In a landmark event for Sri Lanka’s classical music community, renowned German horn virtuoso, Professor Peter Arnold, conducted a series of masterclasses and a recital in Colombo, leaving an indelible mark on both participants and audiences.
Masterclasses: A Deep Dive into Horn Techniques
Held on February 13th and 14th at Musicmatters Sri Lanka, the masterclasses attracted horn players eager to refine their craft under Professor Arnold’s expert guidance. Demonstrating his commitment to nurturing talent, Professor Arnold generously gifted each attendee a Markus Arnold ‘BuzzeR’, a specialized tool designed to practice buzzing even without the instrument.
The sessions delved into often-overlooked aspects of horn playing in Sri Lanka:
- Breathing and Posture: Emphasizing the importance of correct breathing, Professor Arnold introduced exercises aimed at rectifying common breathing habits. He also highlighted the role of posture and diaphragm engagement in producing a resonant tone.
- Buzzing Techniques: Participants were guided through buzzing exercises to improve embouchure strength and control, and foundational elements for horn performance.
- Natural Horn Exercises: Revisiting the roots of horn playing, the masterclasses incorporated fundamental natural horn exercises, offering players a historical perspective and technical proficiency.
- Solo Repertoire Interpretation: A significant portion of the sessions focused on solo horn repertoire. Professor Arnold shared his insightful interpretations, providing practical approaches to mastering these pieces.
Additionally, a five-member horn ensemble received specialized training, exploring diverse genres and ensemble dynamics under his direction.
Recital: A Celebration of Horn Music
The culmination of this immersive experience was a recital on the morning of February 15th, 2025, at Musicmatters Sri Lanka. The event commenced with two solo performances by Professor Arnold, whose masterful artistry captivated a discerning audience.
Following his solos, students showcased the fruits of their intensive training, performing pieces from the solo repertoire they had meticulously prepared. The recital also featured ensemble performances arranged by Professor Arnold, including:
- GlottertälerHornruf: An evocative piece that highlighted the ensemble’s cohesive sound.
- Caccini’s Ave Maria for Six Horns: A harmonious rendition that blended the rich tones of the horn sextet.
- Blues for Horns: A spirited and rhythmic piece that concluded the recital on a high note, resonating well with the audience.
A Lasting Impact
This event, organized by the Gustav Mahler Society of Colombo in collaboration with Musicmatters Sri Lanka, has set a new precedent for classical music engagement in the region. The support of esteemed partners, including International Distillers Limited as the Premier Event Partner, Hilton Colombo and Hilton Colombo Residencies as Official Hotel Sponsors, Newswire as the Official Media Partner, and iCreateforUStudios as the Official Audio Partner, was instrumental in bringing this initiative to fruition.
Professor Arnold’s visit not only elevated the technical capabilities of local horn players but also enriched Sri Lanka’s cultural tapestry, fostering a deeper appreciation for classical music within the community.