The Trumpet is the most common horn used in marching bands. Trumpets are brass instruments that produce a bright, piercing sound. They are typically played in the key of Bb and have a range of about three octaves. Trumpets are used in a variety of musical genres, including classical, jazz, and rock. In marching bands, trumpets are typically used to play melodies and provide a strong rhythmic foundation.
Other horns used in marching bands include:
- Alto-Saxophone: Saxophones are woodwind instruments that produce a rich, warm sound. They are typically played in the key of Eb and have a range of about two and a half octaves. Saxophones are used in a variety of musical genres, including jazz, classical, and rock. In marching bands, saxophones are typically used to play melodies and provide a supporting harmonic role.
- Tenor-Saxophone: Tenor saxophones are larger and lower-pitched than alto saxophones. They are typically played in the key of Bb and have a range of about two octaves. Tenor saxophones are used in a variety of musical genres, including jazz, classical, and rock. In marching bands, tenor saxophones are typically used to play melodies and provide a strong foundation in the lower register.
- Trombone: Trombones are brass instruments that produce a rich, mellow sound. They are typically played in the key of Bb and have a range of about three octaves. Trombones are used in a variety of musical genres, including classical, jazz, and rock. In marching bands, trombones are typically used to play melodies and provide a strong, supportive role in the lower register.
- Baritone-Horn: Baritone horns are brass instruments that are similar to trumpets but have a lower pitch. They are typically played in the key of Bb and have a range of about two and a half octaves. Baritone horns are used in a variety of musical genres, including classical, jazz, and rock. In marching bands, baritone horns are typically used to play melodies and provide a strong foundation in the lower register.
- Sousaphone: Sousaphones are large brass instruments that are used in marching bands. They are typically played in the key of Bb and have a range of about three octaves. Sousaphones are known for their distinctive sound and are often used to provide a strong bass foundation in marching bands.