Trumpet
Quick Facts
The trumpet was first used in the military to rhythmically sound signals to the troops. But it was not until Claudio Monteverdi’s opera “Orfeo” in 1607 that the trumpet was used in an orchestral setting.
Through much of the Renaissance and Baroque periods, a lot of time was spent experimenting - both in the playing styles of the trumpet as well as the instrument making aspect.
Through new innovation and technology, the valves were invented in 1815. These valves made it possible to play chromatically without having to lip the notes or having to hand-stop the bell of the trumpet. Today, the trumpet is one of the world’s most popular instruments and is used in a variety of musical settings. Along with the Bb trumpet, there are trumpets in C, D, E, Eb, Piccolo trumpets in Bb, Comets in Bb, and Flugelhorns in Bb.
Cornets
The cornet is similar in range to the trumpet but has a greater proportion of conical-bore tubing. This increases breath resistance, which provides greater flexibility with a generally softer, mellower tone. Wide ranges of musical styles are associated with the cornet - from American cornet soloists and British band players to the French orchestra parts such as those by Berlioz.
There are four main components of the trumpet that influence the sound and playability of the trumpet. They are: the bell, leadpipe, bore size and the valves.There are different levels of Trumpets?
As with most instruments, there are three basic levels: beginner, intermediate, and performer. The beginner instruments are made to be easy to play and very durable to accomodate the player while he or she is learning to play and properly care for the instrument. The materials are less expensive to produce and will hold up better under the circumstances.
The next step up is the intermediate trumpet. One of the most noticable differences between the intermediate and the beginner instrument is the finish. Beginner trumpets usually have a lacquer finish (gold colored) which is more durable and easy to clean. Intermediate trumpets usually have a silver-plated finish which gives the horn a better overall tone but is a little harder to clean than lacquer. Another difference is the bore size. This means that intermediate instruments require more air to play but will give the player a much fuller, richer tone.
The third level is the performer trumpet. Performer trumpets are also silver-plated and have a larger bore size than beginners. Performer trumpets feature hand-hammered one piece bells which give the player exceptional tone and better response. In addition, performer trumpets feature double tuning slide braces which also improves response and gives a darker tone. In some cases, perfomer trumpets contain thicker brass and materials. This added mass produces a darker tone that will not break up with volume.
What's the difference between Trumpets?
Trumpets can look very similar even to regular players. However, there are some very important differences between certain types and brands of clarinets.
Intonation is one of the key differences. Many brands of trumpets are not made to be played in bands or with other instruments - they do not play in tune with other instruments. An instrument that won't be played with other instruments is less expensive to manufacture, but when it is used in a band it creates frustration to the player, the director, and other band members. If the instrument is going to be used in a school band, please make sure the band director is familar and reccomends the brand of trumpet that you have found.
