Siegfried’s Blog

The JoyKey inner bore video

Fri, 5 Feb 2010 12:21:11 -0500

I have added a video showing the interior bore of a JoyKey on a nickel silver F tuning slide from a Reynolds Contempora. Loading times may vary.... enjoy!

Scott Bacon

CardoCases, hand-made horn cases from Germany.

Tue, 2 Feb 2010 16:17:25 -0500

Nearly a year ago we had spoken with the folks at CardoCases, as they contacted us to tell us about this new project that they have been working on. Since then we have sold a few cases and I must say, we are very impressed with the consistent quality and overall look and feel of these detachable bell horn cases.

The cases are very protective. The foam padding is strong, firm, yet forgiving, and the cloth materials that nestle your “baby” are of a beautiful high quality. Some are made with a satin quilted material, and others come with a faux suede. Every time I look in the cases a smile comes to my face because it is simple, elegant, and fun.

The bell flare locks right into the lid of the case by tucking it under a lip that holds it in place. The corpus nestles into the beautiful cloth lined area, and is surrounded by protective padding.

All of the materials, connections, straps, etc. are assembled by hand in Germany. The cases are truly exciting. CardoCases come in 2 sizes, S or small corpus for you Alexander 103, Duerk D3, Cornford 28 players, and the M for nearly all your standard Kruspe, Geyer, Schmidt, type horns. From personal experience the Duerk D4, LDx5, Otto 180K, LDx7, E. Schmid double, Yamaha 667, 668, 861, Conn 8D, Duerk D8, Hoyer Double Horns, should have no trouble fitting this case.

Due to the fact that these cases are made with the ideas of beauty of design, comfort, structural integrity, and come from Germany, expect to pay more than you are used to. But when you put your hands on them, you will notice a difference.

A CardoCase weighs about 12 pounds with a double horn enclosed.

To see more pictures or to order your CardoCase, please click here.

To learn more about CardoCases, watch videos, view more pictures, etc. please go to the CardoCases website here: www.CardoCases.com

The JoyKey is now available!

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 18:45:50 -0500

A Revolutionary New Solution to water build up in brass instruments!

Imagine being able to eliminate the centuries old problem and the associated stress caused by water building up in brass instruments from your playing experience.

The JoyKey, a quality product made in Germany, is a revolutionary new solution for effortlessly and effectively removing water from brass instruments.

The JoyKey system enhances accuracy and productivity. Practicing and performing are more rewarding, fun and enjoyable.

(the text above was extracted from the Joy Key website)

Ok.... here is my own personal experience....

I have one of these on my horn and I was teaching a 2 hour long lesson on Monday. I played on and off for those 2 hours, my horn cooling down and heating up constantly through the lesson. I noticed... about an hour and a half way into the lesson, that I hadn’t once needed to drain my horn of water. NOT ONCE! This is truly amazing. I did notice that my student needed to stop and turn the horn, pull crooks, and continually struggle with water collecting in the horn while working on Kopprasch.

What can I say other than you will just have to pick one or two up, have them installed by me or someone close to you, and try it out! I know that once you experience the JoyKey for yourself, you will wonder why it took so long to develop such a cool device!

I sell them in my shop for $39.95. (not installed) To order the JoyKey, please click here.

For more information, please refer to: www.theJoyKey.com

I also have replacement WaterWick packs available for the JoyKey. The average life span of the WaterWick is about 3 - 6 months... so buy a replacement pack with the JoyKey and you are good for about a year and a half!

For Replacement WaterWicks, please click here.

If you want to have the JoyKey installed by a repair technician in your area, let them know about the JoyKey, we are the exclusive U.S. distributer and are looking for dealers across the country.

Happy Horning!!!

Scott Bacon

Production of the Duerk Q11 Triple Horn has started

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 18:01:10 -0500

The newest horn model from the great line of quality German horns made by Dietmar Duerk is the Model Q11 Triple Horn. The horn weighs an amazing 2850 grams, which includes the bell ring, adjustable finger hook and adjustable hand rest! I have had the opportunity to blow on this horn and have to say that I am very impressed with the evenness of sound from all 3 horns. The horn feels great in the hand, with individually adjustable thumb pads for both the low F/Bb linkage and the high F linkage. The use of Meinlschmidt valves has awarded Mr. Duerk the opportunity to design and create a completely new valve design, which allows the horn to have very long tapers, even for the shorter high F side. But he did not stop there. Upon further inspection, Mr. Duerk has carefully calculated weights of standard parts and has modified many of them to lower weight, but not the stability and structural strength of the instrument. Any horn player who wishes to, or currently plays a triple horn should be very excited about this horn. Click on the pictures above for a gallery, or email me at info@siegfriedscall.com for more information. Currently, the price is only $14,999.00 as shown. Let me know if you are interested, so that we can set up a trial period.

Super Sale on select Moosewood Mouthpieces

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0400

We have taken advantage of an opportunity to buy out the existing inventory of Moosewood cups and rims from another music store. I have created a list that you can check out. There are more cups than rims. I ask that all sales be final, as we are offering these cups and rims at an attractive discount.
Click here to see the list!

The Lewis & Duerk Model LDx7 “Schmidt”

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:35:50 -0500

Announcing the newest model from Lewis & Duerk!
The LDx7 “Schmidt” Model Double French Horn
This horn features:
traditional tapers and design
hand-lapped nickel silver inner/outer slides
standard detachable bell
interchangeable thumb piston Bb or F
nickel silver “Lewis” lead pipe
adjustable finger hook and flipper
water key on the lead pipe

We now have the LDx5 “Geyer”, LDx6 “Descant”, and LDx7 “Schmidt” models in stock. We will be bringing these horns with us to the shows in March:
South East Horn Workshop
North Horn Workshop
Mid-South Horn Workshop

We will also be showing these instruments at the IHS Symposium in Macomb, IL.

Click below for more pictures of the LDx7!

IHCA Interview with Jonathan Johnson

Mon, 3 Nov 2008 14:40:56 -0500

The International Horn Competition of America promotes excellence in horn playing by creating a competitive atmosphere for both professional and university students to put their hard work to the test. Winners of past competitions achieve highly successful careers due to the prestige of winning the competition. We have conducted an exclusive interview with Jonathan Johnson, winner of the University Division competition in 2007. For more information about The International Horn Competition of America, please visit www.ihcamerica.org , and don’t forget to come back and read this interview!

Profile
Name:Jonathan Johnson
Age:28
Hometown: Dunkirk, Maryland.
Current Address:Los Angeles, California.
Year started horn: 1992
1st teachers name: Walt Cole

Equipment:
1st horn ever: The first horn I learned on was a single F Yamaha belonging to my junior high school.
Current horn: The first horn I ever owned is the horn I play on now: a Conn 8D I bought new in 2004.
Horn used in competition: Conn 8D.
Mouthpiece: At the time of the competition, I was playing on a CKB-7BW I bought with my horn. Since then, I've switched to a Moosewood R3 rim and an Atkinson B cup 1 bore.
Mute: Ion Balu
Case: Tuxedo gig bag.

Education
High School: GED
Undergraduate: Brigham Young University
Degree: Bachelor of Music Performance
Post Graduate: University of Southern California
Degree: Master of Music Performance (in progress)

Employment

I'm working on my masters degree, which limits how much I can work. I mostly work as a freelance horn player, although I occasionally work as an accompanist. During my undergrad I taught piano lessons and delivered pizza.

The Interview

SC:
First of all, congratulations on winning last year's International Horn Competition of America, University Division. How has winning this prestigious event changed your life?

JJ:
I'm working toward winning a professional orchestra job, and my experience of preparing for and winning IHCA is extremely relevant to this part of my life. I first entered the competition in 2005, but did not advance past the preliminary round. Instead, I got motivated and spent the next two years working my butt off to become a better player. I think experiencing the competition at two different times with different levels of proficiency gave me some perspective on what it takes to win anything. I believe winning is all about preparation, not just in the weeks leading up to a specific event, but in your daily efforts to improve. The time I spent working specifically for the competition was nothing more than a focused outgrowth of practice habits and technical skills I had already spent years developing. I think of the audition process the same way. I may not win or even advance in the next audition, but I'll play a little better each time until I win a job. Having this win under my belt is a major confidence booster as I take auditions.

SC:
How long did you prepare for the competition?

JJ:
I spent about three months preparing specifically for the competition, but it was on my mind for two years prior to that. Everything I did as a soloist was with IHCA at the back of my mind.

SC:
What was the most difficult challenge you faced in your preparation? Describe the most challenging obstacle in the music you performed.

JJ:
Endurance has always been a challenge for me. I have a tendency to use too much muscle and not enough air. At one point in my preparation, I was taking this to such an extreme that I could barely get through the first movement of Mozart 4 without exhausting myself. Most of my technical development happened with Larry Lowe, but Jim Thatcher's concept of using air has resulted in quantum leaps in my efficiency. He taught me to let the air do the work, to find places to rest while playing, and to use muscle to shape rather than force the sound.

SC:
Please describe the single greatest personal achievement during your preparations.

JJ:
Winning. I entered this competition because I wanted to prove some things to myself, and winning accomplished that. Also, while preparing, I achieved a level of focus beyond anything I had done before.

SC:
With preparation in mind, how many hours would you say you practiced daily specific to this competition?

JJ:
Up to 3.

SC:
That’s great! To many reading this, they may think efficient! Moving on to the actual day, what, from your experience, could you say about the competition environment?

JJ:
Professional yet relaxed and collegial. Professional in the sense that rehearsals and competition slots were scheduled and ran on time. Relaxed and collegial in that competitors were friendly and helpful with each other. Each competitor received written comments from the judges, and those who didn't advance to the final round had the opportunity to talk with the judges and ask questions.

SC:
Did you have any stress or anxiety associated with the competition?

JJ:
My anxiety level is directly affected by how prepared I feel. I worked extremely hard to prepare for the competition, so by the time I got there I felt prepared and comfortable with how my pieces sounded. That eliminated a lot of my potential stress. Performance anxiety can be channeled in positive directions. Replace the word "anxiety" with "anticipation" or "excitement" and it suddenly becomes a positive rather than a negative. Anxiety implies dread of something you don't want to do. Anticipation or excitement implies eagerness for something you do want. I don't dread performing- I love and look forward to it. When I perform, I don't feel like I'm on my way to the guillotine- I feel like I'm front of an audience that has chosen to come listen to me and wants me to do well. I don't allow myself to dwell beforehand on what could go wrong. Instead, I imagine everything working perfectly and the audience leaping to their feet at the end of the performance. I love my sound. Pardon me if that sounds egotistical, but I've found that I can eliminate a lot of fear and negative thinking by consciously enjoying the sound of my instrument as I play it.

SC:
Great insight. Could you describe your ideal horn sound, in one word?

JJ:
Rich. By that, I mean solid and full of overtones.

SC:
What would you describe to be your greatest motivator?

JJ:
I love playing horn more than almost anything else. Performing for an appreciative audience is one of the most satisfying experiences of my life.

SC:
Who is/are your mentor(s)?

JJ:
My horn teachers, most recently Jim Thatcher and Larry Lowe, have always been my primary mentors. I've also received very good advice from some of my colleagues.

SC:
Which teachers have you worked with?

JJ:
My first teacher in the Seattle area was Walt Cole. I moved to Maryland after a year with Mr. Cole, and studied with Jim Gollmer of Severna Park. My undergraduate horn professor was Larry Lowe. I am now studying with Jim Thatcher at USC.

SC:
Do you have a philosophical approach to your playing? If so, is this from your own experiences, or have you adapted one from a specific teacher?

JJ:
Yes. My philosophy is a mixture of my own opinions and ideas I've picked up from teachers, workshops, and colleagues. Someone once told me that music performance is one of a very few professions that is purely about the present rather than the future. You don't hire a building contractor just so you can sit on site and watch him work- you just want a house built. The thought of paying someone to do a job just so you can sit and watch them do their job seems absurd in most contexts. But that's exactly what people do when they buy concert tickets. Music isn't about getting a recital or concert "over with"- it's about enjoying what's happening right now. A performer should have every bit as much fun performing as the audience does listening. Playing the French horn is like having an extremely jealous and demanding girlfriend. If you don't devote enough time and energy to it, you'll be sorry you ever picked it up. I realized a few years ago that I could never play the horn as a hobby. It's an all or nothing proposition: I either put in the time and effort to do it at a high level, or I give it up and find another way to make a living. I cannot be satisfied with any kind of compromise.

SC:
Very interesting, so how do you balance work/life?

JJ:
It's important to have a life outside of the horn. I love the instrument, but I don't spend every waking moment thinking about it. I read books and visit websites that have nothing to do with my profession, and I listen to non-classical music. I also try to stay physically active because I think I play better when I'm in good shape.

SC:
OK, back to talking about the competition. Specifically the repertoire. Were there restrictions on repertoire, or were you able choose your own music for your performance? Please list the pieces you chose to perform, and their respective editions.

JJ:
The IHCA provides a list of options for each round.
1st round:
Mozart 4 mvt. 1 - Schirmer/Barry Tuckwell edition, and Larry Lowe Sonata no. 1 for Horn and Piano mvt. 3- available from RM Williams publishing.
2nd round:
Malcolm Arnold Fantasy for Horn from Faber Music.
3rd round:
Strauss 2 Boosey and Hawkes.

SC:
What guided your artistic decision making?

JJ:
Advice from my teachers, professional recordings of my competition pieces. Occasionally an original thought of my own.

SC:
Would you recommend a specific recording that inspired you?

JJ:
Herman Bauman's recording of the two Strauss concertos and the Weber Concertino. I first heard this recording when I was 17, and it was my first exposure to these pieces. At the time, I was profoundly moved by the 2nd movement of Strauss 1.

SC:
Which instrument did you choose for the competition? Why?

JJ:
I played the competition on my Conn 8D, because it is the only instrument I own, and I am very comfortable with it. I'm not wedded to any one horn- I believe the instrument is a tool, and a smart player chooses the tool that helps them best do the job. If I end up winning a job in a section where my Conn isn't an ideal fit, then I'll buy a new horn to fit in.

SC:
Of all the makes and models that Siegfried's Call offers, which would interest you the most?

JJ:
I'm not sure. I'm extremely comfortable with my Conn, so up to now I haven't spent much time learning about or trying different instruments. At some point I'll probably want to own a descant, a single B flat, and possibly a Geyer wrap double, but I don't know enough about makes and models to say which I'd choose.

SC:
That’s great, if you ever need help... let us know. But moving on:
What will the future bring to Mr. Johnson?

JJ:
I'm in my second year of the Master of Music program at USC. I'm also taking auditions for orchestral positions. I'll probably stay in school until I win a job, although I have no plans to pursue a DMA.

SC:
Do you plan to compete next year at the Professional level?

JJ:
Probably not. I've accomplished what I wanted by winning the University Division, and my immediate priority is winning a job. I may consider the Pro Division in the future.

SC:
Can you offer any advice to other horn players considering the university division of this competition for next year?

JJ:
Memorize your music. This is visually impressive, and the judges will appreciate it. Also, if you can perform from memory, you will have an intimate knowledge of your music which will enable you to focus on the big picture rather than the notes as you perform. You'll have a better chance of advancing and winning if you perform repertoire that is most impressive to this particular panel of judges. During the first round, you'll most likely have a choice of a Mozart first movement, and one of several other pieces. Avoid Mozart 1 and 3. Instead, play Mozart 2 or 4, as these are performed by most competitors who advance. Also, choose flashy, technical pieces over slow lyrical ones. Technical virtuosity seems to be very important to the judges. Take opportunities to perform your pieces prior to the competition. If you have a recital coming up, program your competition repertoire. This will give you a chance to work out the kinks and get comfortable with your delivery. Practice with an accompanist. Ask them what you could do to make it easier for them to follow you.

SC:
Oops, I forgot to ask, did you choose to stand, or sit? Why?

JJ:
I chose to stand. I think that a live performance is visual experience as well as an auditory one, and appearances matter. A player who stands projects confidence and is more impressive visually than one who sits. Also, I'm more comfortable standing when I play solos.

SC:
Thank you for your time. We at Siegfried's Call would like to congratulate you once again. Do you have any parting words or thoughts?

JJ:
If you don't ask, the answer is always "no." If you take the audition, you might get the job. If you don't take the audition, you definitely won't. Stick your neck out and take advantage of opportunities whenever you can.

To learn more about Jonathan Johnson, please visit his website at:
www.hornartist.com

Protec Cases

Thu, 9 Oct 2008 12:10:48 -0400

We just received a shipment of the newest addition to the Protec line of cases for french horn. The all new iPAC model IP316SB, is much like the original MB “clamshell” style of detachable bell horn cases. The quality and pricing is the best we have seen, so we expect this case to do very well.

I am a bit disappointed that the case does not come with the backpack straps, and you have to separately order them, but the shoulder strap that it comes with is very sturdy and comfortable on the shoulder. The nylon exterior fits snugly, and the zippers have a very solid feel.

Inside the case you will find a “seat belt” for the corpus, a patch of vinyl to protect the case where the end of the lead pipe rests, a mouthpiece pouch that fits 2 mouthpieces, an accessory bin that has an elastic attachment that forces the lid shut automatically. The bell flare fits inside a cushioned protective sleeve and attaches loosely to the hinge of the case by velcro. Although this may sound strange, it actually is a very nice feature, holding everything in place. The protective sleeve also has a soft felt-like strap that holds the flare inside the sleeve by a velcro fastener.

Overall I give this case pretty high praise. The wooden shell adds a bit more weight than a Marcus Bonna MB1, but the fit is pretty good for a variety of horn designs. If you are looking for a detachable bell case, and are weighing quality/price, the iPAC beats the MB1. But in overall function, I would still rate the MB1 above the iPAC.

Let us know if you have any questions. Please click here to see more information about the iPAC, and view our web gallery.

All the best,
Scott & Andrea Bacon
Siegfried’s Call

Marcus Bonna Cases

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 10:44:46 -0400

We would like to take a moment and announce that we have Marcus Bonna Cases in stock, and are active dealers.

I have added a section to our website that allows you to view many pictures of the various models we currently have. Click here to see the product page.

You can shop online by clicking the “buy now” button. This will automatically add the item to a shopping cart. As you will see, I have offered shipping options that you will also need to choose to add to your cart. Sorry for any confusion in advance, but this is currently the most effective way to maintain online shopping with our website.

When you shop online with us, your cart will add or subtract items automatically when you click on those items. To subtract an item from the cart, simply zero out the quantity and click the recalculate button at the bottom of the page.

When you click “go to payments”, you will start to enter your personal data, which will be securely stored by our service and notify us that you have placed an order. Your credit card will not be charged until we review the order and confirm with you by email or phone.

In some instances, you may place an order and the item may not be in stock. If this occurs, you will be notified of delivery time so that you can choose to go forward with the order or cancel.

We have photographed the various Marcus Bonna Case Models with both Geyer-Style and Kruspe-Style horns, so that you may better see how your personal horn may fit.

Happy shopping, and let us know of any bugs in the system so that we can continue to improve our online experience.

Sincerely,

Scott & Andrea Bacon

IHS, Denver 2008

Mon, 9 Jun 2008 15:16:40 -0400

“The 40th International Horn Symposium will be held in Denver, Colorado! This exciting event will be presented July 22nd-27th, 2008 at the Lamont School of Music, University of Denver. From the world class featured artists and lecturers to the great exhibitors that will be present to the beauty of the Colorado mountains, we’re sure you’ll be entertained and inspired by the week!

Because of it’s many tourist opportunities, Colorado is a popular vacation destination. Located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is one of America's most beautiful cities, and noted for being the setting of many fun activities. With its central location, it is a lively city with a great love of the outdoors and is blessed with over 300 days of sunshine a year. Denver provides an ideal setting for The 40th Annual International Horn Symposium.

We hope you will join us in July for a week that promises to be fabulous!

Susan McCullough

Host, 40th International Horn Symposium” -- from www.ihs40.com

Siegfried’s Call will be there! We are going to exhibit an array of horns that you should definitely come check out! New to the table this year will be the Lewis & Duerk model LDx6, a descant horn that is receiving rave reviews in Germany, and the new Duerk model D8.

Also, the newest model from Dieter Otto, the 182 will be with us.

Robert Worischek is unveiling the newest Geyer style double horn from his line up, fresh from being play tested by members of the Berlin Philharmonic and the Vienna Phil...

In addition to these new models, we will have the following ready for you to test:
Otto Horn: 180KGM, 180KM, 182NS, 166M
Duerk: D4M, D8M, D8NS, D3M
Cornford: CH28M
Robert Worischek: Nr. 12M
Lewis & Duerk: LDx5, LDx6

We hope that you can come to the IHS Symposium this summer and stop by our table. Introduce yourself to us!

All the best, Scott & Andrea Bacon

Abby Mayer: The Diaphragm, breath support, and the horn...

Wed, 21 May 2008 10:06:39 -0400

On Sunday, May 18th, Abby Mayer invited young, talented students to his house, and in his words:

“My goal in having students attend Horn/Bash sessions is multi-sided: I wish to give students an opportunity to perform, to reinforce what is covered in lessons, to match up their ability against other peers, to challenge them, and identify to parents the quality of work, progress and achievement expected from their sons and daughters.”

Abby scheduled the day as follows:

1. Introductory talk.
2. Demonstration and exercises related to Diaphragmatic Breathing.
3. Follow up by Michele Rossi Miller, Qi-Gong Instructor.
4. Individual unaccompanied performances by students, followed by a selection performed by Abby, Maxwell Davies, Sea Eagle with Michael Falco, Narrator.)
5. Horn Talk by Scott Bacon.
Snacks and Socializing...

Although the day was cold, wet, and rainy, students, parents, neighbors, and friends came and were exposed not only to excellent horn playing, but the higher level of intellectual approaches that horn players need to focus on in order to better their art. Abby, a dynamic man, full of energy and a life dedicated to the horn, started by using a medical chart to show where the diaphragm exists. He spoke of the different muscle groups, and the importance of breathing deep, expanding/stretching the abdominal muscles, and posture. Abby spent some time, working with the students, introducing the concept of energy from the ground up.... a concept that has also helped me personally...

Michele Rossi, a Qi-Gong instructor, fluently morphed her segment of the schedule to create stretching techniques for the students to prepare their bodies for performance/practice.

As I stood up, I discussed areas of the body that create resistance, such as the throat, mouth, and embouchure... I applied the ideals of diaphragmatic breathing set forth by Abby to warm up exercises, including the stretches and stance from Michele Rossi, and asked volunteer students to participate in discovering how their approach to horn holding position, posture, and stance, can dramatically change their results. Abby’s discussion of deep breathing, and drawing energy from the ground up was tied in to these exercises as well. I also discussed how resistance in a horn has positive and negative implications. Which is right for you will change based on your current situation, but understanding why certain horns that have more/less resistance can help you focus on the reason why some performance problems may be yours to work on, and others may be inherited by your instrument choices.

When I wrapped my segment up, we had some refreshments, snacks, and everyone clustered around Abby, Michele, and I to discuss what they learned and how it applied to them directly.

In closing, I feel that these sorts of events help encourage a wider understanding of the horn. It helps the community to develop a stronger awareness of the beauty, dedication, and self discipline the horn can offer us all. It enriches our lives, and many many thanks go out to Abby Mayer for organizing such an event.

Abby, All the Best!!

PS --- Abby will be teaching at the Kendal Betts Horn Camp for 3 weeks next month...

We now have TrumCor Mutes

Fri, 16 May 2008 19:56:05 -0400

Finally, we have been able to pick up some nice mutes made by hand from TrumCor. Check out the little web gallery I made, and also you will find a nice link in the mute section under the heading accessories.

I hope that you like them very much, and remember, the shipping is free!

Scott & Andrea...
(PS... If you play a TrumCor mute and want to comment about your specific model.... what you like about it.... and all that stuff.. please add a comment to this blog.)

IWHP 2008 with John Clark & Jeffrey Agrell

Wed, 14 May 2008 11:04:57 -0400

IMPROVISATION WORKSHOP FOR HORN PLAYERS
Friday July 11th to Sunday July 13th, 2008
Heath, Franklin County, Massachusetts
with
John Clark and Jeffrey Agrell

The Second Annual Improvisation Workshop for Horn Players will be held
July 2008 in the rural and scenic town of Heath, located in northwestern Massachusetts. The event will be directed by John Clark and Jeff Agrell.

The cost of the workshop is $200 and enrollment will be limited to 25 participants. (The fee includes lunch on Saturday and Sunday.)

The workshop will provide an introduction to improvisation, both jazz (Clark) and non-jazz (Agrell), for traditionally trained horn players. It is open to all horn players and no improvisation experience is necessary. Planned for each day are workshop sessions plus informal “concerts.” We would also like you to enjoy the beauty of the area, and we are planning some (optional) “fun” events as well.

John Clark is Horn professor at SUNY Purchase and author of “Exercises for Jazz French Horn.” He will lead the jazz sessions. These will alternate with the non-jazz sessions led by Jeff Agrell and Evan Mazunik. Jeff is Horn professor at the University of Iowa and author of “Improvisation Games for Classical Musicians.” Evan is a well-known improvising pianist and Soundpainting conductor.

We’re looking forward to having the workshop in Heath. Summer is the perfect time to visit this small Massachusetts “hilltown” just south of Vermont.

For more details, please email
John Clark (john@hmmusic.com) or
Jeff Agrell (jeffrey-agrell@uiowa.edu).

click the links below to download and return

Registration Form 2008 IHW.pdf

IWHP Website Schedule.pdf

*text and links extracted from www.hmmusic.com

Douglas William Stump, 30, has died today.

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 16:10:52 -0400

We regret to inform our customers that we will not be able to exhibit at the NEHW 2008 this year.

We have learned early this morning that my brother, Douglas William Stump, has died at age 30. He is survived by his lovely 2 year old daughter Ruby, and numerous family and friends who are mourning this horrible and tragic loss.

Doug Stump was a gifted individual, with an incredibly sharp character and love of life. He had a passion for working in the service industry both as bartender and waiter. When he laughed it would ignite the room with joy, and his smile alone would warm the coldest hearts. Our Dougie was a dreamer, and he had big dreams. All who knew Doug well couldn’t help but envy his enormous potential. We are truly shocked by his early departure.

Our thoughts and prayers are with him now, as he has left us for what lies next.

Hey Doug.... wherever you are now... We love you and miss you.

Our deepest regrets to those who expected our attendance at the NEHW 2008. Please contact us so that we may assist you in the near future.

Regards,

Scott & Andrea Bacon

The LDx6 has new pictures.

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 13:06:30 -0500

Lewis & Duerk have finally finished the LDx6 descant horn. We have some new photos to show the unique design. Let us know if you are interested in this horn, and contact us with any questions you may have. We may have this model available to test in Denver at the IHS Symposium.

All the best,

Scott & Andrea Bacon

The D8 has arrived!

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 13:02:36 -0500

We finally have the new D8 in stock! We will be bringing this model to many workshops and events this year, and so far it has really stirred some interest.

Keep checking back for more information. If you tested this model, please feel free to write your comments below.

Sincerely,
Scott & Andrea Bacon

Meister Hans Hoyer (MHH) available at Siegfried's Call

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 12:58:15 -0500

Siegfried’s Call is happy to announce that we are now a regional dealer of Meister Hans Hoyer Horns. Meister Hans Hoyer Horns are among the finest instruments being built in a factory setting anywhere in the world. The tradition that MHH Horns incorporates in their manufacturing facility is unlike any other in terms of skilled workers on the line. We are proud to represent MHH Horns as their standards of excellence match our philosophy of high-performance.

With the addition of MHH Horns to our line up, we are able to provide our customers with:
1. a competitive lower price range for your budget
2. an expanded product line up
3. expert budget friendly consultation
4. high-performance student instruments
5. an aggressive service-guarantee and factory warranty

Even though many models are ordered with standard options, MHH Horns offers many options to each model that our customers may consider. When browsing our website, be sure to check out the numerous options that are available. Also, we have some MHH instruments in stock and offer a trial period to those interested.

At Siegfried’s Call, you have the choice. You have the options. You are important to us. Let us know how we can help. Schedule a consultation, email us with questions, or simply call. We are here to help. Click here for more information about MHH Horns.

Sincerely,

Scott & Andrea Bacon (click to email)
Siegfried’s Call

The Southeast Horn Workshop 2008, Georgia

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 13:07:12 -0500

Siegfried’s Call will be attending the SEHW 2008 in Columbus, Georgia. The workshop is hosted by Kristen Hansen and the Columbus State University Horn Studio at the Schwob School of Music.
This year we hope to have the new Duerk D8 model, the Cornford 28, the Lewis & Duerk LDx5, and Meister Hans Hoyer Horns on display in conjunction with several models from Dieter Otto as well. We are pleased to be able to attend the event, and if anyone has questions for us leading up to the workshop, feel free to contact us.
This year is a treat in deed, as my former teacher, Eric Ruske will be performing, as well as Randy Gardner. For more specific information about the workshop, or to register, please visit http://www.southeasthornworkshop.org/ .
See you there!
Scott H. Bacon

Lewis & Dürk LDx5

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 15:31:04 -0500

As we start the year off, I thought it would be interesting for people to post their comments about this horn. The LDx5 has been receiving great accolades from our customers, but they haven’t had an opportunity to voice their opinions openly. If you play the LDx5, feel free to post a comment to this blog.

If you place a comment, thank you very much for your support.

Sincerely,

Scott & Andrea Bacon
Siegfried’s Call

Northeast Horn Workshop 2008

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 15:00:53 -0500

Siegfried’s Call announces that it will be attending the Northeast Regional Horn Workshop at Skidmore College March 14-16th in Saratoga Springs, NY.

This year’s workshop is hosted by Patrice Malatestinic (email: nehc08@gmail.com). The workshop will include performances and lectures from some of our finest players, including: Julie Landsman, Peter Kurau, Eli Epstein, and David Amram.

Siegfried’s Call will have numerous horns on display at the event including: LDx5, CH28, OH180K, OH166K, OH182, OH166, MHH 6801, MHH 801, D4, D8, and possibly a new arrival from Robert Worischek, the RW12. Please visit our website to learn more about these instruments.

If you would like more information about the NEHW ’08, please visit their website by clicking here. Don’t forget to come back and visit us at www.SiegfriedsCall.com!

Sincerely,
Scott & Andrea Bacon
Siegfried’s Call

NYSSMA 2007

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 14:06:00 -0500

I added a web gallery of our display at the New York State School Music Association conference in November 2007.

Important to note for teachers in the NY area are the B&S trumpets and Meister Hans Hoyer Horns. These instruments offer a very high quality at a competitive price point. Let me know if you would like to know more about these fine instruments.

Also, as a side note, it was great to reacquaint myself with so many colleagues from the Crane School and Boston University.

If you need repairs, or are looking for an instrument for recommendation, don’t forget Siegfried’s Call !

sincerely,
Scott & Andrea Bacon

Siegfried’s Call and B&S team up!

Thu, 28 Jun 2007 13:59:57 -0400

At the ITG in Amherst, MA this year, Siegfried’s Call wasn’t only showing the Jazz Floobee. We were also in charge of all B&S Trumpet sales, as we are now dealers for B&S trumpets here in NY. We are very excited to offer these fine instruments. For some pics of the table, click here.
Thanks,
Scott & Andrea Bacon
Siegfried’s Call

The new Jazz Floobee has arrived!

Thu, 28 Jun 2007 13:53:46 -0400

Siegfried’s Call has added 2 new flugelhorns to our inventory. The innovative, new Jazz Floobee is available to play-test. For more information about this fantastic flugelhorn, please click here.

Bell flare upgrade from Otto Horns

Thu, 28 Jun 2007 13:29:04 -0400

Dieter and Martin have developed a new upgrade to their horn line. The new, single seam, hand-hammered bell flare offers beauty both aesthetically, and tonally!

Check out our photos page to see this beautiful addition to their already fantastic line of products!

If you play on the OHBMSKhh, let us know what you think of it!

Thanks,
Scott & Andrea Bacon
Siegfried’s Call

Northwest Horn Symposium, part 2

Wed, 6 Jun 2007 14:12:44 -0400

I don’t know what the coordinators were trying to do to us, but every morning they had a big box of fresh, Krispy Cream donuts teasing us the entire day!

We had a wonderful time in Boise, and would recommend to anyone from the Pacific northwest region to seriously consider attending the next time it is scheduled. Being our first time in the northwest of the US, we were greeted warmly by all the attendees. To see pictures of the event, click here .

Although it is a long way from NY, we would certainly like to come back and display our horns at your next event.

Thanks to all who stopped by and introduced yourselves to us.

Thank you Tom Bacon

Wed, 6 Jun 2007 13:59:06 -0400

I would like to thank Tom Bacon for adding Siegfried’s call to this links page.

Tom’s website is fun, and informative. Visit Tom Bacon’s website here: http://www.hornplanet.com

Thanks again and happy horning!

The Dieter Otto model 166

Wed, 6 Jun 2007 13:17:39 -0400

Occasionally a horn is made that stands out from the crowd. The Dieter Otto model 166 is such a horn. Hand-crafted by master-craftsmen Dieter Otto and Martin Ecker, the 166 represents high-performance in a more affordable price class. Who thought you could acquire this level of quality for under 5K? The 166 is the perfect German instrument for those looking to play a custom, hand-made horn at a more affordable price point.

With separate Bb/F tuning, Meinelschmidt valves, hand-fitted slides, tubing, and bell, the core of this instrument gives a player much more horn to work with from the get go... not to mention the future.

That being said, many players tell me they wish to customize their current factory made instrument because they are unhappy with it’s performance. When you look at the big picture, though, the cost of their instrument plus the custom changes is close to what you can have right away with the 166! But hold on, there is a big difference, the core of your factory horn isn’t hand-made. Not to mention Meinelschmidt has been in business for around what, 200 years! I don’t know about you, but my money is on experience and quality.

Whether you are a student in high-school, college, a teacher, amateur, or pro, this horn’s attributes are attractive, to say the least. If you haven’t thought of playing a Dieter Otto horn before, why not try one out?

We stock the 166 double horn in polished yellow brass with a detachable bell. Dieter Otto Horns also offer the 166 in gold brass, nickel-silver, and with a fixed bell. Other options might include: lacquer, adjustable finger hook, flipper, and a hand-hammered bell flare with a nickel-silver engraved kranz.

For pics, videos, and more information on Dieter Otto Horns, click here .

Get Fearless with Jeff Nelsen

Wed, 25 Apr 2007 13:41:21 -0400

August 2-7, 2007, Jeff Nelsen is hosting a unique, innovative workshop for horn players at the Jacobs School of Music. (Indiana University)

Jeff Nelsen has been a friend of ours for a number of years, and we are happy to announce this seminar for him. This six day seminar allows participants to learn ‘fearless tools’ for successful performances in critical situations. Training will take place in the environment that holds the most potential for a fearful experience - an audition!

For more information, please contact:
Jessica Thoman , or Emily Wong , for repertoire.
For questions about fee payment, account balance, off-campus housing, registration, parking decals, etc., please contact Helena Walsh.

Note that the registration deadline is June 1, 2007.

Best wishes to Jeff, and all of the participants at this seminar!!

-Scott & Andrea Bacon

Northwest Regional Horn Symposium

Tue, 24 Apr 2007 17:24:05 -0400

The biannual International Horn Society Northwest Regional Horn Symposium will be held at the Boise State University May 18-20th, 2007. The symposium will consist of clinics, recitals, master classes, and exhibits.
Featured artists include William Purvis, who is currently on the faculties of the Yale School of Music, Julliard School, the SUNY Stony Brook, and Columbia University. He is also hornist with the New York Woodwind Quintet, the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, Speculum Musicae, The Orchestra of St. Luke’s and Mozzafiato. Also appearing is Mark Robbins, principal horn of the Seattle Opera. Artists from colleges, universities and orchestras from the seven Northwestern states will also be representing this regional Symposium.
For more information, please contact:
Dr. David Saunders
Professor of Horn
Department of Music
Boise State University
email: dsaunder@boisestate.edu

Siegfried’s Call will proudly exhibit horns at this event. We will be exhibiting double horns from; Dieter Otto, DürkHorns, Lewis & Dürk, and Cornford. Please contact us for more information.

Improvisation Workshop June 1-3, 2007

Thu, 5 Apr 2007 16:15:52 -0400

IMPROVISATION WORKSHOP
FOR HORN PLAYERS
2007
Friday, June 1st - Sunday, June 3rd
Conservatory of Music
Purchase College, SUNY
Purchase, New York
Goal of Workshop:
The goal of the workshop is to “de-mystify” the process of improvisation for hornists, and provide the opportunity to learn to create one’s own music with the instrument (something that has been neglected in music education and in other horn workshops). No previous improvisation experience is necessary – just a spirit of fun and adventure.

Workshop Leaders:

John Clark (horn, composer)
Drawing on his distinguished career as a jazz hornist, John will present the fundamentals of jazz improvisation and emphasize blues, rhythm changes, bebop, etc. Instruction in the use of play-along aids such as Band-in-a-Box may also be included.

Jeffrey Agrell (horn) and
Evan Mazunik (piano)
Jeff and Evan have worked together for seven years, giving concerts and workshops in improvisation for classical musicians and making contemporary improvisation recordings. This workshop will feature Soundpainting, soloing and accompaniment, use of extended techniques, use of improvisation in daily technique, working in duet formation, creating improvised compositions, and more.

Workshop Description:
The workshop will begin with private study to identify interests and abilities, and then proceed to masterclass and workshop sessions. Ensembles will be organized so that all participants may play and apply the concepts they have just learned. An evening concert involving faculty and students will be presented Saturday, June 2nd. Sunday, June 3rd will be devoted to masterclasses, with a farewell concert involving all participants scheduled for the afternoon.

Workshop Tuition:
$150 (Enrollment is limited. Download your application form here: IWHP flyer.pdf)

Workshop Accommodations:
Meals and lodging are up to the participant to arrange. A list of local options will be provided.

Workshop Schedule:
Friday, June 1st
6:00 PM
Arrival and check-in
Informal concert by Faculty

Saturday, June 2nd
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Private Study with JC or JA
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Masterclasses with JC or JA
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Ensembles led by JC or JA
8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Concert: Participants + Faculty

Sunday, June 3rd
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Masterclasses with JC or JA
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Ensembles with JC or JA
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Concert: Participants + Faculty

for more information please contact:
John Clark:
john@hmmusic.com

Jeff Agrell:
jeffrey-agrell@uiowa.edu