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The youngest instrument of the woodwind family, the saxophone has had a colorful history since its invention by the Belgian instrument-maker Adolphe Sax in the early 1840s. The saxophone's many roles span its initial uses in French opera and military bands, a celebrated body of solo and chamber music, a dominant role in jazz and vernacular music, and as an experimental medium within recent contemporary music. Alongside the early support from French composers such as Hector Berlioz, Jules Massenet, and Georges Bizet, Sax was the first to teach his new instrument at the Paris Conservatory. The instrument's musical birth in Paris paved way a concert repertoire predominantly based of French works.
This tradition continues today, not only through new French works and performers, but also through the manufacturing of saxophones, mouthpieces, and reeds. While interacting with French professionals and inspecting primary source materials in Paris, this course will examine these numerous roles of the saxophone in France since the 1840s. A study of Adolphe Sax's contribution, instrument development, early French saxophone literature, as well as French culture will be examined. In addition to visits to various musically and culturally related institutions.
French experts will offer guest lectures and observational opportunities.
A weekly lecture examining early saxophone development, repertoire, French culture/language, Parisian history/institutions, and travel preparations will culminate with a 6 day stay in Paris during Thanksgiving Recess, November 20-26, 2010. Guest lecturers will address topics such as an introduction to the French language, the city and culture of Paris, and travel preparation.
The course is open to both music majors and non-music majors. An interest in the saxophone is the sole prerequisite.
Activities will include:
- Observe Paris Conservatory Saxophone Studio Lessons taught by Claude Delangle
- Observe Lessons and have Masterclass by Jean-Michel Goury
- Tour Selmer Factory and Showroom
- Tour Vandoren Facilities
- Attend Brad Mehldau / Joshua Redman jazz concert.
- Attend IRCAM New Music Concert – Bernard Lang with Dance
- Visit Adolphe Sax's tomb, Musée de la Musique, Montmatre District, Sacré Coeur Basilica, Musée d'Orsay, Musée du Louvre, and other sites.
