Alto Saxophone to French Horn

Lauren82998

New member
Hello I'm an alto sax player and I've been playing for 5 years. I'm going to be starting to learn the French horn, and probably have private lessons as well. I was just wondering how hard this will be for me. I have taken a test run and have managed to make a sound out of it, thats a start When I start lessons and whatnot I am planning on practicing everyday, if anyone can give me tips that would be fantastic. Thank you
 

PaperTiger

New member
I hope that you don't put down the saxophone, but I really enjoyed playing the French Horn, the biggest challenge was lung capacity and now how to fill your lungs all the way between notes. As this is a late reply I'm sure you have had a little more experience and know what I'm talking about.

Fun fact; The first French Horns didn't have valves rather the had interchangeable crooks which moved the instruments range along the scale. So in order to change notes you had only your embouchure and diaphragm. And to help train these muscles and my skill I was instructed to attempt my scales with out using the keys, and only my muscles. I enjoyed that challenge. I bet you might be able to do the same with the Saxophone, but I would imagine that it isn't as necessary. Though I have yet to learn to play the Sax. But the French Horn there are a few note changes like C to D played on a F Horn was mostly a embouchure adjustment. Also if you aren't aware there are difference size mouth pieces and different companies feel different, so if you can try out a few different ones that might help you out.

Have Fun I hope to hear about your experience, and I am also curious about why you switched or choose to add the French Horn to your repertoire.
 
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