On this day in 1814 Adolphe Sax was born in Dinant in Wallonia, Belgium.  He was an instrument designer and maker.  What do you think he invented and patented? Just the sexiest instrument (apart from the electric guitar) in the world, that’s all.  He patented it on 28 June 1846.  Although feted by Hector Berlioz for new range of instruments and a job as an instructor Paris Consevatoire  on the strength of his designs it was not all plain sailing for Sax.

You will not be surprised to know that his patent was challenged by other instrument makers.  They pursued long and involved bouts of litigation against him.  He was made bankrupt twice because of the the litigation once in 1856 and again in 1873.

He died in Paris on the 4th (possibly the 7th) February 1894.

Whatever, Gerry Rafferty must have thanked his lucky stars for Adolphe………….