French Horn
The French horn is the also a member of the brass family. Its sound is produced by buzzing into a small mouthpiece similar to a trumpet. Only the top 8-10 will be selected to play French horn. Students with good musical ears should consider French Horn.
 
Physical Characteristics
A slight overbite is okay, but an underbite can severely hinder progress on French Horn. Because the bell of the French horn rests on the knee of the player while playing, it is imperative that a student’s upper torso be long enough to accommodate the size of the French horn to make good sounds and that players be able to demonstrate sitting straight up when asked to do so. The French horn’s keys are manipulated with the LEFT hand.
 
Other Considerations
Students who choose (and are selected) to play French Horn are REQUIRED to take weekly private lessons with the applied lesson teacher at CTMS. Private lessons cost $20.00 per week and scholarships are available based on financial need and demonstration of diligent work ethic. 

Because of the difficult nature of French horn notes (mentioned above), students should exhibit GREAT ability to match sung or played pitches by humming or singing. Perhaps this is a good instrument choice for students who have participated in piano lessons or honor choir groups. Students with a history of academic or behavioral problems will NOT be selected for French horn. The financial trade-off for having to take lessons is that Cross Timbers Middle School provides French Horns for students at a cost of $100 rental for an entire school year payable to GCISD for routine maintenance.  Private lessons are required for French Horn due to the complexity of the instrument.