Horn

Modern horn

The modern horn with its soft tones is represented by as many as four instruments in many modern symphony orchestras. It is a development of the hunting horn introduced as an orchestral instrument at the beginning of the 18th century.

Soul of the orchestra

Barry Tuckwell tells the story of the taming of the horn from a loud, rough signalling instrument to one that is mellow and emotive - described by Schumann as the soul of the orchestra. The history of the horn we know today is closely related to technical developments both in playing and in writing, and with a wealth of musical examples Barry Tuckwell tells us of these changes and the people who made them.

Difficult instrument

Barry Tuckwell then deals with the difficulties of building and maintaining this difficult instrument, providing invaluable: insights into the practicalities of the craft.
Useful advice is given by Tuckwell on all aspects of learning, practising and playing for the beginner, amateur and teacher.