Lindsay Stoker (RNCM) reviews new JP161 & JP162 French Horns
Lindsey Stoker is Senior Horn Tutor and Co-ordinator for Young Horns at the RNCM, has played principal horn with BBC Philharmonic, RLPO, BBC Concert orchestra, Manchester Camerata, Northern Chamber Orchestra,RTE and Birmingham Royal Ballet and has also worked with Opera North, CBSO, BBC NOW, and Scottish Opera.
"Having been impressed with the original JP161 and JP162 I was keen to try out the new versions which have had a total redesign. They did not disappoint… the build feels even more solid, valves are good and not prone to stick if not used (a problem with many beginner instruments). The newly designed ducks foot and adjustable finger hook are a much better design, making it easy to find a comfortable hand position to suit any size hand. They also stay fixed on the instrument rather than having to be removed to fit in the case.
"The instruments themselves blow very freely with a clear resonant sound. They are capable of producing a lovely even sound across the range. The high and low registers are both much improved on this new model.
"If you thought the original instruments were good these are even better and for such an incredible price! They even come with a respectable lightweight backpack-style case which has reflector strips on it.
Either the JP161/JP162 would make an excellent choice for any beginner."
Lindsey Stoker is Senior Horn Tutor and Co-ordinator for Young Horns at the RNCM, has played principal horn with BBC Philharmonic, RLPO, BBC Concert orchestra, Manchester Camerata, Northern Chamber Orchestra,RTE and Birmingham Royal Ballet and has also worked with Opera North, CBSO, BBC NOW, and Scottish Opera. She is also a member of Zephyr with whom she plays chamber music concerts. Lindsey is passionate about promoting the Horn and has lead workshops and the RNCM Young Horns which encourages local young hornplayers.