Care to guess which musical instrument Belgian inventor Adolphe Sax created? If you said “the saxophone,” you’re right. In 2024 Belgium is marking the 200th anniversary of Sax’s birth with a wide range of cultural events and exhibitions across the country, centered on his native town of Dinant and key cultural venues in Brussels.
In Brussels, the Musical Instruments Museum is presenting a dedicated exhibition that explores the history and influence of the saxophone, alongside Sax’s lesser-known brass inventions such as the saxhorn and saxotromba. The display also highlights a selection of medical instruments Sax designed, offering visitors a fuller picture of his inventive legacy. The exhibition runs through January 11, 2015.
Dinant, where Adolphe Sax was born, is hosting a number of on-the-ground events and walking routes that celebrate his life and work. The town has produced a special map and brochure titled Sax and the City, which outlines self-guided routes to Sax-related sites and lists scheduled events for visitors. Highlights include the 17th annual Leffe Jazz Nights international festival, held July 18–20 at the Saint-Norbert Park on the grounds of the Leffe Abbey, which brings top jazz performers to the scenic riverside setting.
Throughout July and August, Dinant also presents “Mr. Sax’s Sundays,” a series of afternoon concerts staged at venues along the Meuse River. These free or ticketed live-music events create a festive atmosphere on weekend afternoons and make the town a vibrant destination for saxophone enthusiasts and general audiences alike.
For aspiring performers, the Adolphe Sax International Competition is another principal event on the calendar. Open to saxophonists under the age of 31, the competition takes place October 25–November 8 and attracts young talent from around the world, offering a platform for emerging artists to compete and be noticed by professional juries.
Together, the museum exhibition, public concerts, festivals, and the international competition form a yearlong tribute that both honors Adolphe Sax’s technical achievements and celebrates the saxophone’s lasting impact on jazz, classical, and contemporary music. Visitors to Belgium during the anniversary year can combine cultural sightseeing with live-music experiences, following the curated routes in Dinant to discover historical sites, statues, and venues connected to Sax’s life.
Whether you’re a musician, history buff, or traveler seeking a musical-themed itinerary, the 200th anniversary activities provide multiple ways to engage with Adolphe Sax’s legacy. Plan ahead using Dinant’s Sax and the City brochure for route maps and schedules, and check local listings for up-to-date information on concerts, exhibition hours, and competition registration.