French Horn Buyers Guide
from the MMF! Music Library

The French Horn comes in two versions: single and double. Beginning students find the single horn easier to start on, and typically play it for several of years before switching to a double horn.

The Single Horn
Single horns are made in the key of "F" or "Bb." Most student single horns are in the key of 'F." The single horn has three rotary valves (the lever thingies) that are used to change notes.

The Double Horn
The double horn gets its name because it has two sets of tubing. The player uses the "Bb" side of the French Horn to hit high notes with greater ease and with better intonation than is possible on the "F" side of the instrument. The player switches back and forth by pressing a forth valve with their thumb.