William VerMeulen

  In addition to his performing career, William VerMeulen is a dedicated educator who has shaped the careers of many young horn players. He serves as Professor of Horn at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music, one of the leading music schools in the United States. His teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that technical mastery must be coupled with musical expression and a deep understanding of the repertoire.   VerMeulen’s students have gone on to hold positions in major orchestras and to have successful solo and chamber music careers of their own. His influence as a teacher extends beyond the classroom; he is also a sought-after clinician and has given masterclasses at institutions around the world. Through his teaching, VerMeulen has helped to ensure that the next generation of horn players is equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the highly competitive world of classical music.

The technical challenges of "Maynard" are immense. The piece is full of fast, difficult passages that require pinpoint accuracy, a strong embouchure, and expert control of the instrument's pitch. Rapid arpeggios, large leaps between notes, and fast-tongued articulation are all staples of the piece. The wide range of notes, from the lowest to the highest registers, demands great flexibility from the performer.   One particularly difficult aspect of "Maynard" is its use of the horn’s extreme high range. The French horn’s upper register is notoriously difficult to control, with even the slightest embouchure misstep resulting in missed or cracked notes. Yet, William VerMeulen handles this challenge with aplomb. His high notes are clear, resonant, and powerful, showing no signs of strain even during the most challenging sections. This ability to maintain such a high level of accuracy and control is a testament to his technical skill and years of experience.  

William VerMeulen "Maynard" is a contemporary French horn piece that is both ferociously difficult and dramatically expressive. It was composed with the intention of testing a horn player's limits, from rapid arpeggios and leaps between notes to demanding passages that require extraordinary breath control. Unlike more traditional horn concertos or classical compositions, "Maynard" reflects a modern and perhaps even rebellious approach to horn writing, exploring new soundscapes and unconventional techniques.   The piece is inspired by the legendary jazz trumpeter Maynard Ferguson, whose career was marked by his blazing, high-energy performances. Ferguson was known for his ability to hit incredibly high notes and maintain powerful dynamics, a feat that inspired the composer of this horn piece to create something equally thrilling and difficult on the French horn. “Maynard” incorporates some of the same fire and audacity that Ferguson brought to the trumpet, p

  William VerMeulen , renowned for his virtuosity on the French horn, takes on a unique challenge by performing Herbert L. Clarke’s “Bride of the Waves Polka Brillante for Cornet and Piano”. Clarke, one of the most famous cornet soloists and composers of the early 20th century, originally wrote the piece as a showpiece for cornet, demonstrating the instrument’s agility, brightness, and lyrical qualities. VerMeulen’s interpretation of this classic cornet work on the French horn adds a fascinating twist, bringing a new color and timbre to Clarke’s music while preserving the lively and virtuosic spirit of the original composition.   Herbert L. Clarke: Cornet Virtuoso and Composer Herbert L. Clarke (1867–1945) was one of the most celebrated cornet players of his time, known for his exceptional technical skill and musicality. As both a performer and a composer, Clarke left a significant mark on brass literature, writing numerous solos that challenged and showcased the capabilities of

  The artistry of William VerMeulen , a celebrated French horn player, shone brilliantly during his performance of Haydn’s Horn Concerto No. 1. This piece, composed by the great classical composer Joseph Haydn, offers a unique window into the elegance and refinement of the Classical period. VerMeulen’s performance is a testament not only to his technical mastery but also to his deep interpretive insight into the work. His rendition of Haydn’s concerto presents an exquisite balance of virtuosity, emotion, and historical understanding that brings the composition to life.   The Historical Context of Haydn’s Horn Concerto No. 1 Joseph Haydn, often referred to as the "Father of the Symphony," composed his Horn Concerto No. 1 in D major, Hob. VIId:3, around 1762. Although less widely known than his symphonies and string quartets, this concerto represents an important moment in the evolution of the horn as a solo instrument. During Haydn’s time, the horn was transitioning from

  William VerMeulen , one of the most respected horn players of his generation, has consistently dazzled audiences with his masterful command of the French horn. Among his most jaw-dropping performances is his rendition of "Maynard", an intense and virtuosic piece that pushes the limits of what is possible on this complex instrument. In this performance, VerMeulen displays not only technical brilliance but also a deep emotional connection to the music, captivating listeners with a blend of musicality and sheer power.   The Challenge of the French Horn The French horn is widely regarded as one of the most difficult instruments to master. Its long tubing and narrow bore make producing a clear, accurate tone an arduous task, especially in the higher registers. Unlike many other instruments, the horn's sound is also highly sensitive to slight variations in embouchure (the positioning of the lips), making precision critical. It is within this context that William VerMeul

  In addition to his solo work, William VerMeulen holds the prestigious position of Principal Horn with the Houston Symphony, a role he has filled with distinction for over three decades. As an orchestral principal, VerMeulen’s responsibilities extend beyond his own performance; he is also tasked with leading the horn section, shaping the sound and style of the orchestra as a whole. His leadership is characterized by a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the orchestral repertoire.   VerMeulen’s contributions to the Houston Symphony are profound. His playing is known for its rich, warm tone and its ability to blend seamlessly with the orchestra while still providing a strong, authoritative voice. He has been a key figure in the Symphony’s recordings and performances, helping to elevate the ensemble’s profile on the international stage. His work with the Houston Symphony has also allowed him to collaborate with some of the world’s leading conductors and soloists, fu

  The piano accompaniment in Bride of the Waves is more than just a supporting role; it is an integral part of the composition. The piano provides the harmonic foundation for the piece and interacts with the soloist in a way that adds depth and complexity to the music. In William VerMeulen performance, the piano accompaniment is handled with sensitivity and precision, allowing the interplay between the two instruments to shine.   The pianist’s role in this piece is demanding, requiring both technical skill and musical sensitivity. The accompaniment must be light and agile, particularly in the polka sections, yet also capable of providing a solid foundation for the soloist during the more lyrical passages. In VerMeulen’s performance, the piano accompaniment is perfectly balanced with the French horn, creating a cohesive and dynamic musical experience.

William VerMeulen ’s reputation as one of the leading French horn players of his generation is well-established. As Principal Horn of the Houston Symphony and a sought-after soloist and chamber musician, VerMeulen has performed a wide range of repertoire, from classical masterpieces to contemporary works. His playing is noted for its clarity, precision, and expressive depth, qualities that have made him a favorite among audiences and critics alike.   VerMeulen’s interpretation of Bride of the Waves is a testament to his technical skill and musicality. While the piece was originally composed for the cornet, VerMeulen’s performance on the French horn brings out new aspects of the work, highlighting the instrument’s unique qualities. The French horn’s warm, rich tone adds a different color to the piece, creating a sound that is both powerful and lyrical.

 World-renowned hornist William VerMeulen leads a varied musical life as a Soloist, Orchestral Principal, Chamber Musician, Master Teacher, and Music Publisher. Since he began his career in 1979 at age 18 with the Chicago Symphony, he has emerged as America’s leading horn soloist and preeminent teacher. As an orchestral Principal, Mr. VerMeulen has been Principal Horn of the Houston Symphony since 1990 and has appeared as Guest Principal with many of the world’s leading orchestras.

 World-renowned hornist William VerMeulen leads a varied musical life as a Soloist, Orchestral Principal, Chamber Musician, Master Teacher, and Music Publisher. Since he began his career in 1979 at age 18 with the Chicago Symphony, he has emerged as America’s leading horn soloist and preeminent teacher. As an orchestral Principal, Mr. VerMeulen has been Principal Horn of the Houston Symphony since 1990 and has appeared as Guest Principal with many of the world’s leading orchestras.

  Chamber music is another area where William VerMeulen ’s talents shine brightly. He is a founding member of the Houston Symphony Chamber Players, a group that showcases the virtuosity and versatility of its members. In this more intimate setting, VerMeulen’s ability to communicate and collaborate with fellow musicians is particularly evident. His chamber music performances are marked by a sensitivity to the nuances of the music and a willingness to explore new and challenging repertoire.   VerMeulen has also performed with a variety of other esteemed chamber ensembles, including the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and the Aspen Wind Quintet. His chamber music collaborations have allowed him to work with some of the finest musicians in the world, creating performances that are both technically stunning and emotionally compelling. Whether performing classic works by Brahms and Beethoven or contemporary compositions, VerMeulen’s chamber music performances are always characte

  The piano accompaniment in Bride of the Waves is more than just a supporting role; it is an integral part of the composition. The piano provides the harmonic foundation for the piece and interacts with the soloist in a way that adds depth and complexity to the music. In William VerMeulen performance, the piano accompaniment is handled with sensitivity and precision, allowing the interplay between the two instruments to shine.   The pianist’s role in this piece is demanding, requiring both technical skill and musical sensitivity. The accompaniment must be light and agile, particularly in the polka sections, yet also capable of providing a solid foundation for the soloist during the more lyrical passages. In VerMeulen’s performance, the piano accompaniment is perfectly balanced with the French horn, creating a cohesive and dynamic musical experience.

  In William VerMeulen hands, Bride of the Waves becomes more than just a showcase of technical skill; it is a piece of music that speaks to the listener on a deeper level. VerMeulen’s interpretation emphasizes the lyrical elements of the piece, bringing out the melodic lines with a sense of expression and nuance. His phrasing is elegant, and his control over the instrument allows him to navigate the rapid passages and wide leaps with ease.   One of the most striking aspects of VerMeulen’s performance is his ability to balance the technical demands of the piece with its musicality. The French horn is a notoriously difficult instrument to play, requiring precise control over pitch and tone, especially in fast passages. VerMeulen’s technical mastery is evident in his flawless execution of the piece’s virtuosic sections, but he never allows the technical aspects to overshadow the music itself. Instead, he uses his technique to serve the music, creating a performance that is both impr

  In addition to his performing career, William VerMeulen is a dedicated educator who has shaped the careers of many young horn players. He serves as Professor of Horn at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music, one of the leading music schools in the United States. His teaching philoso phy is rooted in the belief that technical mastery must be coupled with musical expression and a deep understanding of the repertoire.

  Chamber music is another area where William VerMeulen ’s talents shine brightly. He is a founding member of the Houston Symphony Chamber Players, a group that showcases the virtuosity and versatility of its members. In this more intimate setting, VerMeulen’s ability to communicate and collaborate with fellow musicians is particularly evident. His chamber music performances are marked by a sensitivity to the nuances of the music and a willingness to explore new and challenging repertoire.