These very large instruments are closely linked to mountainous regions throughout Europe, Latin America and parts of Asia. They play simple melodies which carry great distances; their sound is determined by the materials used and their overall length. Made from birch, fir, poplar, cherry or other woods, alphorns are often constructed out of a hollowed narrow log wrapped with bark, roots or cane. They can range in length from 4 to more than 12 feet. They have no keys or reeds; as with other natural horns, you play different pitches by adjusting your embouchure (that is, the position and tension of your lips which vibrate on the mouthpiece) and by overblowing.
The essence of alphorn music is one of balance: performers stress the need to combine physical control - essential to produce the long sustaining tone needed for this instrument- with a sense of harmony and integration with your natural environment. This music is considered by some as a form of personal meditation.
Alphorns have a rich history! Likely originating around 8th century AD, they've been described in written texts since 1527 (for example, in treatises from the monastery of St. Urban.) Historically, we know that alphorns were also used as signaling devices to assemble people for war (for example, the Peasants War in Switzerland in 1653). By 1826, lessons in alphorn blowing were taught in Switzerland, guilds (professional musical organizations) established and competitive festivals introduced in Switzerland and Austria by the late 19th century.
Although alphorns are considered pastoral or folk instruments, their sound has also been represented in European art music repertoire. For example, Beethoven's Pastoral Symphony includes an alphorn tune to suggest a rural ambiance, as does Brahms' Symphony no. 1.
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