Cobweb Audio Music Articles

Vintage Saxophones

By Kristy Annely

A saxophone is a musical instrument belonging to the woodwind category. It is one of the youngest musical instruments, invented by Adolphe Sax, a Belgian, in the 1840s. Later, many people made their own alterations to the instrument. Saxophones were generally used in the military and in big orchestras but are now found in smaller bands as well. They are generally used for big band music, pop music and jazz. There are many kinds of saxophones but the four most common ones are: Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Baritone saxophones.

Vintage saxophones may not be in great playing condition, but are generally bought for collection purposes. Some suppliers also sell vintage saxophones that are repaired and in good condition. They can also be custom-restored to suit individual requirements. Some manufacturers offer one-year guarantees on restored saxophones.

Otherwise, vintage saxophones are sold in “as is” condition to retain their original and antique value. Vintage saxophones can have frills like hand engravings on them. They are also generally gold- or silver-plated instead of being lacquered like the new saxophones.

Here is a sampling of the vintage saxophones available at one dealer: King - super 20 and zephyr; Selmer - mark VII, mark VI, super balanced action, balanced action, super, radio improved, and cigar cutter; Buescher - true tone, aristocrat, and 400 top hat and cane; Conn - Chu Berry, conqueror (26 and 30M), and lady face (4M, 6M, 10M, and 12M); Martin - handcraft, magna and committee.

Vintage saxophones can be found at local music stores or in antique shops. They can also be found by browsing some special sites on the Internet, which provides hundreds of choices in vintage saxophones. However, some Internet dealers sell fake vintage saxophones. Some suppliers of vintage saxophones offer certificates of guarantee, or even warranties.

Saxophones provides detailed information about saxophones, jazz saxophones, soprano saxophones, alto saxophones and more. Saxophones is the sister site of Violins Web.