The Velvet Horn-Sound of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Presenter: Jack Munnecom

Since 1888, the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra Amsterdam has gained a reputation as one of the best orchestras in the world. The unique sound of the orchestra is lauded by many critics. The hornplayers contributed to this famous sound with their famous "velvet" horn-sound. In this lecture, I will introduce the principal hornplayers from the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra to the audience in a vivid presentation, supported by audio- and television-recordings. Next to "velvet" sound and playing style the audience will hear the stories behind the hornplayers. From US emigration in the early 20th century, the founder of the Amsterdam Horn tradition, a Virtuous and a Lyric (admired by Dennis Brain), the First Lady, a Genius untamable soloist to the modern generation, keeping the velvet sound and the tradition alive, the audience will learn about the history of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra.
The “velvet sound" hopefully will inspire other hornplayers to strive after the most beautiful sound everyone can make.