Early Saxophone History

In this video, Vandoren Artist Clinician Dr. Matthew Younglove discusses the early history of the saxophone. Topics include its inventor, Adolphe Sax, the invention and early use of the instrument, and its ups and downs in music education and performance along the way.

0:22 The very beginning
2:19 The first saxophone
3:53 Why is there no saxophone in orchestras
6:54 Example of saxophone concerto
7:27 Composers liked Adolf Sax
8:30 French Military bands
9:08 Different keys of saxophone
9:36 First class of saxophone
10:34 Jazz saxophone
10:50 Conclusion

About Dr. Matthew Younglove

Concert saxophonist and pedagogue Matthew Younglove, a South Carolina native, has performed concerts and recitals across the United States, France, and the UK. He currently serves on the faculty of Wayne State University in Detroit, MI, and is pursuing the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Contemporary Music at Bowling Green State University, in Bowling Green, OH. Additionally, he has served on the faculties of the University of South Carolina and Edinboro University of Pennsylvannia.

Younglove is a Presser Scholar and graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of South Carolina where he earned his Bachelor of Music degree in Saxophone Performance. He completed graduate studies at Northwestern University earning a Master of Music in Saxophone Performance. His principle teachers include Connie Akers, Frederick Hemke, Clifford Leaman, and John Sampen.