Backpacker Saxophone

Made up of a staggering 600 parts and weighing up to 8 pounds, a traditional saxophone rarely appears on hikes or at campgrounds. It’s a good thing maker Ron Marr dreamed up a more portable, player-friendly version of the woodwind section favorite. Using forgotten timber, often found on his lawn, Ron hollows and burns out each instrument’s sound chamber, which is charred, sanded, and smoothed to a slick finish. Then he drills and tunes six holes (rather than the standard 25) before affixing a copper plumbing elbow and adding that signature sax mouthpiece. The result is a travel-ready wooden twist on an old favorite capable of delivering a warm sax/clarinet combination tone that beginners and pro horn players will love picking up and playing out. Handmade in Missouri.