Excerpt introductions : introducing the major works of the French horn audition repertory

Abstract

This project contains a series of videos that introduces three excerpts from the French horn repertory. Each excerpt is introduced in general terms in a creative manner meant to inform viewers of important aspects of the work, be it historical, allegorical, or musical. The second part focuses on particular aspects of the excerpts themselves, to explain the various intricacies that students should know about the work. Strauss’s Till Eulenspiegel is primarily concerned with storytelling, and the first video The Story of Till Eulenspiegel illustrates the story that might be present, along with introducing the main themes found in the work. The follow up video, Excerpt Introductions: Strauss Till Eulenspiegel focuses on the opening horn excerpt and guides players in how to approach the excerpt for an audition. Excerpt Introductions: Brahms Symphony No. 3 – Allegretto introduces the excerpt and in an interview with Eric Kim, Brahms Symphony No. 3 Interview with Eric Kim explores what a horn player might learn from a cellist performing the same music material earlier in the movement. Exploring Shostakovich Symphony No. 5 delves into the politics of music in the time of Stalinist Russia, followed by an exploration of the numerous excerpts contained within the work. The written component discusses the creation and purpose for these videos.