing this sax, after getting tired of the clarinet ...

    Bari Sax Problem (I NEED HELP!)  Not rated yet
    I'm really having problems with my bari sax in school. It starts out working beautifully but after about 10 min of playing it gets hard to play. I ...

    Baritone Saxophone under $5000  Not rated yet
    What are the best brands of baritone saxophones to purchase under $5000? On a budget and need to purchase one for college.

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