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One who plays the French horn (or another horn) is referred to as a hornist or simply a horn player.
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The musicians hand position affects note pitch and this means the musician must be aware of more than lip tension and breathing techniques to play properly.
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The double horn is the most popular French horn used in bands and orchestras today.
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The French horn is the brass instrument with the widest note range today because of its fourth valve possibility. Prior to the use of valves the musician would have to cover the bell (or part of it) to create changes in notes.
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Many consider the French horn to be the most difficult instrument to actually play and those who do must master it to be considered good.
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A French horn would be as long as 13 feet if it were to be uncoiled.
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The parts of the French horn include the mouthpiece, main tube, valve lever, finger rest, valve, valve tube, and the bell (which is flared).
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The mouthpiece of the French horn is shaped like a funnel.
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The horn was actually invented in Germany but most refer to the horn as a French horn. It is correct to refer to the horn as simply a 'horn'. It is so commonly recognized as a French horn that may continue to call it by this name.
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Despite being made of brass the French horn does not play in a brass band. They are members of the woodwind family.
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There are a total of eight valve combinations on a French horn. Most musicians only ever use seven however.
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The French horn is played left-handed, although it is possible to have custom work done to alter it for right-handed playing.
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The bell of the French horn is often removable to make it easier to transport from one place to another.
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Some of the most famous French horn players include Dennis Brain, Phillip Farkas, Dale Clevenger, and Barry Tuckwell. These players either came from musical families or began playing in their youth. Because it is such a difficult instrument to master the early start and family history came in handy.
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The French horn is commonly played in concert bands, orchestras, chamber music, military, and occasionally in jazz music.
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Famous people known to play the horn include Jon Stewart, John Entwistle (The Who), and Ewan McGregor.
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