French Horns

The French Horn is a member of the Brass family and consists mainly of about 12-13 feet of tubing coiled into a flared bell. The French Horn is based upon a piston-valve system and has an extensive range from a low C two octaves below middle C and extending right up to a C two octaves above middle C.

The most common type of single French Horn sounds in F, i.e. When you play a C, the pitch on the piano is an F below that. Double and compensating double horns can also play in Bb, which allows advancing players to more accurately pitch notes in higher registers. Compensating double horns are very popular as they have the flexibility of a full double, but are lighter and easier to play. Some French Horn music is written specifically for F/Bb Horns.

In classical music horns have long been associated with hunting, and the horn’s mellow, calming tone often evokes pastoral countryside. It is an instrument with a long classical history, stretching back to the Baroque era and Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto, right through to their powerful role in the massive romantic Symphony by Gustav Mahler. Horns also feature in brass quintets, brass bands, concert bands and military bands.

Gear4music stock an excellent range of French Horns, from junior 3/4 size and student models, to deluxe and professional horns.