The hottest new trend is something from our trumpet past. Rotary valves are making a strong comeback. For that reason I searched for the most interesting description of this option which many trumpet players are switching to- rotary valve trumpets. I found this video very interesting and well done, “so…
These posts are written by: Bruce Chidester
Practicing In Front of a Computer Screen
More trumpet players are beginning to read their music off computer screens and this new trend has advantages as well as disadvantages as we will address. More players are beginning to take advantage of on line lessons through Skype as well as other programs and many times their material is…
What is the Best Trumpet Case? Part 4
Listed prices changing constantly! Single Soft Side Cases Now we have come to what I feel is the best compromise among all of the cases mentioned. The soft sided trumpet cases have advanced to the point that the protection is acceptable and the issue of excessive weight has also been…
What is the Best Trumpet Case? Part 3
Gig Bags The basic design of trumpet gig bag has not changed much in the past twenty years. The basic design was originated to serve the convenience of the player. There is not too much protection for the trumpet when transported but the ease of carrying more than makes up…
What is the Best Trumpet Case? Part 2
Traditional Hard Cases Almost every professional trumpet came packaged in a traditional hard case and most often these were made with wood panels covered with a leather or leather like material. These are considered very strong and protect the instrument from most abusive encounters. Some are designed with extra room…
How To Pick the Best Case for Your Trumpet
Part 1 What are the different kinds of trumpet cases? Most trumpets are purchased with accompanying cases and to the average person, this is adequate. Your instrument is expensive and deserves the best protection possible. But is the case that came with your instrument up to the task? If you…
The Need to Play in an Ensemble
For most of us, the need to play in an ensemble is obvious. During our musical development, we all participated in ensembles, sometimes voluntarily and sometimes because of departmental requirements. Whether in a marching band, a jazz ensemble or a brass quintet, we all had experiences in this area. To…
Trumpet Falls and Doits Made Easy
Recently, we have been seeing more and more questions about falls and doits. More specifically, how are they played? Playing doits (ascending effect) and falls (descending effect) are very easy and I will demonstrate an easy way to get the most out of your fall and doit. The secret to…
Trumpet – Brass or Silver Finish?
Should I get a silver or brass finish on my trumpet? This decision is not the same as deciding on a color for your new car. Color and finish are two different issues when deciding on the surface of your new trumpet. Many people decide on the silver because it…
Revisiting VALVE SLIDE CONVERSION RINGS- THE SOLUTION TO LOW D & C# INTONATION ADJUSTMENTS
I have continued to test and evaluate the merits of this approach to better intonation and have some additional information for my readers. I have been playing every day with the ring inserts and have become convinced that the rings help intonation problems and I’m still fine tuning the lengths…