Top 10 Questions for English Horn Player Interview

1. Describe the techniques you use to produce a clear and resonant sound on the English horn?

To produce a clear and resonant sound on the English horn, I employ a combination of techniques:

• Embouchure: I maintain a firm but relaxed embouchure, allowing my lips to vibrate freely and produce a focused sound.
• Air Support: I control my airflow efficiently, using deep diaphragmatic breathing to support my playing and ensure a steady, even tone.
• Fingerings: I place my fingers accurately and use proper fingering techniques to create a clear and stable sound.
• Reed Choice: I select reeds that are appropriate for my playing style and the instrument’s setup, ensuring the reed vibrates properly and produces the desired sound.

2. How do you adjust your playing to accommodate different acoustic environments?

Accommodating Reverb

• I reduce my vibrato and use shorter, more detached notes to minimize resonance.
• I adjust my embouchure and airflow to avoid overblowing and produce a more focused sound.

Accommodating Dampening

• I increase my vibrato and use longer, more connected notes to create a fuller sound.
• I adjust my reed choice to a softer one, allowing for easier airflow and a warmer tone.

3. What strategies do you employ to improve your intonation on the English horn?

To improve my intonation, I employ several strategies:

• Regular Practice: I dedicate time to practicing scales and exercises that focus on intonation.
• Listening: I listen attentively to my playing and identify any deviations from the desired pitch.
• Tuning: I use a tuner to ensure my instrument is in tune and adjust it as needed.
• Alternate Fingerings: I utilize alternate fingerings to adjust the intonation of specific notes.
• Embouchure Adjustments: I make subtle adjustments to my embouchure to fine-tune my intonation.

4. Describe the extended techniques you have mastered on the English horn and how you incorporate them into your playing.

I have mastered several extended techniques on the English horn and incorporate them into my playing in creative ways:

• Multiphonics: I produce multiple pitches simultaneously by manipulating my airflow and embouchure.
• Flutter Tonguing: I use a rapid tongue flutter to create a trilling effect.
• Circular Breathing: I maintain a continuous stream of air by alternating breaths through my nose and mouth.
• Extended Fingerings: I extend my normal fingerings to play notes outside the standard range.

5. How do you prepare for a performance and ensure you deliver a successful outcome?

My preparation for a performance includes several key steps to ensure success:

• Thorough Practice: I practice diligently, focusing on accuracy, intonation, and musical interpretation.
• Instrument Maintenance: I ensure my instrument is in good condition, including proper reed adjustments.
• Mental Preparation: I visualize the performance and practice managing any potential nerves.
• Warm-Up: I engage in a thorough warm-up routine to prepare my embouchure and muscles.
• Collaboration: I communicate with my fellow musicians and conductor to ensure a cohesive performance.

6. Describe your experiences with playing in different ensembles, including chamber groups, orchestras, and wind bands.

I have extensive experience playing in various ensembles:

• Chamber Groups: I enjoy the intimate setting and collaborative nature of chamber music, where I can refine my ensemble skills.
• Orchestras: I value the opportunity to contribute to a larger musical collective and perform a wide range of repertoire.
• Wind Bands: I appreciate the unique challenges and opportunities of playing in a wind ensemble, focusing on wind instrument repertoire.

7. How do you balance your musical aspirations with the practicalities of maintaining a career as a musician?

Balancing my musical aspirations and career requires careful planning and prioritization:

• Time Management: I allocate time for practice, performances, and other musical activities while also attending to non-musical responsibilities.
• Networking: I build relationships with conductors, musicians, and organizations to expand my opportunities.
• Financial Planning: I manage my finances prudently to support my musical endeavors while maintaining financial stability.
• Flexibility: I adapt to the demands of the profession, including travel, irregular schedules, and the need to audition regularly.

8. What are your thoughts on contemporary music for the English horn and how do you approach performing it?

Contemporary music for the English horn presents unique challenges and opportunities:

• Extended Techniques: I embrace the use of extended techniques to expand the expressive possibilities of the instrument.
• Interpretation: I collaborate closely with composers to understand their intentions and find creative ways to interpret their music.
• Collaboration: I enjoy working with other musicians and artists to bring contemporary music to life.

9. Describe the role of the English horn in different musical genres and how you adapt your playing style accordingly.

The English horn plays diverse roles in different genres:

• Classical: I focus on lyrical playing, blending with the orchestra and supporting the musical narrative.
• Jazz: I explore improvisation, using the English horn’s unique sound to create atmospheric and expressive solos.
• Folk: I draw inspiration from traditional folk melodies, using the English horn’s haunting tone to add depth and emotion.

10. What are your favorite pieces to perform on the English horn and why?

My favorite pieces to perform on the English horn include:

• Holst’s “Egdon Heath”: I am drawn to its atmospheric and evocative nature, showcasing the instrument’s melancholic beauty.
• Strauss’s “Don Juan”: I enjoy the lyrical lines and technical demands of this piece, requiring a wide range of expression and agility.
• Britten’s “Serenade for Tenor, Horn, and Strings”: I appreciate the interplay between the English horn and voice, creating a poignant and intimate musical experience.

An English Horn Player is a highly skilled musician who plays the English horn, a double-reed woodwind instrument that is similar to the oboe. English Horn Players are employed by orchestras, bands, and other musical ensembles. They are responsible for playing the English horn in a variety of musical genres, including classical, jazz, and folk.

1. Perform on the English Horn

The primary responsibility of an English Horn Player is to perform on the English horn. This includes playing solos, duets, and other musical pieces. English Horn Players must be able to play the English horn with accuracy, intonation, and expression. They must also be able to play in a variety of styles and genres.

2. Rehearse with the Ensemble

English Horn Players must be able to rehearse with the ensemble in order to prepare for performances. This includes following the conductor’s instructions, playing in tune with the other musicians, and working together to create a cohesive sound. English Horn Players must also be able to adapt to changes in the music and to work with other musicians to create a successful performance.

3. Maintain the English Horn

English Horn Players are responsible for maintaining their own instruments. This includes cleaning the instrument, replacing reeds, and making minor repairs. English Horn Players must also be able to identify and diagnose problems with the instrument and to work with a repair technician to resolve the issue.

4. Promote the English Horn

English Horn Players can help to promote the English horn by performing in concerts, giving workshops, and writing articles about the instrument. They can also help to educate the public about the English horn and its unique sound. English Horn Players can play a vital role in ensuring that the English horn continues to be a popular and respected instrument.

Preparing for an interview for an English Horn Player position can be daunting, but with the right preparation, you can increase your chances of success. Here are a few tips to help you ace your interview:

1. Research the Orchestra or Ensemble

Take some time to research the orchestra or ensemble that you are interviewing with. This will help you to learn about the group’s history, repertoire, and artistic director. You can also use this information to tailor your answers to the interviewer’s questions.

2. Practice Your English Horn

Make sure that you practice your English horn regularly before your interview. This will help you to feel confident in your playing and to demonstrate your skills to the interviewer. You should also prepare a few pieces of music to play during your audition.

3. Be Prepared to Talk About Your Experience

The interviewer will likely ask you about your experience playing the English horn. Be prepared to talk about your training, your previous performances, and your goals for the future. You should also be able to articulate why you are interested in the position with the orchestra or ensemble.

4. Be Yourself

The most important thing is to be yourself during your interview. The interviewer wants to get to know you and to see if you would be a good fit for the orchestra or ensemble. Be honest, be professional, and be yourself.