Started as a repair company, Japan’s Yanagisawa Wind Instruments have been in the musical instruments business since 1893. In 1954 Yanagisawa launched their first saxophone, the T3 tenor. Soon after, in 1956, they introduced the A-3 alto saxophone. Today, as one of the leading saxophone manufacturers in Japan, Yanagisawa is known for its complete range of professional-grade, intermediate, and student saxophones.

At Yanagisawa, the most important priority in saxophones has always been "that sound." It is the open, airy sound we know from some of our favorite albums. Most professional saxophonists will also tell you that they’re looking for "that sound," and they will play older saxophones precisely because they can produce it. Unfortunately, musicians playing older instruments have had to compensate for the inadequacies of the tuning and action of these vintage saxophones in order to get "that sound."

After much research, Yanagisawa achieved a sound very close to the sound of the older saxophones using alloys of bronze. Their prototypes eventually led to the release of the Yanagisawa 992 series saxophones. This instrument line, offering saxophonists comfortable fast action, precision tuning, and "that sound," was launched in 1998. The success of the -992 series prompted the introduction of an affordable range of bronze saxophones. A straight soprano saxophone, the S-902, was introduced in 2000, quickly followed by alto, tenor, and baritone models in 2001.

Prior to that, in 1973 Yanagisawa had begun production of handmade metal and hard-rubber mouthpieces. Yanagisawa saxophone mouthpieces are consistently in high-demand, thanks to their uniform quality and dependability.

Other Yanagisawa milestones have included introduction of the first baritone saxophone made in Japan in 1967, and the first Japanese-made soprano sax in 1969. 1972 saw the release of the Yanagisawa SN-6, the world's first sopranino saxophone with a high E key. Jazz virtuoso Sonny Rollins now owns the first-ever Yanagisawa sopranino sax.

With a company motto of “Yanagisawa pursues technology" their engineers have designed saxophones that are delicate yet powerful, soft yet comfortable, and truly a delight to play. With the aim of accommodating all saxophone players, today’s Yanagisawa prides itself on satisfying musicians’ demanding needs.

Woodwind & Brasswind is proud to offer high-quality Yanagisawa musical instruments for musicians from professional to beginner. Yanagisawa instruments and music accessories are backed by The Woodwind & Brasswind’s 110% Price Guarantee, assuring that you won’t find Yanagisawa musical instruments at a lower price anywhere else.