Over-the-Shoulder Soprano Horn in E-flat 1870 - 1890

This is an over-the-shoulder soprano horn in E-flat, made by John F. Stratton. The design of this horn speaks volumes about the cultural and social roles of music and performance. These horns were primarily used in marching bands during the mid-19th century, and designed so that the sound would project backward, towards the troops following behind the band. There's something inherently militaristic about its design. When you consider that the primary context for its use was likely during the Civil War era, we might consider the use of music as a tool for maintaining morale and shaping identity, even in times of conflict. It speaks to the complex ways in which music intersects with nationhood, solidarity, and even propaganda. Think about the sound it would have made and the effect it would have had on its listeners.