Sax, Charles Joseph

1791-1865

Famous Belgian musical instrument-maker; born at Dinant, Meuse. He established a manufactory of brass instruments at Brussels, and also constructed flutes, clarinets, violins, pianos, harps and guitars. By careful investigation Sax determined the proportions for the scale of wind-instruments necessary to enable them to produce the fullest and roundest tone. He won several decorations and prizes at various exhibitions for his improvements in the manufacture of wood and brass wind-instruments. He was the father of Antoine or Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the Sax horn and Saxophones. He died in Paris in 1865.