Basic Horn Courses

In the horn course for children and adolescents, early learning is facilitated by a playful and innovative teaching approach that introduces fundamental elements step by step.

Horn lessons start by presenting the horn’s structure, parts, and sound production, gradually building familiarity with the use of the mouthpiece and introducing breathing techniques, sound quality (starting with intonation and moving towards flexibility and dynamics), posture, and other essential instrumental techniques.

The horn lessons at the Scuola di Musica di Fiesole welcome children and adolescents with no prior musical background, offering two options: a two-year shared horn class (in small groups) through the Suoninsieme program, or an individual horn course.

Regardless of the path chosen, students also attend the introductory theory class Cantare il solfeggio, where they learn the basics of sound both in theory (silence, duration, and pitch) and in practice, by practicing sound emission while developing motor coordination.

A key part of all paths is interaction with peers, which is also fostered through early ensemble experiences with the S-bandiamo! brass and percussion group, where young horn players learn to play alongside others.

As students advance in their horn studies, they tackle pieces suited to their level, gradually improving their breath control, sound production, posture, and overall ease.

The horn course teachers provide ongoing support, including advice on managing emotions and encourage both individual and group effort.

These advancements prepare students to participate in Fiesole Harmonie, chamber groups, and the Youth Orchestra.

The pre-academic horn course is divided into three levels (basic, intermediate, and advanced), each concluding with a certification exam.

Each level includes complementary courses, covering chamber music and collective classes on writing and music theory.

Upon completing this path, horn students will have the necessary foundation to explore increasingly complex and engaging repertoires, with the potential to transition into an academic horn program.

In addition to the pre-academic course, the Scuola di Musica di Fiesole also offers a non-curricular horn course (minimum age 11), which does not require exams but meets the school’s educational standards.

Public performance is an essential part of every musician’s growth, and for children and adolescents it offers valuable formative experiences. For this reason, the Scuola di Musica di Fiesole organizes performance events (recitals, concerts, etc.) for its students from the start of instrumental courses, allowing them to perform individually, in small ensembles, and with orchestras.

Before starting the horn course for children, the Scuola di Musica di Fiesole recommends two preparatory paths, depending on age, to ease their transition to the instrument:

For very young children, there is the Musicami program for ages 0-6 (based on E. Gordon’s Music Learning Theory), while children aged 3-9 can participate in rhythmic-choral activities.