When should I use the B♭ side vs the F side?

Use the B♭ side for easier response and clarity in the mid/high register; use the F side for warmth, stability, low range, and stopped passages. Choose based on intonation and musical context.

How do stopped horn fingerings work?

Fully closing the right hand in the bell raises pitch roughly a semitone and changes timbre. Use dedicated stopped ("+") fingerings—often F‑side alternates—and check with a tuner for accuracy.

What are common intonation tendencies on horn?

Low F‑side notes can sag flat; mid‑register B♭‑side combinations (1+2, 1+3) may run sharp. Balance with slide adjustments, side choice, and air support.

How does horn transposition affect reading?

Horn in F transposes down a perfect fifth (written C sounds F). Most parts are in treble clef at transposed pitch—remember this when matching to concert‑pitch resources.

Which beginner models are reliable?

Dependable options include Yamaha YHR‑322/567, Holton H379, Conn 6D/8D (used), Jupiter JHR1100, and Eastman EFH‑682. Prioritize valve condition, compression, and comfortable ergonomics.

French Horn Fingering Chart

Clear fingering overview + horn‑specific fundamentals + practice roadmap

Interactive French Horn Fingering Chart

On this page

French Horn Fingering Overview Mechanics: Valves, Thumb, Harmonics Transposition & Notation Alternate & Stopped Fingerings Range & Registers How to Hold the Horn Learning Plan Practice Tips & Issues Beginner Models

🟡 How to Use This Interactive Chart (French Horn)

Step 1: Choose Key Signature and Side

Select a key signature, then choose the B♭ or F side. The B♭ side responds more easily in the middle register; the F side offers a warmer tone and greater stability in the low register.

Step 2: Click a Note

Click a note below to display the corresponding valve combination. The horn diagram will highlight the required valves and the thumb trigger.

Step 3: Match the Partial

The same fingering maps to multiple partials. Use steady air and consistent articulation to center the intended pitch—avoid forcing the upper harmonics.

Key Signature:

Current Key: C Major

Side:

Current Note: Select a note

Click a note below to view fingering

Musical Notation

Select a note to display

Select a Note

French Horn Overview

The modern double horn switches between two tubing lengths (F and B♭) using a thumb trigger plus three rotary valves operated by the right hand. Pitch changes come from a combination of valve choices, air speed, embouchure, and the harmonic series. The left hand supports the instrument while the right hand shapes the tone inside the bell.

How to Use This Chart

Start on the B♭ side (thumb trigger engaged) for easier response in the mid‑range.
Match each valve combination to its harmonic levels slowly; do not force high partials.
Use a tuner and drone to center pitch while you memorize patterns.

French Horn Fingering Chart (At‑a‑Glance,PRINTABLE)

Schematic overview of B♭/F sides, valve combinations, and common harmonic levels

Need a printable reference? Download our French Horn Fingering Chart PDF for offline practice and reference.

BEGINNER FRENCH HORN FINGERING CHART

(Double Horn | B♭/F Sides | 3 Valves + Thumb Trigger)

1. Basic Valve Combinations

Note (Written)	Side	Valve Combination	Description
C4	B♭	0 (Open)	No valves, thumb engaged
C4	F	0 (Open)	No valves, thumb released
D4	B♭	1+2	First and second valves
E4	B♭	2	Second valve only
F4	B♭	0 (Open)	No valves, thumb engaged
G4	B♭	1	First valve only
A4	B♭	1+2	First and second valves
B4	B♭	2	Second valve only
C5	B♭	0 (Open)	No valves, thumb engaged (octave)

Tip: The same fingering can produce different notes by changing embouchure and air speed. B♭ side is easier for beginners in the middle register!

2. Essential Beginner Scales

Practice these scales to build valve coordination, embouchure control, and side switching.

F Major Scale (B♭ Side)

F4 (0) - G4 (1) - A4 (1+2) - Bb4 (2) - C5 (0) - D5 (1+2) - E5 (2) - F5 (0)

Bb Major Scale (B♭ Side)

Bb3 (2) - C4 (0) - D4 (1+2) - Eb4 (1+3) - F4 (0) - G4 (1) - A4 (1+2) - Bb4 (2)

C Major Scale (B♭ Side)

C4 (0) - D4 (1+2) - E4 (2) - F4 (0) - G4 (1) - A4 (1+2) - B4 (2) - C5 (0)

3. Simple Practice Melodies

(Great for applying new valve combinations!)

"Hot Cross Buns":

B4 (2) - A4 (1+2) - G4 (1)
B4 (2) - A4 (1+2) - G4 (1)
G4 (1) - G4 (1) - G4 (1) - G4 (1)
A4 (1+2) - A4 (1+2) - A4 (1+2) - A4 (1+2)
B4 (2) - A4 (1+2) - G4 (1)

"Mary Had a Little Lamb":

E4 (2) - D4 (1+2) - C4 (0) - D4 (1+2) - E4 (2) - E4 (2) - E4 (2)
D4 (1+2) - D4 (1+2) - D4 (1+2)
E4 (2) - G4 (1) - G4 (1)

"Ode to Joy":

E4 (2) - E4 (2) - F4 (0) - G4 (1)
G4 (1) - F4 (0) - E4 (2) - D4 (1+2)
C4 (0) - C4 (0) - D4 (1+2) - E4 (2)

4. French Horn Fingering Tips for Beginners

Start with the B♭ side (thumb engaged) - it's easier to produce a clear sound in the middle register.
Maintain a relaxed embouchure (lip position) for clear tone - avoid excessive mouthpiece pressure.
Use consistent air support from your diaphragm - steady air is crucial for horn playing.
Press valves quickly and completely, but without excessive force - keep fingers curved and close to valves.
Practice finding each valve combination accurately - use a tuner to check intonation.
Learn to coordinate thumb trigger with valve combinations for smooth side switching.
Keep your right hand relaxed in the bell - it shapes tone and helps with intonation.
Practice long tones on each valve combination to develop a steady sound.
Use a mirror to check your posture, hand position, and embouchure.
Don't grip the instrument too tightly - tension harms tone and endurance.
Practice lip slurs (changing partials on the same fingering) to develop embouchure flexibility.
Learn when to use F side vs B♭ side - F side offers warmth in low register, B♭ side is brighter in mid/high.
Listen to professional French horn players for inspiration and sound concept.
Clean and oil your valves regularly for smooth action.
Be patient - mastering valve combinations, side switching, and embouchure takes time.
Practice with a metronome to develop consistent timing.
Work on clean articulation - use a light "tu/du" tongue placement.
Balance air speed and embouchure to center the intended partial - avoid forcing high notes.