Facts About the French Horn
A French Horn, also called an F-Horn or just Horn, is a brass instrument played in orchestras, bands, and ensembles. Typical French Horns are in the key of F or B-flat, and its music is written in the key of F, or occasionally, E-flat.
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History
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The modern French Horn is derived from the French hunting horn of the 1650s. Early horns did not have the valves and changeable tubing of modern French Horns, but were just one continuous tube with a bell at the end. All pitches were created by the embouchure, which is the lip shape and movement of facial muscles.
Common Types
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The most common types of French Horn are the single horn, which is generally used by beginners, and the double horn. The single horn is usually in the key of F, and is lighter and simpler to learn. The double horn is actually two horns combined--the single F horn plus additional tubing and a fourth valve to create a B-flat horn. The B-flat portion of the horn has a better, brighter tone for the high notes.
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Related Horns
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Related horns you might see include the marching horn, pitched in B-flat, and the mellophone, pitched in F. These two horns are similar in shape to an oversized trumpet and are played by French Horn players in marching bands and drum corps.
Pieces
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Famous works for French Horns include Mozart's Horn Concerto No. 2 and Beethoven's Horn Sonata, Op. 17.
Care
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A French Horn is simple to care for, but there are a few important steps. Oil the valves every other day with oil made for this purpose. Clean the mouthpiece once a week with a mouthpiece brush and warm water. Wipe fingerprints off the finish with a soft cloth.
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