Horn Teaching at the Paris Conservatoire, 1792 to 1903: The Transition from Natural Horn to Valved Horn

The transition from the valveless natural horn to the modern valved horn in 19th-century Paris was different from other countries due to strong support for the natural horn. This book explores the transition from 1792 to 1903, including horn teaching, initial reception, persistence, acceptance, use, controversies, and eventual adoption. It is useful for scholars, performers, and students interested in the horn, 19th-century brass instruments, teaching methods, and the intersection of technology and performing practice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The transition from the valveless natural horn to the modern valved horn in 19th-century Paris was a unique and complex process that differed significantly from similar transitions in other countries. While valve technology was enthusiastically embraced by players of other brass instruments, the natural horn, with its rich and diverse color palette and renowned virtuoso performance traditions, faced resistance in its adoption of the valve. This book, drawing upon a wealth of primary sources, including Conservatoire method books, accounts of performances, and technological advancements, delves into the story of this transition from 1792 to 1903. It provides a detailed examination of horn teaching before the arrival of valved brass in Paris, the initial reception and application of this technology to the horn, the persistence of the natural horn, and the gradual acceptance, use, controversies, and eventual adoption of the valved instrument within the Parisian community and at the Conservatoire.

Active scholars, performers, and students interested in the horn, 19th-century brass instruments, teaching methods associated with the Conservatoire, and the intersection of technology and performing practice will find this book invaluable. Its comprehensive details and insightful conclusions offer valuable perspectives on historically informed performance today.

Introduction:
The transition from the valveless natural horn to the modern valved horn in 19th-century Paris marked a significant milestone in the history of brass instruments. While valve technology had been introduced to other brass families with relative ease, the natural horn, with its unique characteristics and longstanding traditions, posed challenges to its integration with valves. This book aims to explore the complexities and nuances of this transition, examining the factors that influenced its progression and its impact on the development of horn playing in Paris.

Horn Teaching Before the Arrival of Valved Brass:
Prior to the arrival of valved brass in Paris, horn teaching at the Conservatoire was primarily focused on developing the natural horn's technical and musical skills. The Conservatoire method books, which were widely used during this period, emphasized the development of a strong embouchure, breath control, and intonation. The natural horn was considered a versatile instrument capable of producing a wide range of colors and expressiveness, and its virtuoso performance traditions were deeply ingrained in the Conservatoire's curriculum.

Initial Reception and Application of Valved Brass:
When valved brass instruments were introduced to the Conservatoire in the early 19th century, they were met with mixed reactions from horn players. While some players welcomed the new technology as a means to expand their technical capabilities and improve their sound, others were skeptical and resistant to the change. The valve technology was seen as a threat to the natural horn's unique qualities, such as its varied color palette and virtuoso performance traditions.

Persistence of the Natural Horn:
Despite the initial resistance, the natural horn continued to be taught and played at the Conservatoire for many years. Players who were deeply committed to the instrument and its traditions continued to advocate for its preservation. They argued that the natural horn had a distinct sound and expressive potential that was not fully realized by the valved instrument. They also pointed out that the valve technology was still relatively new and had not yet fully developed its potential.

Progression of Acceptance, Use, and Controversies:
Over time, the valved horn began to gain acceptance and use in Paris. Players who were open to exploring new possibilities with the instrument began to experiment with it and incorporate it into their performances. However, there were also controversies and debates surrounding the valved horn. Some players argued that the valve technology compromised the natural horn's expressiveness and tone quality, while others claimed that it offered new opportunities for technical development and musical expression.

Eventually, Adoption of the Valved Instrument:
Eventually, the valved horn became widely accepted and adopted in Paris and at the Conservatoire. This was largely due to the efforts of influential horn players and teachers who recognized the potential of the instrument and worked to promote its use. The valved horn was seen as a tool for expanding the technical and musical possibilities of horn playing, and it was incorporated into the Conservatoire's curriculum and repertoire.

Conclusion:
The transition from the valveless natural horn to the modern valved horn in 19th-century Paris was a complex and multifaceted process that involved a combination of technological advancements, musical traditions, and cultural factors. While the natural horn faced resistance in its adoption of the valve, it eventually became widely accepted and adopted due to the efforts of influential players and teachers. The valved horn has since played a significant role in the development of horn playing in Paris and beyond, and its impact on the history of brass instruments is undeniable.

Weight: 512g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367553821