by Inman Hebert
As students of the horn, we will inevitably acquire musical role models. But how can we move beyond viewing successful horn players as unapproachable icons and learn to translate their experiences into unlocking our potential? We ought to examine the performances, skills, and traits of role models and apply these to our own musical development.
Listening to the recordings of great horn players connects us to sound models. For example, generations of horn players have attempted to emulate the sound of Dennis Brain on his recordings of the Mozart horn concerti. While very few living horn players knew him personally, his legacy continues through those recordings, influencing our ideas about the proper sound and style with which to perform Mozart. Other great players have made recordings which are easily accessible on YouTube or Spotify, and we have only to explore to discover the spectrum of interpretations that exists.
For artists who can be considered sound models, listen to their recordings, then consider the nuances in their phrase structures and emulate the subtleties. Additionally, research their published pedagogical materials. Many players have written articles or books outlining their philosophies on aspects of horn playing. Consider exactly what in their playing you admire, and incorporate their ideas as part of your quest for improvement. From those who have not written about sound concepts, many have been interviewed and so have recorded thoughts. (The IHS YouTube channel and website are repositories of many of these.) With proper research, we can learn a great deal from horn players with whom we have never had the privilege of interacting.
Our definition of musical models, however, should not be limited to elite performing artists of the horn. We should not neglect the lessons other instrumentalists and vocalists have to offer. From studying the breath support of singers, to how blowing relates to bowing, to the phrasing of concert pianists, other musicians’ ideas can powerfully inform our horn playing.
Teachers serve as role models but also mentor and guide us through challenges to help us accomplish our goals. They already know our weaknesses as players, so we should never allow pride to prevent us from asking questions. As students, we must keep an open mind and listen to the diagnoses and solutions they offer and follow through with persistence to solidify improvement.
We interact with horn players in school and at symposiums, workshops, concerts, and music festivals. Taking the time to learn from role models in the horn community may shift our ideas. With curiosity, we will become more observant, ask more questions, and open ourselves to new possibilities.
