The alphorn is one of those instruments, like the double-bell euphonium, that non-aficionados have trouble taking seriously. Yet the alphorn has been around for nearly 500 years: first as a means of communications in the high alps, and later as a musical instrument that has been featured in works by composers like Brahms and Leopold Mozart.
Christian Schneider, alphorn maker and Webmaster of The Alphorn in Switzerland (see below), reports that a music teacher named Herr Huber organized summer alphorn courses at the request of Bern's mayor as long ago as 1826--a step that guaranteed the alphorn's survival not only as an instrument, but also as a Swiss national symbol.
As the accompanying photo shows, the alphorn is a remarkably simply instrument. It consists of a long flaring spruce tube with a mouthpiece--and that's it. No valves, no keys, no holes, no spit valve. Yet its very simplicity (as well as its size) makes it a difficult instrument to play. Christian Schneider claims that "The apprenticeship for Alphornplayers runs to approximately two years. One should be able to concentrate oneself fully on that for this time."
Herr Schneider recommends that purchasers consider the standard Fis-Ges (F-sharp/G-flat) alphorn, measuring 3.40 meters (about 11 feet) long, over other models that range from 2.2m to 3.9m in length. This size has a "clear and resonant, but also typically soft" sound, and "in its three-part construction it matches well into a car's boot." He adds that the F-sharp alphorn is well-suited for playing with organs, brass bands, and orchestras.
If you aren't ready to invest in such a specialized instrument, or to attract the attention of local cows and neighbors with two years of intensive practice, it might be wiser to simply enjoy an alphorn concert during your trip to Switzerland. Check with local tourist offices for folklore shows, especially in German-speaking Switzerland, or visit the Restaurant Stadtkeller in Lucerne
Christian Schneider, alphorn maker and Webmaster of The Alphorn in Switzerland (see below), reports that a music teacher named Herr Huber organized summer alphorn courses at the request of Bern's mayor as long ago as 1826--a step that guaranteed the alphorn's survival not only as an instrument, but also as a Swiss national symbol.
As the accompanying photo shows, the alphorn is a remarkably simply instrument. It consists of a long flaring spruce tube with a mouthpiece--and that's it. No valves, no keys, no holes, no spit valve. Yet its very simplicity (as well as its size) makes it a difficult instrument to play. Christian Schneider claims that "The apprenticeship for Alphornplayers runs to approximately two years. One should be able to concentrate oneself fully on that for this time."
Herr Schneider recommends that purchasers consider the standard Fis-Ges (F-sharp/G-flat) alphorn, measuring 3.40 meters (about 11 feet) long, over other models that range from 2.2m to 3.9m in length. This size has a "clear and resonant, but also typically soft" sound, and "in its three-part construction it matches well into a car's boot." He adds that the F-sharp alphorn is well-suited for playing with organs, brass bands, and orchestras.
If you aren't ready to invest in such a specialized instrument, or to attract the attention of local cows and neighbors with two years of intensive practice, it might be wiser to simply enjoy an alphorn concert during your trip to Switzerland. Check with local tourist offices for folklore shows, especially in German-speaking Switzerland, or visit the Restaurant Stadtkeller in Lucerne
The Swiss Alphorn School has developed to satisfy an increasing demand, both in Switzerland and in foreign lands, for a place to study the Alphorn and to gain a deeper appreciation for the instrument. All of our teachers are professional music teachers who bring a lifetime of experience to the art of playing the Alphorn.
We offer a wide variety of courses for the Alphorn player, from a one-day experience to up to a week of intensive instruction. Players of all abilities are welcome; coursework will be designed to meet your specific needs. How to produce a beautiful sound will be a priority, as well as the proper technique in breathing and tasteful musicianship. Additional topics will be Alphorn music and tradition, music theory and the reduction of performance related stress. Our teachers will lead group rehearsals and performances, and will offer private lessons as well. Solo playing is voluntary. Students will experience performing in a concert setting and, of course, performing outdoors in the thrill of nature. Our goal is to offer to each student a unique and educational Alphorn experience.
Above all, I know that you will enjoy the spectacular beauty of Saanenland and the hospitality of the Swiss people.
We offer a wide variety of courses for the Alphorn player, from a one-day experience to up to a week of intensive instruction. Players of all abilities are welcome; coursework will be designed to meet your specific needs. How to produce a beautiful sound will be a priority, as well as the proper technique in breathing and tasteful musicianship. Additional topics will be Alphorn music and tradition, music theory and the reduction of performance related stress. Our teachers will lead group rehearsals and performances, and will offer private lessons as well. Solo playing is voluntary. Students will experience performing in a concert setting and, of course, performing outdoors in the thrill of nature. Our goal is to offer to each student a unique and educational Alphorn experience.
Above all, I know that you will enjoy the spectacular beauty of Saanenland and the hospitality of the Swiss people.
