Although the singers and guitar players of the world typically get the most attention, the horn section is often the real soul of a musical group. A good sax solo or well-placed trombone can add a flare that is undeniable and there is more opportunity for horn players than most people realize.
Here is a look at a few of the most popular styles of music for industry horn players.
Jazz
Jazz bands are always in need of quality horn players. America’s first original art form was Jazz and has inspired countless genres to follow. From traditional jazz to jazz-rock to jazz fusion, there are so many types of music styles that have spawned from the genre. Horn players are the lifeblood of any good jazz band. Legends like Louis Armstrong, John Coltrane, and Charlie Park set the standard for how horn players could innovate within the genre. Even today, there are plenty of popular jazz bands out there that need quality horn players to tour and perform live.
Pop
Although pop music is always transforming, certain elements will never change. A smooth sax solo or well-orchestrated horn section can add a lot to a composition. Countless hit records feature horn sections from “Just the Two of Us” to “Uptown Funk.” Performing as a studio musician for pop acts can be a great gig for industry horn players. Or going on tour with a live band is another great opportunity to showcase your talent. Even though pop music is becoming increasingly driven by electronic instrumentation, good live musicians are increasingly necessary to achieve that timeless, nostalgic sound.
Blues
Many blues bands also need horn players to perform live or go on tour. Blues is another classic American art form that has stood the test of time. The musical style began in the deep south in the late 19th century and went on to influence the basic structures of American songwriting over the next decade. Many blues bands choose to bring a live horn section on tour because it creates a better live experience. Even if they opt for a more minimal approach when in the studio, a horn section can bring a show to life and give the band energy and charisma that is tough to ignore.
Rock
Many popular rock bands over the years have incorporated live horn sections into their usual repertoire of artists. Groups like Chicago, Earth, Wind and Fire, and the Ohio Players were well known for bringing a live horn section on tour by fusing rock and roll with other genres like jazz and soul. Many of these bands still perform live and need skilled musicians to accompany them. There are also a wide variety of tribute bands and newer groups who want to achieve that classic sound. Although many people don’t associate live brass with rock and roll, there are plenty of opportunities for skilled horn players to tour or perform live with rock bands.
Funk
Funk music is a genre that was created by blending many of the popular elements of soul, jazz, and R&B. Many funk bands make extensive use of horn sections in their lineup of musicians, especially those based in New Orleans, including the Rebirth Brass Band, Trombone Shorty, and Galactic. Funk seeks to combine some of the textures and sounds of jazz with the rhythm of blues and R&B and a good horn section is needed to create that sound.
No matter what style of music you ultimately decide to play, there is a variety of opportunities available for horn players. Quality bands across the world need skilled saxophonists, trombonists, trumpeters, French Horn players, and more. The horn instrument family has made essential contributions to a variety of different musical styles and no matter what instrument you play, there are plenty of opportunities to perform with live bands or studio musicians.
The Musicians Institute is proud to offer a comprehensive horn program led by a world-class staff of professional musicians, dedicated to teaching and preparing aspiring horn players to work in the field. If you are a dedicated musician in search of a program that will help you get on the right path toward performing and touring as a professional horn player, then this program is for you. Students of the class will learn how to play in any of the styles previously mentioned, preparing them for any opportunity that may present itself in the future.