When people think of the saxophone, some elements that come to mind are jazz music, gold metal and Kenny G. The saxophone consists of these, but it is also much more. Playing the saxophone is a great experience that everyone should try. Although playing the saxophone can take time and money, it is a great investment because it is a unique instrument with many benefits. There are many types of saxophones, but only a few are commonly used. The most common are alto, baritone, tenor and soprano saxophones. Most beginners start on the alto saxophone. After learning the basics of the viola, players can then move on to another type of saxophone. One of the designs of the saxophone is that all finger positions are the same, no matter what type of saxophone one is playing. Constance Meyer states in the Los Angeles Times: “It [the saxophone] was invented in the 1840s by the Belgian Adolphe Sax. for military bands and orchestral use. Although the saxophone is still used in orchestras and military bands, most people today associate it with jazz music. The saxophone is one of the many symbols of jazz and became popular thanks to jazz. Musicians such as Charlie Parker and John Coltrane became famous playing jazz on the saxophone. Saxophones are used in many types of music because they produce a sound that blends well with other instruments and can be played with any style of music. Saxophonist and composer Tommy Smith expresses in his own words the breadth of a saxophone's musical palette. “The sonic possibilities of the saxophone are limitless, like an auditory kaleidoscope. His sound inspires sensuality but he [sic] can lash out and scream in anger and frustration. his physique too. Playing the saxophone requires coordination. A person must coordinate their eyes, fingers, facial muscles and breathing in order to produce music. The breathing techniques used when playing the saxophone strengthen the lungs and stomach muscles. Practicing the saxophone will help a person in sports and other physical activities. Made famous thanks to jazz, the saxophone is a unique instrument used today in most musical groups. Playing the saxophone helps improve mental and physical abilities. Most importantly, playing the saxophone is fun. Works Cited Meyer, Constance. “On a more serious note.” Los Angeles Times (Los Angeles, CA). March 13, 2005: np SIRS Renaissance. Internet. March 13, 2011. Ardley, Neil. Music: an illustrated encyclopedia. New York: Facts On File Publications, 1986.Print.