Saxophones are intricate instruments with numerous parts. The saxophone is divided into four sections: the neck, the body, the bow, and the bell. The saxophone parts in each section are more complex. On the neck, you’ll find the mouthpiece, neck cork, octave vent, and tenon. The keys, rods, and tone holes are all found on the body of the saxophone.
The neck of a saxophone is curved like a gooseneck. The mouthpiece is the part of the mask that a person blows into and is attached to the top of the neck. It is made up of a reed that is held in place by a ligature. The mouthpiece is attached to the neck by the neck cork.
The octave vent is usually found near the base of the neck. It is made up of a single key and hole that, when compressed, changes the saxophone’s octave. The tenon is one of the most overlooked saxophone parts on the neck. The tenon is a band that connects the neck of the saxophone to the body. It can affect the instrument’s performance if it isn’t adjusted properly.
A person will find an intricate series of saxophone parts called keys below the neck, along the body of the instrument. The keys are spring-loaded mechanisms that cover and reveal tone holes to produce the desired notes. A rod is operated when a player compresses a key. The key’s part that covers and uncovers the tone holes is attached to the rod. On the body, there are two main groups of keys: one for the right hand and another for the left.
The bow is a U-shaped base at the bottom of the body on most saxophones. Many people consider the bow to be one of the most important saxophone parts, as it contributes to the instrument’s distinct sound and appearance. Some saxophones, particularly the sopranino and soprano, do not have a bow and are played straight like a clarinet. The spatula keys are two sets of keys that are grouped together by the bow. Various protective key guards can be found along the bow’s length.
The bell finishes off the bow. The flared-out part of the saxophone is known as the bell. Because saxophones come in a variety of sizes, the bell’s exact size and shape varies. Bell keys are two large, round keys that run along the sides of the bell.
Other saxophone parts that are less obvious but still play an important role Before the bow, most saxophones have a thumb rest near the base of the body. The thumb rest is a hook-shaped metal or plastic piece that a player uses to support the instrument with his or her right thumb. Many saxophones have a small metal loop a few inches above the thumb rest. This loop is for attaching a neck strap to make playing more comfortable.