An assortment of news, websites, gear, and other items of interest from around the horn world.

Just Sayin’: A new (and free)  smartphone app which allows you to “post any combination of voice, text, photos and video to your Facebook and Twitter accounts.”  Definitely some possibilities here for musicians.

Horn Playing from the Inside Out: A new book by Eli Epstein, a former member of the Cleveland Orchestra. One of the most comprehensive books of its kind, Mr. Epstein shares his thoughts on horn playing, musicianship, and overall well-being. Available in print and e-book format. I’m planning to write a more extensive review of this publication soon.

Chopsaver: Recommended lip balm for horn players. Not a new product, but as this is marching band season and many students have been spending long hours outside punishing their lips, it’s worth mentioning. A bit pricey, but overall a very fine product.

Daniel Grabois’ Blog: Now in his second year as the horn teacher at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (taking over after Douglas Hill’s retirement), Dan Grabois always has something interesting on his blog. An active performer, writer, and composer, he seems to be doing quite well in his new position.

Upcoming Performances: I’m booked up with orchestral playing for the next few weekends. Here’s the rundown.

• September 22, Shreveport Symphony (3rd horn): Brahms, Academic Festival Overture, Bruch, Violin Concerto No. 1, Dvořák, Symphony No. 8
• September 29, Rapides Symphony (3rd horn): Outdoor pops concert, movie music, Broadway, etc.
• October 7, South Arkansas Symphony (2nd horn): Rachmaninoff, Piano Concerto No. 3, Mussorgsky/Ravel, Pictures at an Exibition