Museum of Making Museum Introduces Visitors to the Sound of Saxophone in Special Exhibition

The saxophone’s rich and often surprising story is celebrated in the Museum of Making Music’s newest special exhibition, The Sound of Sax:  How the Saxophone won America’s Soul, on display for eight months beginning May 19 at the Museum’s Carlsbad location (5790 Armada Drive).

From its European birth during the Industrial Revolution in 1846, to its journey across the Atlantic and into military bands, orchestras, vaudeville, jazz, rock and beyond, the history of the saxophone is explored in the Museum of Making Music’s new, temporary display. The exhibit shares the powerful story of how music is made – an endless cycle of innovation as ancient as music itself, where musician, composer, listener and manufacturer stretch the boundaries of sound, composition and performance.

Internationally renowned jazz saxophonist Charles McPherson will join the Museum for a concert-conversation event celebrating the launch of The Sound of Sax on May 19, 2012, 7 p.m. McPherson, who has more than 50 years of jazz experience and has shared his music with the world through tours in Europe, Japan, Africa and South America, joins the Museum in celebrating the saxophone’s impact on music, society and the music industry. Concert tickets cost $30 for Museum members and $35 for general admission, and include entry to the exhibition opening reception beginning at 5:30 p.m. Visit www.MuseumofMakingMusic.org for more information and to purchase tickets.

 “Countless musical genres have embraced the flexible, often voice-like qualities of the saxophone, and it has become an integral part of the world’s sound landscape,” said Carolyn Grant, executive director at the Museum of Making Music. “This special exhibition celebrates the saxophone’s unique story and complements the Museum’s permanent galleries, which explore the diverse history of music making through engaging displays and hands-on instrument areas.”

The Sound of Sax:  How the Saxophone won America’s Soul presents a visually stunning display of saxophones ranging from historic pieces hand-built by Adolphe Sax to models associated with major musical styles and artifacts representative of iconic musicians. Special programs, including jazz, classical and contemporary performances, and intimate conversations with musicians, will accompany the exhibition.

About the Museum of Making Music

Since opening to the public in 2000, the Museum of Making Music has become a cultural destination with interactive and educational programs and exhibits.  The Museum showcases the evolution of musical instruments from the late 19th century to present day in five galleries, and regularly hosts intimate concerts and hands-on workshops to introduce the public to the history of American music products.

The Museum of Making Music is located at 5790 Armada Drive in Carlsbad, Calif.  General admission to the museum is $8; $5 for students, seniors and active military.  Children ages five and under receive free admission.  The Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., and is closed Mondays.  For more information, please call 760/438-5996 or visit www.MuseumofMakingMusic.org.