A Dissonant History: The French Horn as a Marker of Oppression and Freedom in the Lives of African American Musicians

A monograph submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree Doctor of Musical Arts

Temple University, May 2020

Dr. Ambrose’s doctoral research delves into the connection between American horn players of African and Creole descent, and the use of the horn as a symbol of oppression and freedom. This work includes a look at how the horn was utilized in the lives of enslaved persons, the role it played in the advent of the Black brass band tradition during and after the War of 1812, its use in minstrel bands and offshoots during the Postbellum period, and accounts of jazz horn players and racist audition practices of the early- to mid-20th century.

Dr. Ambrose is available for online presentations based on this research. To inquire, please use the Contact Form.