Episode 13: Glissotar: a Keyless Saxophone

April 1, 2025

Glissonic - with Dániel Váczi

A continuous pitch, sliding, keyless, microtonal Saxophone

📍 Budapest, Hungary

Website: Glissonic

Thoughts and Reflections

As mentioned in the video, my relationship with the Glissotar began several months before meeting Dániel. I first discovered this fascinating instrument through online videos that had been circulating among music enthusiasts. Intrigued by its unique capabilities, I decided to purchase one, knowing it would take several months to arrive.
At that time, I hadn't yet conceived of "The Instrument Makers" series. By remarkable coincidence, right when I decided to launch the project, I firstly learned that Dániel was in Budapest, and that I would be traveling there for the following summer. I had hoped my Glissotar would arrive before my trip, but production timelines didn't align with my travel plans.

Dániel proved incredibly hospitable, personally collecting me from the city center to visit his workshop in the countryside. When we arrived, I discovered only one other instrument ready for playing—a cello (made by Zjombor). This was particularly fortunate as cello is among my stronger instruments, allowing us to enjoy an expressive and spontaneous jam session together.

It's evident that Dániel stands at the beginning of what promises to be a significant enterprise. He's not only expanding operations but also developing new instruments incorporating the same innovative technology. The Glissotar represents a truly collaborative achievement, and Dániel himself embodies kindness and innovation, with a compelling story that deserves to be shared.

I'm thoroughly enjoying my Glissotar now that it's finally arrived, and I'm eager to explore more performance opportunities with this remarkable instrument.