Horn
The French horn is a brass instrument known for its rich, warm sound and unique circular shape. It has a long, coiled tube with a large bell at the end and is played by buzzing the lips into a small mouthpiece.
Players use their left hand to press valves and their right hand inside the bell to help control the sound. The French horn is used in orchestras, bands, and movie soundtracks, creating both powerful and soft, mellow tones. It’s one of the most challenging brass instruments to play but also one of the most beautiful!
Jurassic Park
Disney Medley
Beauty and the Beast
Ten Fantastic French Horn Facts
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It's Not Really French!
Even though it's called the French horn, it actually comes from Germany! Most musicians just call it the horn today.
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It’s Super Long!
If you uncoiled a French horn, it would be about 12 to 17 feet (4-5 meters) long! That’s as long as a small bus!
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You Use Your Hand to Play!
Horn players put their right hand inside the bell to help control the sound and pitch—no other brass instrument does this!
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It Has a Beautiful, Warm Sound!
The French horn can sound soft and smooth or bold and powerful, making it perfect for movie music, classical music, and even video game soundtracks!
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It’s One of the Hardest Brass Instruments to Play!
Since the French horn plays lots of different notes with very small lip movements, it takes great skill and practice to play correctly!
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It’s Used in Movie Soundtracks!
The French horn is a favorite in movie music, especially in adventure and fantasy films like Star Wars, Harry Potter, and The Lion King!
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It Can Sound Like an Elephant!
If you blow into a French horn without pressing the valves, it can sound just like an elephant’s trumpet! Try it and see!
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It Was Once Used for Hunting!
Early horns were used for hunting signals in forests. Their loud, echoing sound helped hunters communicate over long distances!
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There Are Two Main Types!
There are single horns (lighter and easier for beginners) and double horns (which have extra tubing for more notes).
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The Bell Points Backward!
Unlike most brass instruments, the French horn’s bell faces backward! This helps soften the sound and gives it its beautiful, smooth tone.