Bassetthorn

As Printed on a Score

The German label for the basset horn, usually Bassetthorn in F (plural Bassetthörner), written in treble clef a perfect fifth above the sound. Mozart’s Italian scores call the same instrument Corno di bassetto; do not read it as a kind of horn.

Also spelled: Bassett horn, Basset horn, Cor de basset, Cors de basset

How Composers Use It

Strauss restored the basset horn to the orchestra in Elektra and later operas, and wrote for it in his two late wind sonatinas, valuing its warm, veiled alto between clarinets and bassoons. Its extended low range, to written C3 (sounding F2), is its particular asset. Treat it as a blending voice rather than a soloist that has to carry, and check that players are available.

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