[Ex-demo] Yamaha YHR-314II French horn

Products marked as ‘ex-demo’ are offered at a reduced price as they have been used for inspection, demonstration, or marketing purposes by the manufacturer or seller. While they are not factory-sealed, they are sold ‘as new’ and come with a full mechanical warranty. In some cases, a limited cosmetic warranty may apply. Item-specific condition reports are available upon request.

• Bell and body material: yellow brass
• Finish: lacquer
• Bore: 0.472 in. (12 mm)
• Bell: fixed, medium
• Lever action: string

The single F horn has one set of tubing pitched in F, while the single B-flat horn has a shorter set of tubing pitched in B-flat. The double horn combines both systems in one instrument, the player switching between them with a thumb valve. Double horns are the standard choice for most advanced players because they offer greater versatility than either single horn.

Both can be good starter instruments. The choice depends upon the player’s age, experience and their teacher’s recommendation. The single F horn develops skills that transfer more naturally to a double horn. The single B-flat horn has a shorter air column which younger players may find lighter and easier to manage, particularly when playing in the upper register.

The double horn combines the tonal breadth of the F horn with the agility and security in the upper register of the B-flat horn. The player selects the ‘side’ of the horn that best suits the music being played, allowing them greater flexibility in meeting the demands of different styles of music.

A good-quality single horn provides a solid foundation and may be all a player requires during the first several years of study. Many players eventually move to a double horn as they progress to an advanced level and take on the challenges of more demanding repertoire.