French Horn Players...if money was no object, what kind of horn would you own?

Question

What is the best Brand? What brand do symphony musicians play? I need feedback from regular people before I enter the music store with the silver tongued, slicky boy, salesman who could sale sand to an Arab....All I know is that it needs to be in the key of F and a double horn, other than that I'm clueless about french horns.

Here's the deal. I'm the executor of a deceased old woman's estate. In her will she requested that $10,000 be spent on 4 horns to be donated to the local High school. She played and taught private lessons for years. She was very upset over the last several years that there have been no french horn players in the band, (because of their cost). She would have donated the money to the school directly but was afraid the money would be spent on something trival like band uniform...(her words.). I can spend up to $2500 per horn. Like I said, I'm clueless, I just thought maybe someone intelligent could offer some help on top brands...I did talk to the band director briefly and was only given the basic requirements as stated above. The school has no idea (per the womans request) that they will be receiving these. I'm supposed to present them to the school at the Christmas concert...

Answer 1

Yamaha makes, in my opinion, the best French Horn, followed closely by...what's that name? Belton, I believe. I played French Horn from 6th grade until I graduated, among other musical instruments, and if I had one, I'd play it now. I love the French Horn.

Answer 2

Well i i were u I'd look at whats available online. If i were u I'd try to find some
Geyer style horns. The kids at the school will be very thankfully if they are good enough to appreciate them. Just dont buy anothing from jupiter. Look on the international horn society's site for some horns. If u go geyer like i said. A couple yamaha 567s if bought used would serve those kids well.

Answer 3

What a wonderful situation to be in! (the donation, not the loss of the supporter, of course)

For a decent high school player and a very good one alike - I would recommend either a Conn 8D or a Holton 179. Both are very controllable by a student and are pretty much standard for horn players. Both can be within your price range if you make sure to check your reliable online sources (music123.com, WWBW.com, etc.) and I'm sure someone will give you a deal if you're buying four!!

If you're really interested, there is a wealth of information at www.hornplayer.net as well.

Answer 4

French Horns are extremely expensive. Do you even know how to play one??? The cost tends to make them one of the last instruments chosen for serious play.

My son plays the French Horn--but this is his first year as he spent 4 years on the violin. My best suggestion to you would be check with a local band teacher at a high school or middle school. They would be able to tell you what you need to know

Answer 5

I love the bright shiny ones.