Best French Horns in the Market for Students
So you think you can play the French horn? Well, you must know that it may seem easier than it really is, but not impossible!
French horns were in fact made for hunting, but somebody decided to add valves to the original rounded tube, creating this way an orchestral instrument. Some horns have three valves, as in the case of single ones, while others my have four, as it happens with double horns. This is something very important to take into account when acquiring a French horn: single horns, usually in the key of F, will be easier to begin with; double ones will allow you to switch between the keys of Bb and F, and they require a more advanced knowledge.
In our list we have selected the best options for students, specially beginners but also intermediate players. So, whether you are looking for a single or a double horn, here you will find some interesting options at the best price possible.
Yamaha YHR-314II Student French Horn
Yamaha has designed this French horn specially for students, aiming to provide a comfortable playing and a smoother airflow for a perfect response.
The YHR-314II is a very lightweight French horn in the key of F, with nickel silver slides that will endure corrosion much better than other brass horns. The 32C4 mouthpipe is made of gold brass, with a taper designed to achieve a perfect intonation. Its valves are also tapered, offering a longer life and a rich tone.
- String lever action for a smoother action
- Features a clear epoxy gold lacquer finish
- Includes Yamaha’s limited 5-year warranty
Eastar EFH-380 Single French Horn
Eastar is a well-known brand among music students, specially when it comes to brass instruments. The EFH-380 is a single French horn that includes a whole kit with all accessories needed for a perfect maintenance and storage.
The patent-designed valves are rotary, designed to avoid stucking: you just need to keep them oiled, specially for the first time of use. That it why this French horn includes its own valve oil, so you can start by applying it and play immediately.
- Features nickel silver inner and outer slides
- With Eastar’s patent-designed 3 rotary and tapered valves
- Includes white gloves, cornet mouthpiece, oil, cleaning kit, 3-in-1 tuner and hard case
Ammoon Gold Lacquer French Horn
Ammoon has produced this surprisingly good French horn at a very affordable price, ideal for those beginners who still do not want to invest a lot of money on a more professional horn.
With a gold lacquered finish, this gorgeous instrument has a brass body with a cupronickel tuning slide, leadpipe and mouthpiece. Being a single horn, instead of a double one, it will also feel very lightweight and easier to play.
- In the key of B/Bb Flat
- 3 solid rotary valves
- Includes a cupronickel mouthpiece, gloves, a cleaning cloth, and a quality hardshell case.
Stagg WS – HR245 F-3
Stagg is a company that started around the 1970’s in Japan, producing guitars. Years later they expanded and started creating other musical instruments and accessories. Among them, brass instruments such as French horns.
The HR245 is a decent-priced horn made of brass with a clear lacquered finish, strong enough for beginners and made to last long. It comes with its own case to carry this beautiful horn anywhere.
- Single horn with 3 rotary valves
- Whole body made of durable brass
- Includes an ABS case for storage
Mendini MFH-20 Brass French Horn
Mendini is another one of the most popular brands among music students and their parents, as they produce quality musical instruments at the best price possible. Plus, they include all accessories needed in the package, so these newbies will not only have everything they need to start practising, but also to keep their instrument in perfect conditions for a long time.
The bell and body of the MFH-20 French horn are made of brass, with 3 mechanical valves that produce a nice sound with a strong projection. The shiny yellow-lacquered finish will give the final touch to this decent-priced French horn that sounds great and looks amazing.
- In the key of F
- With a silver plated mouthpiece, a hard case, gloves and a digital tuner/metronome
- Includes 1-year warranty against any manufacturer’s defect
Moz Monel Rotors 4 Keys French Horn
We have a double French horn now for those intermediate and more advanced players.
With a well-balanced design and an awesome gold-lacquered finish, Moz has created this horn that produces a rich tone, thanks to its smooth valves with fast rotary response.
It comes with a wide mouthpiece and a compact ABS case for storage.
- Double horn in the keys of Bb/F
- Features 4 smooth rotors and mechanical valves
- Includes a resistant but lightweight hard ABS case and a mouthpiece
Palatino WI-824-FH
Palatino is a US company that produces string and wind instruments, and among their brass collection, they have created this beautiful French horn.
With 3 rotary valves, this single horn is a really nice choice for beginners and intermediate players. Palatino always consider affordability on their instruments without sacrificing quality, and that is why they have designed this lightweight but resistant instrument, made of European bell brass and has a gorgeous lacquer finish. It is also provided with a mouthpiece and a beautiful case to keep it always in perfect conditions.
- Single horn with 3 rotary valves
- Made from European bell brass
- Includes deluxe case and mouthpiece
Holton H378 Intermediate French Horn
Another double horn option, this time by Holton, for those more intermediate students (or beginners who are really sure they will move fast).
The H378 is a horn made of yellow brass on bell and branches, with nickel silver slide tubes. With its 4 valves and tapered rotors, this horn will produce a nice sound with clear projection. The clear lacquer finish will give the final quality touch.
- Double horn in the key of Bb/F
- Made of hand-hammered yellow brass
- Includes a hard case and mouthpiece
