American Horn Quartet Interview

An inside look into a successful rarity in the chamber music world. Established in 1982 by four replanted Americans who perform and teach in Europe, the American Horn Quartet (AHQ) is probably the most well-known horn quartet in the business. One of their members includes Kerry Turner, whose original compositions are an absolute joy to [...]



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Parody: Vader at the Philharmonic

Bruce Hembd, 05/21/2009

A look behind-the-scenes * In this video the Star Wars character Darth Vader takes on the role of orchestra conductor. But instead of a baton the big baddie uses a light saber to lead the ensemble in — what else? — the “Empire” theme from Star Wars. Thankfully, the stage manager gave the musicians plenty [...]

Thinking About Fingerings

John Ericson, 05/20/2009

Frequent site visitors know that this past year I have had a project to improve my B-flat horn fingerings. It really has been a challenge; I was not taught to use B-flat horn fingerings in the lower range. They are getting better but I do feel like the proverbial old dog learning a new trick. [...]

What a Mess in Arizona

Bruce Hembd, 05/20/2009

Octave Jumps for Fun and Profit

John Ericson, 05/19/2009

Up for a practice challenge? Try playing a bunch of tongued octave jumps in a row. How soon till you miss? In my practice this last week I have been focusing on tongued octaves. I find that it helps to play special attention to exactly how you tongue each note. I am not going to [...]

Humor: Looks Like…

Bruce Hembd, 05/19/2009

Random acts of humor. Horn virtuoso and conductor Anthony Halstead** and character actor Donald Pleasence* – separated at birth? Long-lost brothers? *best known as the quintessentially evil Dr. Blofeld (famously parodied as Dr. Evil) and as Dr. Loomis in 5 Halloween movies. **best known as one of the finest natural horn players on the planet.

Random Monday

Bruce Hembd, 05/18/2009

Reflections and navel-gazing. The responses to “Copy, Paste and Steal” have been very helpful. A big thanks to those that took the time to comment and test things out. Announcements on both the Jupiter web site and on the Boston Brass’ (very purple) web site confirm that after 15 years, hornist J.D. Shaw is retiring [...]


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John Ericson & Bruce Hembd
on the French horn, brass related topics, and the field of classical music.