Exploring the
ORCHESTRA
Trumpet
Musical Section:
Brass (Instruments that make sound when the player buzzes their lips into a mouthpiece, causing the instrument to vibrate. Other instruments in this family: trumpet, trombone, French horn, tuba, euphonium.) . Other instruments in this family: French Horn, Trombone, Tuba
About the Trumpet
What it looks like
A trumpet is a shiny, brass instrument that makes a loud and bright sound. It can play highest of all the members of the brass family.
The trumpet may look small, but it packs a punch. In fact, it can reach over 120 decibels—almost as loud as a rock concert!
No wonder trumpets are often used to lead marching bands. In case anyone is sleeping when the parade goes by, the trumpet is sure to wake them up!
Did you know? Trumpets have traveled into outer space? Astronaut Chris Hadfield played a trumpet in the International Space Station!
How to Play
Both Maestros
1.) Put your lips on the mouthpiece
2.) Make your lips buzz like this:
3.) Blow steady air
4.) Press the 3 valves to change the notes and play different sounds.
5.) Make music!
The Trumpet Acting Extra!
In some new pieces of music, trumpets are called on to do strange new techniques:
Flutter-tonguing: While blowing, the player rolls their tongue, creating a rough, growly, almost like a outboard boat motor!
Multiphonics: Singing and playing two notes at the same time, creating an eerie, buzzy sound.
Key clicks: Clicking the valves to make a percussive sound. It’s almost like the trumpet is acting like a drum!
