The French horn is a brass instrument known for its rich, warm tone. It consists of a long coiled tube and a flared bell, which helps produce its distinctive sound. Players use a combination of lip tension and fingerings on the valves to create different pitches. To play the French horn effectively, musicians must develop strong breath control and embouchure, which is the way they shape their lips. The instrument is commonly used in orchestras and bands, contributing to both melodic and harmonic textures in various musical genres.