1949 Conn 8D Double French Horn - Kaid Friedel Collection (SLSO)

Manufacturer: Conn

Model: 8D

Condition: Used, Very good

Year: 1949

Key: F/ Bb

Bore: .468" 

Bell Size/Material: 12 1/4" Nickel Silver

Finish: Raw Nickel Silver 

Case: No

Oil: Yamaha

This 1949 Conn 8D French horn was produced during what is widely regarded as the golden era of Conn’s Elkhart, Indiana manufacturing period. Introduced in 1939, the Conn 8D quickly became the defining orchestral horn in the United States, and by the late 1940s its design had fully matured. These early examples helped establish the broad, dark, and powerful tonal concept that came to define the American symphonic horn sound. Conn’s use of nickel silver construction, combined with its large bell throat and carefully engineered wrap, produced an instrument capable of tremendous projection, depth, and tonal complexity while maintaining exceptional stability and blend within an orchestral section. As a result, late 1940s Conn 8Ds remain among the most sought-after vintage orchestral horns by professionals and collectors alike.

This particular instrument carries distinguished professional provenance, having been owned and played by Kaid Friedel during his tenure with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra from 1968 to 1979. The horn is constructed of nickel silver, and the raw finish lets the material resonate freely while developing a natural patina. The fixed-bell configuration contributes to the focused core, stability and resonance.

We gave this horn a professional cleaning and precision rotor alignment, and it has been fitted with new rotors that currently hold approximately 85% compression. The action is responsive, and the horn produces the warmth, presence, and authority that made the Conn 8D the standard orchestral horn for generations. There is a well-executed protective patch on the bell beneath the pinky hook, which was added to stabilize a previously thinned area and ensure the long-term structural integrity of the instrument. There is some evidence of repairs to the bell flare, as well as some other very minor imperfections here and there that don't affect playability.

This horn represents a rare opportunity to acquire a historically significant Elkhart-era instrument with direct ties to a major American symphony musician and is an outstanding choice for professional players, collectors and serious enthusiasts.

ABOUT KAID FRIEDEL, SLSO 1968–1979
Kaid Friedel was a distinguished American orchestral hornist and longtime member of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. Born in Kansas, he began his horn studies there before relocating with his family to Nebraska, where he studied with Ward Fearn of the Philadelphia Orchestra. He later attended the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, continuing his studies under Fearn. Following four years of service with the United States Navy Band in Washington, D.C., Friedel was appointed Principal Horn of the Kansas City Philharmonic, where he served for eight years. He subsequently joined the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra as Associate First Horn, bringing extensive orchestral experience and refined artistry. This instrument represents part of his professional legacy during his years performing at the highest orchestral level.