Sigma Alpha Iota

22 Spring 2023 • sai-national.org 22 Spring 2023 • sai-national.org A Wld of Music Continued from page 21 An entire section on the first floor was dedicated to the significant contributions and extensive instrument developments of Belgian native Antoine-Joseph "Adolphe" Sax (1814-1894). Many of his newly created and patented brass instruments were showcased by Sax as he conducted stage productions at the Paris Opera House; they soon were embraced by military brass bands and then quickly incorporated into civilian ensembles. Known as "saxhorns" by musicians of the day, Sax diligently worked to create "perfect" versions of these instruments, with common fingerings and vertical bell designs, which made changing from instrument to instrument much easier for musicians. On display were numerous models of the saxophone, as well as Sax's conical brass instruments, which he created between 1843 and 1845. is included his flugelhorns and tubas, as well as his experimental multi-valve and multi-bell curiosities, which did not last far beyond their creator. Our last full stop before lunch was the Second Floor, which was dedicated to keyboard instruments and newer innovations in music making. Exhibits ranged from the simple to the very ornate, with pianos, harpsichords, carillons, and organs of varying sizes and shapes. As we progressed through the galleries, we read about the development of new innovations to accommodate the changing demands from church and court music to music within the homes of everyday people. ere were numerous player pianos with paper or wooden rolls from the late 19th century, as well as examples of later coin-operated automatic music making machines, which became popular in pubs, dance halls, and at fairs. ese automatons were eventually replaced by the popularity of the radio and phonograph. e last section even included newer electronic keyboard examples, iPads, early phonographs, and a music notation typewriter. e Basement level housed the "Musicus Mechanicus" displays, which featured additional mechanical, electrical, and electronic instruments, including bell playing machines. On the way out we snapped up a book from the gi shop, 50 Unusual Instruments: MIM Visitor Favourites, available in three separate language formats; it showcases some of the more unique finds at the museum. We had a great morning exploring and plan to return when they have events, such as concerts, lectures, and festivals, in the future. Christine Bruns, an initiate of Epsilon Chapter at Ithaca College, is Editor of PAN PIPES and Director of the SAI Composers Bureau. She is currently living overseas while her husband, CW3 Robert Bruns, is assigned to NATO's SHAPE International Band. Above, a 68 key street organ, "Brusilla," Above, a 68 key street organ, "Brusilla," built by Arthur Bursens built by Arthur Bursens Below, an 1821 componium, built by Amsterdam Below, an 1821 componium, built by Amsterdam clockmaker Diederich Nicolaus Winke, designed to clockmaker Diederich Nicolaus Winke, designed to compose its own music. compose its own music.

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