BBC HomeExplore the BBC


Accessibility help
Text only
BBC Homepage
BBC Music
Guide To The Orchestra

Radio 3

Classical Music

Guide to the Orchestra

Play!


BBC Performing Groups Singers National Orchestra of Wales Scottish Symphony Orchestra Philharmonic Concert Orchestra Symphony Orchestra
BBC Proms
Young Musician of the Year

Contact Us

Like this page?
Send it to a friend!

 
  
french horn title image

The french horn (or horn for short) consists of a very long brass tube, which curls round and round. Originally made from hollowed-out animals' horns, the horn was used for signalling. The player puts their hand in the bell end to change the sound of the instrument, and gets different notes by pressing down valves, which block off holes.
french horn
Listen to the french horn
listen tosolo
listen toHear it in action
 

  
  Jeremy Bushell  Meet the Orchestra!
Jeremy Bushell plays the french horn for the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra. Read about him below.
  
  
Jeremy Bushell, French Horn

How old were you when you first started playing?
I started playing the french horn when I was 14. Before that I played the E flat horn in a brass band.
Why did you choose this instrument?
Because I wanted to play in an orchestra the horn seemed the most logical instrument.
Do you play any other instruments?
The E flat horn.
What do you like most about playing in an orchestra?
I love the big, loud and exciting sounds the orchestra makes because it's easier to play loudly than quietly.
Do you play any other kind of music?
I occasionally perfom in small groups with other players from the orchestra.
What other music do you like?
I love Macy Gray - I've got all her albums. I also like jazz.
Do you have any other hobbies?
I play squash and love cooking - and eating it!
  
      
  
  
All pictures are copyrighted - picture credits
Woodwind   Brass  
 
 
Strings Percussion
 
 
Keyboards Conductor
LEARN AN INSTRUMENT
Which instrument, which age, finding teachers, buying guide and the perils of practice
 
 





About the BBC | Help | Terms of Use | Privacy & Cookies Policy