Beginner Tips for the French Horn

The French horn is a very rewarding instrument, but it can be hard to find details about how to hold a French horn, where to place the mouthpiece on a French horn embouchure, or produce a sound without instruction from a teacher who is very familiar with the instrument. In this video, BoB hornist Margarite answers some frequently asked questions.

As a beginner French horn student, you might get conflicting advice about whether to play with the bell resting on or held up off your leg. It is fine to play whichever way is most comfortable for you! Whether you are playing on or off the leg, it is important to have an upright posture with a neutral spine so that you can breathe deeply and easily. 

Just like the other brass instruments, the best way to achieve a beautiful French horn sound is by playing with good air support and a singing quality. Tone quality (as well as note accuracy) will also be improved by spending practice time on mouthpiece buzzing. Try to produce a centered and focused buzz. It is also helpful to listen to recordings of a variety of professional horn players. You might find that certain players have sounds that you are drawn to. It is great to use them as inspiration for your own playing.