Cowhorn

The cow horn (also called cow horn or swedish vallhorn) is one of the oldest Nordic wind instruments.
Made from natural cattle horn, it has a warm, carrying tone rich in overtones. Every horn body is unique in shape, colour, and sound - a living natural material that makes each instrument special.

Characteristics of the cowhorn

Trumpet-blown cow horn of the Swedish type (hunting horntypically with 3–5 finger holes and a fundamental tone between G and C.
Colours can vary from black to light yellow - and everything in between.
Larger horns are generally easier to play, with a stable response and good projection.

If you have specific preferences—such as desired fundamental, left-/right-handed hole placement, or aesthetic choices - add them as a comment when ordering. I can’t guarantee every request, since the horns follow their natural constraints, but I’ll do my best to meet them.

From herding horn to folk instrument

The cow horn is among the oldest Nordic wind instruments, with finds in Sweden dated as early as the 6th century.
In Swedish fäbod (summer pasture) culture, it served as an important signal and calling instrument, often used by dairymaids during the summer grazing season.
Women were therefore often the leading practitioners, through daily use while tending the livestock.

Craftsmanship

Each cow horn is made by hand in the workshop, with respect for the material and the tradition.
I combine proven methods with my own experience to deliver a playable instrument that is also a piece of cultural heritage.
The surface and the rim of the mouthpiece are adjusted to the horn body for the best possible tone, comfort, and durability.

Care

Wipe down after playing and store in a dry place. Avoid large temperature swings.
A bag/case is recommended for safe transport.

Hear the cowhorn in action: