Matt and I take a look at the Alto Horn, A.K.A the Tenor Horn (or Peck Horn, or Blatweasel) and why it’s not used anymore in American bands.
From Bandestration
Tag: tenor horn
E-flat Alto Horn (Tenor Horn)
Alto Horn
This instrument is a taxonomic conundrum. It is shaped like the tubas, and has some of the characteristics of that family, but due to its narrower bore structure, I place it here with the cornets. If we look at the British brass bands, we will see that this is how they are grouped (as the middle voices in a cornet choir). Early in the history of American bands, the Alto Horn, then known as the E-flat Horn, was seen in nearly all groups as a substitute for the Horn. However, the Alto Horn is not a substitute for the noble Horn at all, and should never be treated as such. Continue reading “E-flat Alto Horn (Tenor Horn)”
Cornets – Introduction
Sadly, the cornets are a sound that we have almost entirely lost from the band. At one time, the Cornet was the most important brass instrument in the band. Today, the trumpet has completely taken over this role. Most people nowadays see no difference between the two instruments. I see a huge difference.
