The “Horn Octets” by Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy, masterfully arranged by Andreas Simbeni, offer a fascinating new perspective on some of the composer’s most beautiful choral works. By adapting these pieces for an ensemble of eight horns, Simbeni creates a unique sound world that transfers Mendelssohn’s original vocal harmony into the depth and warmth of the horns.

This collection is characterized by careful arrangements that respect the complex harmonies and contrapuntal lines of the original compositions while making use of the horn’s many expressive possibilities. Each piece has been designed with the balance between the horns in mind to allow for both solo and ensemble-based passages that encourage interplay and musical communication within the octet.

The “Hornoktetten” are ideal for advanced horn players and ensembles looking for challenging chamber music. They offer a rich palette of musical forms of expression – from gentle lyricism to powerful, dramatic passages. Perfect for concerts, master classes and chamber music gatherings, these arrangements invite you to rediscover the beauty and depth of Mendelssohn’s music through the prism of the horn ensemble.