Main content
Sorry, this episode is not currently available

Proms Interval: The Horn

Tom considers the role of the French horn in classical music and in particular the distinctive qualities it brings to sound of the orchestra, with guest expert Anneke Scott.

Following tonight鈥檚 performance of the new Hans Abrahamsen Horn Concerto, Tom Service looks back on the role of the French horn in classical music.

The instrument has long held a special place in composers' affections and has played an important role in establishing a sound world for 19th century Romantic sensibilities. Just think of Schumann's supercharged Konzertstuck for four horns, or the central role the horn plays in Wagner's epic Ring - and in the orchestra of Brahms, Tchaikovsky, Strauss and Mahler.

Tom Service unwinds this 12-foot metal tube to learn more about its distinctive qualities with the help of natural horn virtuoso Anneke Scott.

Release date:

20 minutes

Why do we call it 'classical' music?

Tom Service poses a very simple question (with a not-so-simple answer).

Six of the world's most extreme voices

From babies to Mongolian throat singers: whose voice is the most extreme of all?

How did the number 12 revolutionise music?

How did the number 12 revolutionise music?

How Schoenberg opened a new cosmos for composers and listeners to explore.

Why are we all addicted to bass?

Why are we all addicted to bass?

Bass is everywhere, but why do we enjoy it? Join Tom Service on a journey of discovery.

Watch the animations

Join Tom Service on a musical journey through beginnings, repetition and bass lines.

When does noise become music?

We like to think we can separate 鈥渘oise鈥 from 鈥渕usic鈥, but is it that simple?

Podcast