by Dr. Paul Austin

 

---

 

The horn is perhaps one of the most fascinating musical instruments. With its rough- and-tumble beginnings as an outdoor signaling device played by hunters or war mongers, today it enjoys its role as the heroic soul of the orchestra in concert halls played by professionally-trained musicians.

Currently horn students can get a boost in their training by gaining some knowledge about the natural horn. Perhaps this information can unlock a few mysteries about the valve horn, as well as give the satisfaction and peace of mind in leaving no stone unturned in their musical education.

By Cathy Lemmon

---

One of the frequently arising questions, especially for younger players, is, accompanying the horn, what the best tools and other items to have on hand and readily available are. It can take years of experience to boil down what these would be. Playing recently in a pit orchestra for a musical, I started looking through the pocket on the side of my gig bag for spare batteries for my stand light. I couldn't see them straightaway, so I started unloading what was in there. The more I pulled out, the more I wondered if someone had managed to put an "Undetectable Extension Charm" on this pocket. I hadn't realized I had collected that many "things". But, you know what? These were all items I've needed at one point or another. So, looking at these, I thought, why not put together an "essentials" list—a kind of hornist's "emergency kit"? This would be something that would present at least a useful starting point to helping a hornist be ready and prepared for situations that, as a musician, will invariably happen. These "situations" can be as simple as having a sticky slide or valve during rehearsal or as drastic as having a valve string break in the middle of a concert. To have on hand what is needed when it is needed will save you a lot of trouble and headache.

by Dr. Nicholas Kenney

---

Many students have come to lessons unprepared in the past. I have, you probably have, and your friends probably have too. Here are three steps you can take to make sure you are as prepared as you can be for your regularly scheduled lesson. These three steps are catered towards preparing you both for immediate success – having successful, meaningful weekly lessons – and for success as you aspire to be the best hornist you can be.

by Kyle Hayes

---

YouPlay! is a new book for students by the Finnish quartet, The Golden Horns. They offer a fun approach to learning various aspects of horn playing using 16 pieces for one to four horns. The book also includes a CD to play along with- definitely a lot more fun that Kopprasch.

by Steven Cohen

---

Playing in the pit orchestra for a show is an amazing experience and a lot fun, but if you are playing one for the first time, you probably have some questions. Here are some basics and tips that will hopefully answer some of those questions.