The Singing Horn Player: Enhancing Performance with Vocal Transcriptions for Horn

Abstract

One possible way that horn players can improve their performance of horn literature and solo repertoire is through the study and performance of vocal transcriptions. Arias, songs and lieder provide a vehicle to learn and refine concepts of musical expression and technique. This project examines how vocal techniques can be applied to horn repertoire and culminates in the creation of three new vocal transcriptions for horn: “Martern aller Arten” from Die Entführung aus dem Serail, “Ach ich fühl’s” from Die Zauberflöte by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and “Es gibt ein Reich” from Ariadne auf Naxos by Richard Strauss. The creation of these transcriptions helps improve the horn player’s access to the operatic aria repertory and to the study and performance of vocal works by Strauss and Mozart, whose concerti are standard horn repertoire. In studying and performing operatic works by these composers, the horn player can have a more informed perspective of the style and intentions of the horn concerti. In addition, this paper will examine how vocal transcriptions are currently utilized and will make recommendations for including vocal techniques and music in lessons and practice.