Trumpet

Quick History

The first variations of trumpets were invented in the Middle Ages (A.D. 1095-1270). They started out as straight tubes, sometimes bent to make them shorter, that were called Natural Trumpets. They went through many variations until the invention of the valve in 1832. Francois Perinet improved on the tubular valve in order to invent the trumpets used today. These valves are the reason instruments are able to be fully chromatic. Typically, trumpets are pitched in Bb and are considered a "transposing" instrument.

Trumpets are the highest pitched instruments and are highly versatile instruments that are used in a variety of ensembles such as Concert Bands, Marching Bands, Jazz Band, Orchestras, and many more.

For a more in depth history, go here.

How to play

Trumpet is played by buzzing your lips together in the mouthpiece. When blowing air, be careful not to puff out your cheeks! This will help keep the sound and tuning be more consistent. The right hand goes on top, with the index finger, middle finger, and ring finger being used to press down on the valves. The left hand holds onto the valve casing for support with the left ring/pinkie finger used to kick out the 3rd tuning slide when needed. Make sure instrument is secure on your lips, but not pressed in so hard that it may cause an injury!

More here.

Famous Players

Wynton Marsalis

Wynton was born in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1961. From a early age he was very interested in Music, specifically trumpet. He showed a great aptitude for music and joined his local church band at the age of eight.

He was the Youngest person admitted to Tanglewood's Berkshire Music Center at 17 and went on to attend Juilliard in 1979. He is a very famous figure both in the Classical and Jazz trumpet worlds.

Recommended/ Popular Method Books

Page updated

Report abuse