----- Original Message ----- From: "Jeremy Hansen" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> Never, ever, ever buy single Bb horns for your students. If anyone says that > the difference in sound and technique doesn't make a difference, then they > are missing the point of the instrument. > > Jeremy Hansen I would have to disagree with you on this. If one uses a separate technique play Bb horn as opposed to F horn, then they are missing the point. Following this same thought process, is the Eb horn bad, too? Or is there a magical quality about Horn in F? I doubt that in the early days of natural horns, teachers would have insisted on beginners playing on the F crook only. Plus, you change the inherent pitch base of the horn every time you depress a valve... So should students play all notes open??? I can see that you might find the longer horn and closer partials as something a student should battle through, but I don't see what the big "Bb" deal is. Many times in a middle school situation, your horn players are trumpet converts and the key of the horn makes the transition easier. Obviously, an outstanding player should be transitioned to a double horn anyway, so you're going to have access to the Bb instrument regardless. You're taking a purist's view of the situation, and I can understand that, but good teaching will minimize any perceived downside to the Bb horn, IMHO. Dave Tuttle Principal Horn, Mojave Desert Hootenanny Ensemble & Modern Music Consort _______________________________________________ post: [EMAIL PROTECTED] set your options at http://music.memphis.edu/mailman/options/horn/archive%40jab.org
