French Horn

The French horn is the also a member of the brass family. Its sound is produced by the player vibrating their lips into a small mouthpiece similar to a trumpet, but the way that it is shaped causes it to have a much different sound.  Students with good musical ears should consider French Horn.

Physical Characteristics

A slight overbite is okay, but an underbite can severely hinder progress on French Horn. Because the bell of the French horn rests on the knee of the player while playing at the beginning of the year, it is imperative that a student’s upper torso be long enough to accommodate the size of the French horn to make good sounds and that players be able to demonstrate sitting straight up when asked to do so. The French horn’s valves are moved with the left hand.

Other Considerations

Because of the difficult nature of French horn notes (mentioned above), students should exhibit great ability to match sung or played pitches by humming or singing. Perhaps this is a good instrument choice for students who have participated in piano lessons or church choir groups. Students with a history of academic or behavioral problems will NOT be selected for French horn. SFMS provides French horns for students during the school year and students will just need to get their own mouthpiece.