Physics of a horn submerged in Oreos


Francis Markey wants advice on physics.

Perhaps Professor Cabbage can enlighten us as to what happens when you submerge your horn in a batch full of Oreos.

It's interesting that he should raise this point, since I was the physics advisor on a horn-design project led by Tepido Shplunkt. We built a long horn and fitted it inside a special vat which could be filled with Oreos. When the container was empty, the horn was quite easy to play, once we recruited players whose arms were long enough to reach the bell. But when the container was filled with Oreos, one of the players reported he had to really "bust his buns" to get a decent sound out of it.

I'm not sure I can explain the physics involved, particularly since several other players experienced no trouble at all. I think, however, that the difficulty is primarily a matter of technique. Most players prefer to use their lips when playing a horn. (See, for example, the Farkas method.) In my experience, the buns are less effective for sounding the instrument, even if you are a skilled stunt-hornist.

In any event, this had nothing to do with the Oreos, which are cookies, not buns.

By the way, this is an excellent way to prepare to play a piece by George Crumb.

Gotta go,

Prof. Cabbage

Submerged horn



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