If you would adopt a formalist approach, what would you focus on in your analysis of your chosen object? What conclusions could you draw?
- I would focus on the formal qualities of the saxophone such as its shape, structure, materials, and craftsmanship. while also highlighting the visual aesthetics like the polished metal surface, elegant curves which portrays its artistic identity. this could help lead the discussion into how design improvements expanded its technical and harmonic capabilities in jazz performance.
- I could also examine how the brass body and reed mouthpiece combine wind and brass elements, creating a hybrid tonal quality. in addition to this I would try to analyse the curved design and key mechanism, which enable fluid melodic movement
- I would study the timbre and tonal range, noting how the instrument’s acoustics produce warmth, depth, and expressive vibrato.
Conclusion
- The saxophone’s formal design directly shapes its musical expressiveness, making it essential to the development of jazz style and sound.
CAD4016 Academic Journal 