The Brass Band Forum

One of the youngsters I help teach for a local fourth section band is shortly to be promoted to solo horn. Although I'm more than convinced of his ability (if his levels of progress and enthusiasm continue I firmly believe he will be an amazing player) he has confidence issues.

I was wondering if anyone can suggest some really easy horn solos that he can learn for the summer. Simple pieces he can not worry about what he's playing, and just enjoy standing up with the band. It's a while since I was at that stage and although you tend to see lots for cornet there never tends to be much for horn and I just wondered if anyone has some ideas?

This is rather nice;

http://www.tubbpublishing.com/ave.htm

CB

Thanks, any additional suggestions gratefully accepted.

Any more suggestions ladies and gents? Also, any good mail-order places you can suggest - I've been barred from Trevada Music because I refused to be served by Simon Phillips (see my other thread for the reason why). But then, Accent Music right across the road there's just as good, aint that right Mr Adams!!!

Hope this reply isn't too late...
I recently played my first solo with my university band and played Demelza which is actually a soprano solo but obviously is in the same key as the horn. It's not too difficult and the band accompanying parts are fantastic.
Alternatively He Aint Heavy He's My Brother is a good option. It's easy and because it's a tune everyone knows, will go down well with audience and hopefully player.

Good luck with it,
Hannah

Both of those had been considered, but He Aint Heavy sounds so much better when it's all played including the top Cs and I don't think he'll manage to come in on the top Bb in Demelza third line from the end when he's stood up on stage (I've done both at solo contests myself and know them from memory). He's not that old and hasn't been playing that long.

We've decided to have a bash at Alfie - although there are some higher notes in the arrangement we've got our hands on, it's written in such a way that he can take it down an octave without anyone noticing. We're going to learn it both ways and then he can do whatever he feels comfortable with on stage. Thanks for the suggestions though.