The 18 best french horn brands
Holton, Yamaha and Jupiter lead our ranking of 18 french horn brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
French Horn brands, ranked
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1
Holton
Holton makes student and professional French horns, including the Farkas-style models long used in school bands and orchestras.
Website: holtonloyalist.com |Brands like Holton
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Yamaha
Yamaha makes student and professional French horns, including double horns sold in its band and orchestral lines.
Website: usa.yamaha.com |Brands like Yamaha
Popularity 9.1/10
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3
Jupiter
Jupiter makes student and intermediate French horns, mainly single and double models sold for school band players.
Website: my-jupiter.de |Brands like Jupiter
Popularity 6.4/10
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4
Getzen
Getzen is a musical instruments manufacturing company that offers a range of products, including items like Trumpets and Cornetts. They have over eight decades of experience and knowledge in making and selling musical instruments and accessories to professional musicians. The company carries years of American tradition and modern designs, which shows in their products. Their brass instruments and custom line of Edward Trumpets and Trombones are well recognized worldwide.
Website: getzen.com |Brands like Getzen
Popularity 5.1/10
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5
Olds
Olds made French horns in its historic line, though the brand is now best known for trumpets and cornets.
Website: feolds.com |Brands like Olds
Popularity 5.1/10
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6
Marcinkiewicz
Marcinkiewicz makes handmade and production French horns, with a reputation among Polish and European brass makers.
Website: marcinkiewicz.com |Brands like Marcinkiewicz
Popularity 4.8/10
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7
Schiller
Rooted as a manufacturer of outstanding pianos, Schiller now deals with metal-made wind instruments that include a wide range of products varying in quality and nature of the sound produced. Products include everything right from slim flutes to giant tubas with at least a dozen options in each category. The materials vary from copper, brass, steel, and also silver plating of them. Apart from instruments, spare parts like mouthpieces, Bells and enthrall cases complete the list.
Website: schillerinstruments.com |Brands like Schiller
Popularity 4.8/10
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8
Kanstul
Kanstul musical instruments manufacture a broad line of brass instruments, mouthpieces, and other accessories. Each and every instrument is designed with a customer-centric approach by implementing the science of tapered tubes and their applications with an unrelenting focus on sound quality. Over the years, top artist and professional has chosen it. With over 67 years of expertise in brass making, Kanstul has now ended the journey of manufacturing and selling its products everywhere.
Website: kanstul.com |Brands like Kanstul
Popularity 4.6/10
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9
Alexander
Alexander Brass makes German-style double French horns, widely used by professional and advanced players.
Website: peteralexander.com.au |Brands like Alexander
Popularity 4.1/10
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10
Stagg
Music is life itself. Stagg makes it more beautiful by manufacturing musical instruments for all the musicians. Its mission is to offer superior instruments, audio and lighting, and accessories at an affordable cost. They have guitars, cymbals and percussion, band,...
Website: staggmusic.com |Brands like Stagg
Popularity 3.9/10
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11
Besson
Your commitment and Besson’s instrument together would create the most harmonious melody. Besson makes the most advanced, tried and tested brass instruments so that you can have your best performances. Besson has a wide range of instruments, spare parts, and...
Website: besson.com |Brands like Besson
Popularity 3.6/10
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12
Amati
Amati makes Czech-built French horns, including student and intermediate double horns.
Website: amati.cz |Brands like Amati
Popularity 3.4/10
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13
Bundy
Conn-Selmer dedicates itself to the world of music by providing fabulous musical instruments. Their education wing aims to provide music education to children all across the world through their exemplary programs. Their hand-crafted instruments are perfect for both students and...
Website: bundymusic.com |Brands like Bundy
Popularity 1.9/10
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14
Miraphone
Miraphone makes German professional double French horns, known for its handcrafted orchestral instruments.
Website: miraphone.de |Brands like Miraphone
Popularity 1.9/10
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15
Paxman
Paxman makes handmade professional French horns in the United Kingdom, known for custom orchestral instruments.
Website: paxman.org.uk |Brands like Paxman
Popularity 1.9/10
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16
Bach
Bach makes French horns, including professional double models in its Stradivarius range.
Website: bach-cantatas.com |Brands like Bach
Popularity 1.4/10
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17
Denis Wick
Denis Wick makes mouthpieces and mutes for French horn players, not the horns themselves.
Website: deniswick.com |Brands like Denis Wick
Popularity 1.4/10
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18
Schilke
Schilke makes professional French horns, including double models, alongside its trumpets and trombones.
Website: schilkemusic.com |Brands like Schilke
Popularity 1.4/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holton | holtonloyalist.com | /holtonloyalist | – | – | – |
| Yamaha | usa.yamaha.com | /YamahaMusicUSA | yamahamusicusa | @yamahamusicusa | – |
| Jupiter | my-jupiter.de | /Jupiter-K%C3%BCchenmaschinen-1283694515692 | myjupiter.de/ | – | – |
| Getzen | getzen.com | /getzencompany | – | @GetzenCompany | Getzen Co. |
| Olds | feolds.com | – | – | – | – |
| Marcinkiewicz | marcinkiewicz.com | /Marcinkiewicz-Company | – | – | – |
| Schiller | schillerinstruments.com | – | – | – | – |
| Kanstul | kanstul.com | /kanstulfactory | – | – | KanstulMusic |
| Alexander | peteralexander.com.au | /peteralexander | peteralexanderofficial | – | – |
| Stagg | staggmusic.com | /staggmusic | staggmusic | – | – |
French Horn Buying Guide
If you are just starting to play the French horn or looking to upgrade an existing instrument, there are a few key factors to consider before making your purchase. In this guide, we will discuss the different types of French horns, materials, brands, and important features to look for.
Types of French Horns
There are three main types of French horns: single, double, and triple. The type you choose will depend on your playing style and skill level.
Single Horns
Single horns are typically the best option for beginners. They have one set of tubing and are easier to play than double or triple horns. These horns are great for practicing and learning the basics of the instrument. They are also the most affordable option for those on a budget.
Double Horns
Double horns have two sets of tubing, which allows the player to switch between two different keys. They offer a wider range and a richer sound compared to single horns. Double horns are ideal for intermediate to advanced players who require increased versatility and flexibility.
Triple Horns
Triple horns have three sets of tubing and offer the widest range of the three types of French horns. This type of horn requires great skill and is typically reserved for professional players who need to perform complex pieces.
Materials
The material your French horn is made from can also have an impact on its quality and sound.
Brass
Most French horns are made of brass, which is a common material used in many instruments. Brass horns offer a bright, powerful sound but can be heavier than other materials.
Nickel Silver
A nickel silver French horn has a lighter weight and produces a darker, more mellow sound than brass. This type of horn is often preferred by jazz musicians.
Gold Brass
Gold brass is a higher quality material compared to regular brass. French horns made from gold brass produce a warmer, richer sound and are often used by professional musicians.
Brands
When it comes to brand selection, there are many options available. Some of the most reputable brands include:
- Yamaha
- Conn
- Holton
- Bach
- King
- Getzen
These brands are known for their high-quality horns that produce exceptional sound.
Features to Consider
When purchasing a French horn, there are several features to consider:
Bell Size
The size of the bell can significantly impact the sound of the horn. A larger bell produces a fuller, more powerful sound compared to a smaller bell size.
Bore Size
The bore size, or the diameter of the tubing, can affect the ease of playing and the overall sound quality. A larger bore size produces a richer, more expressive tone, but can be more challenging to play for beginners.
Valves
The valve system is a crucial component of the French horn. There are two types of valve systems: rotor valves and piston valves.
Rotor valves are more common in double and triple horns, and they offer smoother transitions between notes. Piston valves are typically used in single horns and provide a more focused sound.
Level of Skill
Consider your level of skill when purchasing a French horn. Beginners should opt for a single horn with a smaller bore size, while intermediate and advanced players may want to consider a double or triple horn for increased versatility.
Price
French horns are available at various price points. While it may be tempting to opt for a cheaper option, keep in mind that higher-priced horns typically have better quality materials and features that will impact your sound and playing ability.
Tips for Testing Horns
Before making a final purchase, it's essential to test out a few different options. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Play a standard repertoire: Play a piece of music you know well to compare the sound quality.
- Listen from different angles: Listen to the sound of the horn from various angles to determine its overall sound quality.
- Check for leaks: Ensure that there are no leaks in the horn by playing all notes with different valve combinations.
- Try different mouthpieces: Different mouthpieces can impact the sound and playability of the horn.
- Weight and balance: Consider the weight and balance of the horn to ensure it's comfortable to hold while playing.
Conclusion
When purchasing a French horn, it's important to consider the type, materials, brands, and features to ensure you're getting the best instrument to suit your needs. Take time to test out several horns before making a final purchase to find the one that produces the sound and tone you desire.
