Competition Solos, Book 1 Horn: Horn in F Book

This collection spans pastoral warmth (Harvest Waltz), playful narrative (The Tortoise and the Hare), folk vitality (Cripple Creek), and lyrical introspection (Swan). You move between character sketches that keep your ear engaged and your musical instincts sharp without overwhelming technical demands.

Horn players preparing for solo competition at the middle school level or early in high school who need a ready-made collection of state-approved repertoire. Teachers and private instructors building a solo library can reach for this book knowing the pieces are already vetted by competition boards across the country.

• Study the character of each piece before diving into technical details. Rooster and Dance of the Bears demand rhythmic clarity and personality, while Swan calls for sustained, singing tone work that benefits from slow practice.
• Confirm your solo selection with your director or state music association before committing heavy practice time. State lists shift annually, and you need assurance your choice will be approved for your competition.
• Use the included audio download codes to hear how each solo is meant to sit with its accompaniment. Hearing the piano part will clarify phrasing and help you lock in musically, not just rhythmically.

Use these solos as your competition preparation repertoire, checking state lists as your season approaches to confirm selections. Teachers can also pull individual pieces into student recitals or ensemble concerts to showcase emerging soloists without waiting for competition season.

• Performing with piano accompaniment in a solo context
• Reading varied musical styles and character pieces
• Sustaining lyrical, singing tone (particularly in Swan and Gavotte)
• Rhythmic clarity and interpretation of folk and dance-based material