This book is both an overview and detailed look at one of the most innovative instruments of all time. Veteran musician Charlie Lagond tells the story of the saxophone's origin and inventor as well as of its single-reed forerunner, the clarinet. He delves into the saxophone's history and highlights some of its greatest players. The book explores basic techniques and styles and offers advice for choosing an instrument. Also covered are the motivating need for the saxophone, its qualities, the instrument's different models, its usage throughout its existence, and its influence on music. Interspersed throughout are pictures and listening references related to each chapter. An accompanying DVD features demonstrations by Lagond and his students, including the individual sound of each model as well as examples of stylistic phrasing, special effects, and ensemble playing. Lagond engages the school-age reader with a conversational, down-to-earth tone and the personal perspective of a professional saxophonist-clarinetist who began his love affair with these instruments when he was ten years old.