First, the “Why”, because that’s the point I really want to make. In a word: CLARITY.
It seems to me there are many ways of explaining this. An example is perhaps best: Play a bebop tune as fast as you can, on the double horn. Then play the exact same thing on the F alto horn (descant or triple). Which do you think sounds clearer / more intelligible / listenable?
Another reason which is applicable to those who played trumpet before they played horn: It feels familiar. You relate to the instrument in a similar way: range / register / fingerings; although in a different key.
There is some great information from John Ericson here: http://hornmatters.com/2012/10/playing-descant-and-triple-horns-a-new-e-book/
I’ve recently recorded an e-lesson for https://vimeo.com/hipbonemusic/vod which should be available around September or so.
I totally agree!
The F alto horn sounds clearer. More …. straight !?
I just recently got a problem while playing a small duo-gig with an acoustic guitar: The sound of my Alexander 503 (F/Bb double) seemed to “melt together” with the sound of the guitar. The two instruments sounded almost like one and it was hard to distinguish which instrument played which part! This had nothing to do with playing high or low. It was just because of the full and warm sound of the Horn – which we here in Europe (I’m from Austria) learn to play and love.
I’m sure, you don’t have problems like this with an F alto horn, and in situations like this with no microphones and no EQ, a F alto horn is an advantage.