The transition from the valveless natural horn to the modern valved horn
in 19th-century Paris was different from similar transitions
in other countries. While valve technology was received happily by
players of other members of the brass family, strong support for the
natural horn, with its varied color palette and virtuoso performance
traditions, slowed the reception and application of the valve to the
horn.
Using primary sources including Conservatoire method books, accounts of
performances and technological advances, and other evidence, this book
tells the story of the transition from natural horn to valved horn at
the Conservatoire, from 1792 to 1903, including close examination of
horn teaching before the arrival of valved brass in Paris, the initial
reception and application of this technology to the horn, the
persistence of the natural horn, and the progression of acceptance, use,
controversies, and eventual adoption of the valved instrument in the
Parisian community and at the Conservatoire.
Active scholars, performers, and students interested in the horn,
19th-century brass instruments, teaching methods associated
with the Conservatoire, and the intersection of technology and
performing practice will find this book useful in its details and
conclusions, including ramifications on historically-informed
performance today.