Horns are symbols of power and strength as were the horned beasts of elephants, bulls and boars - from which they were first made. The horn was originally used as a signaling instrument for hunting purpose.

By the end of the 18th century, crooks were used to extend the compass of harmonics. The valve horn was invented in the early 19th century, and soon solved the problem of frequent changes of crooks in performance. The French horn is capable of a variety of tone colors that range from the warm & expressive to the rich & powerful.