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Trumpet - Buying tips & guidelines

if buying for a child, you then need to ascertain if they are physically big enough to cope with the weight of the instrument. Find out more by clicking on the tile below. Certainly starting at an early age on an Instrument pays dividends, but there is nothing worse than a child being put off from learning through struggling physically. In particular, for a small child, the Trumpet is quite “long” with the (not inconsiderable) weight of the Instrument held (entirely by the arms) quite a way from the body.
This is hard work, makes practicing tiring and can lead to bad posture and consequently poor technique that can in turn hinder progress – causing further reasons
​not to continue.

For many younger children (say 9 or below), the Cornet offers an easier physical introduction to Trumpet playing. The Instruments – from a technique and repertoire perspective are the same for a beginner, so if you can play one, you can play the other. The advantage of the Cornet from the perspective of a younger player is that it
is a more compact instrument – meaning it is held closer to the body – making the physical strains of holding the Instrument considerably easier. 

Another approach is consider a plastic instrument (trumpet or cornet). High quality plastic trumpets can produce a similar sound quality and pitch to traditional instruments but offer significant advantages for the student player over traditional instruments:

• Around half the weight (500g)
• Robust and “dent proof”
• Fun looking
• Sounds as good as a traditional Instrument
• Affordable – cheaper than a traditional instrument

The longer term choice between a trumpet and cornet is down to your own personal musical taste. If you like rousing orchestral works or a bit of Big Band then the trumpet will always be your best option, but if you prefer the distinctive sound of a good old traditional Brass Band then the cornet is the one for you. It is worth noting that it doesn’t have to be an either / or choice, many top players will be proficient on both, although generally they will have one that is their primary instrument.

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Things to consider when buying a Trumpet

Having concluded that the Trumpet is your chosen Instrument, and if it is for a child, then you need to ascertain if they are physically big enough to cope with the weight of the instrument.
 
Certainly, starting at an early age on an Instrument pays dividends, but there is nothing worse than a child being put off from learning through struggling physically. In particular, for a small child, the Trumpet is quite “long” with the (not inconsiderable) weight of the Instrument held (entirely by the arms) quite a way from the body. This is hard work, makes practicing tiring and can lead to bad posture and consequently poor technique that can in turn hinder progress – causing further reasons not to continue.
 
For many younger children (say 9 or below), the Cornet offers an easier physical introduction to Trumpet playing. The Instruments – from a technique and repertoire perspective are the same for a beginner, so if you can play one, you can play the other. The advantage of the Cornet from the perspective of a younger player is that it is a more compact instrument – meaning it is held closer to the body – making the physical strains of holding the Instrument considerably easier.
 
Another approach is consider a plastic instrument (trumpet or cornet). High quality plastic trumpets can produce a similar sound quality and pitch to traditional instruments but offer significant advantages for the student player over traditional instruments:
 

• Around half the weight (500g).
• Robust and “dent proof”.
• Fun looking.
• Sounds as good as a traditional Instrument.
• Affordable – cheaper than a traditional instrument.

The longer-term choice between a trumpet and cornet is down to your own personal musical taste. If you like rousing orchestral works or a bit of Big Band then the trumpet will always be your best option, but if you prefer the distinctive sound of a good old traditional Brass Band then the cornet is the one for you. It is worth noting that it doesn’t have to be an either / or choice, many top players will be proficient on both, although generally they will have one that is their primary instrument.

Selecting an instrument

The choice of which instrument to select especially if it is your first depends on different factors including : -

• The level of your commitment to play the instrument
• How much time you want to spend rehearsing playing the instrument
• How much money you wish to spend on the instrument
• The styles and genres you wish to play
• The instrument type that best suits you

 
How much you can spend on the quality of the instrument you get is wide ranging. You can get a simple good working used instrument that is fully sufficient for your purposes or a new expensive instrument that may not necessarily be fit for your purposes.
 
You should always seek help before you buy an instrument to know whether the quality of what you’re getting is worth the price. Soliciting the help of a Trumpet, teacher, a friend or someone who plays the instrument to go with you to test, feel, check the instrument before buying is always recommended. Where possible, it makes sense to check if you can lend a used instrument from the music school and buy later, lease or rent a new instrument from the music shop which can be bought later.

Do not rush the decision to get your instrument, take your time to ensure that you get the right thing. You can for example ask if you can take an instrument home for a day’s try out based on prior arrangement/agreement with the shop before making your decision.
​
If the dealer hasn't got the type of instrument you want, you should ask him to show you the ones they have that is within your budget range to try out. Off course be aware that the professional Trumpet will differ from the student's Trumpet both in terms of quality and cost. 
 
To ensure you are buying an instrument fit for purpose carefully check if anything broken, scratched or cracked on your selected instrument before you buy. You do this by checking if

1. All the tuning slides, valve pistons and valve slides have no problems on them
2. See if any screws on the instrument shake or are all firm
3. The mechanics of the instrument works smoothly 

Here are some quick Skwiix tips on how to select a Trumpet : -  

Tip 1

It’s always best to start off with a decent beginner trumpet from a reputable brand, preferably made of brass with a lacquer finish. 

Tip 2

As a beginner, it is always best to stick a basic or student trumpet until you become more proficient and are ready move on to an intermediate or professional instrument. There is very little need for you to purchase a new trumpet until you are capable of using it as trumpets can be expensive.

Tip 3

Determine the level of trumpet to buy. An intermediate trumpet will usually have more resistance in the upper register to prevent the player from over-blowing and ruining his/her tune. A professional instrument, depending on the model, will have little to no resistance, but will cost you a bit more. 

Tip 4

If your sound is bright and brassy, then you may want to purchase a cornet, a large bore trumpet, or a Ring Mute. If your sound is dark, which is tough to do without practice, you might want to start out on a small bore trumpet.

Tip 5

​Used saxophones will normally be less expensive that newer ones.  Many music stores offer both new and used saxophones and can assist you in choosing the right fit for you or your child. 

Tip 6

Carry out some research and learn about the particular types of trumpets.

Tip 7

It is always advisable to bring along a pro. If you have a relative or friend who plays the trumpet or know a trumpet teacher, bring them along when you shop. Let them test the instrument, listen to their opinions and take their advice into consideration before you buy.

Tip 8

Use both your fingers and eyes to examine the body of the trumpet. You do not want to buy a trumpet if it has pink or red spots, any dents or scratches. 

Tip 9

There are differences between beginner, intermediate and professional saxophones. Beginner saxophones play well, they have lesser craftsmanship and have fewer features than intermediate or professional saxophones. Be sure to specify that you want a beginner saxophone when purchasing if that is what you are looking for.

Tip 10

Valves and slides on a beginner trumpet should have a looser tolerance than intermediate and pro models. Be sure the parts of the beginner trumpet you are considering move freely. Push the valves down quickly and be sure they spring back up quickly and easily.

Buy vs Rent

In essence, rental is more flexible (with a monthly charge and ability to return), but buying (purchase) is more cost effective if you or your child stick with playing the instrument in the longer term.
 
The Skwiix Outlet offers both purchase and rentals on student trumpets with great flexibility to return. The advantages of purchasing include : -

• Long-term rental fees adds up quickly. A suitable playable student type trumpet can often be purchased for less than the cost of a year’s rental.
• A well chosen instrument that is well cared for will retain its value and usually return a substantial part of its purchase price when sold used or traded in for an intermediate trumpet.
• Rental instruments may be a bit worse for wear with nicks, dents, and scratches. You’re also liable for any damage on a rented trumpet.

New vs Second hand

Being a starter at playing the instrument, it does not make sense to go for an expensive trumpet as your very first trumpet neither will it make sense to buy an extremely cheap instrument.

If you are able to find a very good quality used instrument that has been taken care of, this can save you a substantial amount of money and therefore go for it. The reasoning that should drive the purchase of a new instrument should always be quality or workmanship that will support your effort to learn to play the instrument.
 
Visit the Skwiix outlet to see the price range of trumpets on offer. You may also find them in pawn shops, auctions, flea markets, classified ads, and online
 
Here are some quick Skwiix tips to buying a Trumpet : -

Tip 1

Set a budget of how much or how little you wish to spend on your trumpet. Remember that the cost is dependent on the condition of the trumpet. Used trumpets will normally be less expensive that newer ones.  Many music stores offer both new and used trumpets and can assist you in choosing the right fit for you or your child. Trumpets are often available through private sellers. Before you buy a used trumpet, it is best to ensure that all the repairs to the trumpet's valves, pads and slides have been done. A new trumpet and most second hand trumpets should automatically come in a case. 

Tip 2

There are differences between beginner, intermediate and professional trumpets. Beginner trumpets play well, they have lesser craftsmanship and have fewer features than intermediate or professional trumpets. Many student trumpets have a two-piece rather than a one-piece bell, which does affect sound quality. Be sure to specify that you want a beginner trumpet when purchasing.

Tip 3

The valves and slides on a beginner trumpet should have a looser tolerance than intermediate and pro models. Be sure the parts of the beginner trumpet you are considering move freely. Push the valves down quickly and be sure they spring back up quickly and easily.

Tip 4

Although it may be convenient and sometimes even less expensive to buy your trumpet online, it is best to go to a shop where you can actually look at and handle the horns. Different brands of trumpets have slightly different weights, so they will each feel different in your hands. Try out several before you make your decision.

Tip 5

Whether new or used, inquire about a warranty for the trumpet you intend to buy. Make sure the terms are spelled out clearly. It should include a time frame for returns or exchanges. It should also outline exactly what repairs will be made to the trumpet and for how long before charges would be incurred.

Tip 6

Pink or red spots on the trumpet is an indication of internal corrosion. A new trumpet should not have any dents or scratches; dents or dings can affect both the operation and sound of the trumpet. Feel the felts on the valves and the corks on the water keys to make sure they are present, that they look to be in good condition and do not need to be replaced.

Tip 7

Mouthpiece with A C-cup has a small rim and is the typical choice for a beginner trumpeter. As the trumpeter becomes more skilled, they may consider moving up to a 5C or 1C mouthpiece.

Tip 8

Carry out a check to ensure all the trumpet's valves and slides are in place. Push down and release all the valves, then pull out the slides one at a time and listen for a pronounced pop. If you don't hear one, the trumpet has an air leak and thus shouldn't be the one you buy.