I'm thinking of taking up trumpet... [Archive]

Mike Ruhl

02-14-2006, 10:15 PM

You didn't think I was actually going to listen to it again, did you?

The mere reminder of it was enough...

Although I'm havening a really hard time resisting the Jupiter 1010 series horns (http://www.jupitermusic.com/jbi_instrumentDetails.aspx?cId=24&lId=2|4&sId=1&pId=115), with its interchangable bells. And all of the cool mutes that are available...

Saxn

02-14-2006, 10:17 PM

ROTFL! Yeah I firgured. I just thought I'd fix it for those that haven't had the privilege yet.

draper

02-14-2006, 10:34 PM

http://www.musenet.com/files/fun1/tpxmas.htm 8-)

You're welcome.

AUGH!

gary

02-14-2006, 10:37 PM

...somebody please talk me out of it.
Not me...I play trumpet. It's a great axe. But, dude...a Jupiter? Go to http://www.trumpetherald.com/ it's the SOTW of the trumpet. Lots of good info.

But you have to prepare. Repeat after me 85 times: "Hi! I'm Mike. I play better than you. Hi! I'm Mike. I play better than you. Hi! I'm...."

You will also have to trade a fascination for Brecker's blazing fast notes for Maynard's or Arturo's high notes. Taste is not a prerequisite.

You'll also enjoy just pulling the mpc off the horn and throwing the trpt in the case and being on your third beer after a gig while the WW player is still swabbing him horn.

Jerry K.

02-14-2006, 11:28 PM

I must confess, I've also been mildly tempted to take up the trumpet as well. Only problem is the few times I've picked one up I can barely get a sound out of the darn thing. Is there a mpc that is known to be bigger or easier to play on?

gary

02-14-2006, 11:51 PM

Is there a mpc that is known to be bigger or easier to play on?Same as with sax, Jerry, there's one of every colour and flavour and for every of the week. But your problem was more likely that you just haven't spent enough time at it. All you have to do to get a reed to work is to blow on it. The lips are muscles and need development, sensitivity and strength before you can do a decent job on trumpet. It takes a beginner time.

Big Al

02-15-2006, 12:16 AM

But you have to prepare. Repeat after me 85 times: "Hi! I'm Mike. I play better than you. Hi! I'm Mike. I play better than you. Hi! I'm...."

Don't forget "I also play higher than you and I also play louder than you..."

Grumps

02-15-2006, 12:16 AM

I picked up one years ago on a whim. It was hanging on the wall of a run down music shop; not even for sure if was for sale or decoration. I bought it though, and a book and CD with it. I got just good enough to **** off my wife. Might have kept it up, but it takes much more dedication for the lip, and I figured it was time better spent playing a sax.

paulwl

02-15-2006, 12:56 AM

Those concerned about becoming trumpeters might choose the cornet instead. Yes, it's kind of like driving a Bentley instead of a Rolls, but the image counts for a lot. I've known cornetists and I've known trumpeters, and I much prefer hanging with cornetists.

sweetsax

02-15-2006, 01:09 AM

I've never really had the urge to play trumpet, but I have been very interested in the trombone. I think that's my favorite of all the brass instruments. I think the trombone just sounds more sultry and less strident than the trumpet.

02-15-2006, 03:03 AM

But the ultimate cool sultry is valve 'bone - think Brookmeyer and Enevoldson.

fballatore

02-15-2006, 03:11 AM

I'm thinking about taking up the accordian...

:shock:

Martin Williams

02-15-2006, 08:06 AM

Not me...I play trumpet. It's a great axe. But, dude...a Jupiter? Go to http://www.trumpetherald.com/ it's the SOTW of the trumpet. Lots of good info.

But you have to prepare. Repeat after me 85 times: "Hi! I'm Mike. I play better than you. Hi! I'm Mike. I play better than you. Hi! I'm...."

You will also have to trade a fascination for Brecker's blazing fast notes for Maynard's or Arturo's high notes. Taste is not a prerequisite.

You'll also enjoy just pulling the mpc off the horn and throwing the trpt in the case and being on your third beer after a gig while the WW player is still swabbing him horn.

Aye, everything Gary said. I started 'cause we have an all brass marching band here at Ohio State. It actually alot of fun

stefank

02-15-2006, 12:45 PM

you know that much beer isn't good for you.........

Stefan

Mike Ruhl

02-15-2006, 02:26 PM

Go to http://www.trumpetherald.com/ it's the SOTW of the trumpet. Lots of good info.:shock: Trumpet players can use a computer? Huh...who'd have thunk it?

But you have to prepare. Repeat after me 85 times: "Hi! I'm Mike. I play better than you. Hi! I'm Mike. I play better than you. Hi! I'm...."Thanks, but I've already got that part down. :twisted:

You will also have to trade a fascination for Brecker's blazing fast notes for Maynard's or Arturo's high notes. Taste is not a prerequisite.This could be a problem. I never cared for Brecker's playing. As a "Getz Fan", maybe I should take Paul's advice and try the cornet?

You'll also enjoy just pulling the mpc off the horn and throwing the trpt in the case and being on your third beer after a gig while the WW player is still swabbing him horn.Now you're talking (well, except for the beer part - I don't drink).

Actually, the real reason I'm considering it is because I want to play with the brass ensemble at our church.

SilverNeck20

02-15-2006, 05:10 PM

...somebody please talk me out of it.

No reeds to deal with.

stefank

02-16-2006, 07:06 AM

:

Now you're talking (well, except for the beer part - I don't drink).

I'm sure that when i was being introduced to elementary logic I was given the following as an example:

"All trumpet players drink, but not all drinkers are trumpet players".

I can't (offhand) think of any exceptions, but I'm growing old and forgetful.

Stefan

rabbit

02-16-2006, 09:00 AM

Rent or borrow to begin with. Have the thing around and play with it.
I discovered that the trumpet was too much work for the fun and that
my saxophone embouchure didn't like my trumpet embouchure. Your
mileage may vary. For grins, check out the Monette Trumpet website.

Keith Ridenhour

02-19-2006, 01:21 AM

I played trpt from 4th grade until two years in college (at Berklee in Boston). Its a hard, hard axe. If you think your sax chops suffer after not playing a few days try trpt?? I had to easily spend at least 75% of my time just doing emb building exercises?? But you might be a natural compared to me? I was very good until after high school and then my lack of high chops was a problem and I had a nasty tendency to have my lips swell. But have at it?? Unlike saxes you will sound pretty darn good on a on old used beat up horn with a Bach 7C mouthpiece. (I don't think its as horn dependent as sax where a bad horn really can hold you back.) Good luck. K

BlueNote

02-19-2006, 01:35 AM

I started playing trumpet today.

What I found was that the hardest part (so far anyway) isn't finding the notes, but being able to play with a full, clear tone.

newking70

02-19-2006, 11:20 AM

Is there a mpc that is known to be bigger or easier to play on?
do what eddie harris did , put a sax mpc on a trumpet.....yea i entertained thoughts of being the next harry james......but the embrochure is so hard on your lips:banghead: the teacher recommened i try the trombone, since the mpc is alot bigger.........;)

paulwl

02-19-2006, 03:03 PM

I played trpt from 4th grade until two years in college (at Berklee in Boston). Its a hard, hard axe.Any instrument is hard if you study it at Berklee...8-)

danyo

02-20-2006, 11:12 PM

i played trumpet for the last two years while playing sax, then i realized i couldnt hold a steady not on a sax b/c of playing too much trumpet... so i stopped.

sharp5

02-21-2006, 12:58 AM

Trumpet players. It's not fair. You can play high notes and not have to improvise and make just as much money as me while I juggle all the saxes, a clarinet and a ******* flute. Then get a pit gig and add a **** oboe so now you have to make two trips to bring in all your stuff. Just kidding. :D

Funny story. Had a tpt. friend of mine come back in town. Now he can play the horn. (not improvise) Lead in the touring Disney group. Masters, Doc. Degree and now Directs the jazz band a college that will remain nameless. We go to the local jazz hang out and he desides he wants to sit in. "What do you want to play man?"
"Chameleon" (of course, probably doesn't know who wrote it) Plays the head, puts his horn down and proceeds to the bar to hit on the ladies. Never even comes back to play the head out.

Learn tpt, drink beer and get women. Sounds like a no brainer to me. :shock:

Three Storms

02-22-2006, 11:02 PM

I played the trumpet in the 5th grade. It's easier than a sax to learn, but overall for it's sound I didn't find many songs I liked to play on it.

gary

02-22-2006, 11:41 PM

Plays the head, puts his horn down and proceeds to the bar to hit on the ladies. Never even comes back to play the head out.
Funny story - not atypical I'm afraid. The sad thing is that there are trumpet players who really do think they've done all they need to do when they play the tune...preferrably up an octave and with only one dynamic (guess what that one might be 8-) )

Trumpeter: "Hey man, if it's not good enough, go hire somebody else."

alsdiego

02-23-2006, 12:10 AM

OTOH, there are some trumpet guys who really work at the improv thing. Check out this guy's site, he's really got his stuff together.....

www.iwasdoingallright.com

The guy's name is Rick, and he's a heck of a nice guy.... knows a lot of sax player jokes, too!!

Al

sharp5

02-23-2006, 01:06 AM

There are some great guys. One of my best friends is a trumpet player and strangely he is really humble.

Find out some sax player jokes I want to here some. :D

alsdiego

02-23-2006, 01:15 AM

How many alto sax players does it take to change a light bulb?

Answer: Six..... one to change the bulb, and five to argue about how Charlie Parker would have changed it.

:D

Dr G

02-23-2006, 04:28 PM

Fluegelhorn.

paulwl

02-23-2006, 04:41 PM

I just got out the old Conn 4H trombone for a get-reacquainted puff, and my mom & dad (who are living with me while their place is being renovated) said "4H, hmmm?...That thing sounds like a farm animal, all right! Get it out again while we're here and we're wrapping it around your neck."

:( So much for that...for the time being. I got a Bb AND an F twice in a row, though, so there's hope.
And a Conn Vocal Cornet is on the way. (Maybe if all else fails I can sing thru it.)

gary

02-23-2006, 05:52 PM

Paul, LOL, ya gotta admire the simplicity of the bone, wot? Unless someone smacks the slide or a cockroach sets up house in it, there's just nothing that's gonna go wrong with it.

You have, once again, shown your sophistication and urbane taste by putting such a primitive appliance back in it's case where it belongs and restoring the sophisticated saxophone to it's justifiable prominence. ;)

paulwl

03-03-2006, 08:39 PM

The Vocal Cornet arrived. I can't play more than an octave on it either, but it's a hon of a little horn and in lovely shape, silver plate gleaming.

Fond as I am of Conn's reputation for gadget-making, I must tell you about the "Vocal" part of the cornet. It has a rotary valve that allows you to "quick change" the horn from a Bb cornet into a C cornet, or back again, with a flip of 2 fingers. It also has 2 sets of tuning slides, one set marked Bb, the other shorter and unmarked (maybe intended for finer tuning when in C).

http://static.flickr.com/51/107318294_a143d0cd99_o.jpg

Mike Ruhl

03-03-2006, 08:44 PM

Very cool, Paul. I'd like to pick up an old King Silver-Sonic trumpet to match my Super 20 tenor.

gary

03-03-2006, 09:12 PM

Paul, just a word of caution. Many of those old trumpets/cornets are wonderful looking things but they can have too much resistance and other problems that will keep someone from playing well. What I'm trying to say, is that, unlike many "vintage" saxes that play very well, many vintage trumpets are just a hinderance. I played trumpet for around 15 or 16 years, in music school and professionally, and I wouldn't have touched most older trumpets.

I'm not posting this to discourage you but rather to just encourage you to check out other contemporary trumpets if you are having trouble learning how to play and you think it's you and not the horn.

Having said that, it looks cool, I hope it is truly a one-of-a kind and that it works well for you.

Mike Ruhl

03-03-2006, 09:14 PM

I'm not posting this to discourage you but rather to just encourage you to check out other contemporary trumpets if you are having trouble learning how to play and you think it's you and not the horn.Like, say for instance, a Jupiter? :twisted:

Bar-Ron

03-04-2006, 05:06 AM

Play trumpet for the limitations but play sax for the expression.

paulwl

03-04-2006, 04:23 PM

Yeah, I wouldn't encourage any dedicated reedperson to approach even a Benny Carter level of trumpet playing. I mean, the guy could toss off a credible Armstrong lick into his 80s. ?!! That kind of range and expressiveness on such a high-pressure brass - combined with such sublime virtuosity on alto – probably owed itself to some freak physiology and/or freak talent. AND surely perseverance in the face of every recognized authority, as well as both your horns at times, telling you it can't be done.

A better goal might be "utility trumpet" doubling. Don't worry about ever making high C. Stick to finding a nice straight even tone. Play third parts. Play third sax parts. Play long tones, overtones...tones. Stop well before you want to bend the horn around a floor lamp. Then, when you feel up to it, try to play a little quiet jazz. But don't get fancy. It''ll be enough to play the horn well. Work on that.

WillieB

03-04-2006, 04:41 PM

As a young reed player, going through school and private teachers, I was told that as a reed player, picking up the trumpet or cornet was a no-no. The embouchure develops differently - and doing both would not be prudent... fallacy?

gary

03-04-2006, 04:56 PM

WillieB

03-04-2006, 05:27 PM

Ridiculous.

Good to know, now I can pickup that old Bach my sister used to play... if I so choose.

Mike Ruhl

03-06-2006, 09:43 PM

A better goal might be "utility trumpet" doubling. Don't worry about ever making high C. Stick to finding a nice straight even tone. Play third parts. Play third sax parts. Play long tones, overtones...tones. Stop well before you want to bend the horn around a floor lamp. Then, when you feel up to it, try to play a little quiet jazz. But don't get fancy. It''ll be enough to play the horn well. Work on that.This is exactly my goal.

sinebar

03-07-2006, 12:08 AM

Flashback time.
http://www.musenet.com/files/fun1/tpxmas.htm 8-)

You're welcome.

I really wasn't amused by that. In fact I'm a little miffed.

gary

03-07-2006, 12:11 AM

Like, say for instance, a Jupiter? :twisted:
Mike, I know this is a little late but I just got that; and late though it may be, it merits comment. So here's my comment -

:sign5:
Good one.

:D

Saxn

03-07-2006, 03:15 PM

I really wasn't amused by that. In fact I'm a little miffed.
Why, were you playing in that ensemble?

paulwl

03-07-2006, 03:57 PM

Oh swell. I've now been forbidden from practicing brasses (or sax overtones) (or basically anything that needs practicing) AT ALL by the folks, who will be in residence at least thru the end of the month and are becoming rather crochety about getting out during the daytime.

Can anybody recommend a day care facility for retired Type A executives who are too restless for yoga and too cynical for volunteer work?

Saxn

03-07-2006, 04:15 PM

Wait... you mean you can't practice during the friggin' DAY?? No way, man. Isn't there some kind of 'reasonable hours' clause in your lease?

mikwat1

03-08-2006, 11:26 PM

TRUMPET!!!!!!!!!!!!? ARE YOU ON ACID????????

IF IT DOESN'T USE A SLIDE TO CHANGE NOTES OR A REED TO MAKE THEM, IT'S NOT WORTH IT.

Dr G

03-08-2006, 11:53 PM

Can anybody recommend a day care facility for retired Type A executives who are too restless for yoga and too cynical for volunteer work?

In this region, they are called casinos. :shock:

Hug 'em while you can and cherish them. Yes, one of my parents just died. :cry:

edoguy

05-04-2006, 12:16 AM

me to
couple months ago I wanted to play a trumpet
but most were to expensive for my budget so i looked on ebay and got a really good one for 100 dollars

Tom Goodrick

05-09-2006, 04:40 AM

There are problems with buying used trumpets - possible valve damage. Don't buy a used trumpet unless you can try it out or have a friend who knows better check it. After applying a little valve oil, all the values should go down and come up very easily. You should feel only a very little resistance when manipulating the vales. If the trumpet has been dropped on its side, the walls of the cylinders and the sides of the pistons may have been damaged. Even a good tech will have difficulty fixing such a problem. You want a trumpet with good action. Your best bet is to buy any new student horn. The valves will be passable as long as you don't drop the horn or let it get knocked over when on the stand. Trumpets used in school bands get pretty beat up.

Trombones can get beat up but a good tech can bring most of them up to acceptability for a few $100. The slides get knicks. I'd also recommend a new student-level trombone rather than a used horn.

It only takes practice to get reasonably good on those horns as second instruments. But it takes lots of it to build enough of a lip to play for a couple of hours.

I do not see any aspect of the chops for either saxes or trumpets and trombones that are incompatible. But it probably takes more work to make good chops for the trumpet than for any sax. I started with trumpet and trombone long before playing any sax. I have played tenor, alto and soprano sax. I am reasonably good with all but an expert with none.

You can get as good as you want to get - unless you run out of time!

Master.America

05-09-2006, 05:30 AM

Yeah... I got a new trumpet for Christmas. I haven't practiced it with fear of getting noise complaints from the neighbors upstairs, and that's being said after having been practicing overtones for a couple months.

I did take it out once or twice, though, just for kicks. Wasn't too long ago, either. I thought it might help me with that overtone practice. It didn't, but I learned that I could make a funny horsey noise with the trumpet that you can't make easily with a saxophone.

After a couple hours' practice with a beginner's book, I could play a C scale without too much trouble. Didn't do crud for my saxophone playing. I was disappointed.

Tom Goodrick

05-09-2006, 10:39 PM

I think it is the other way around. Playing sax helps the brass chops. The only thing going the other way is maybe the air control. All horns need that. Horns do help you learn to blow with an open throat if you tend to constrict your throat. I have found myself tightening the throat a little when pushing air through the sop with an open mouthpiece. I have been working with the trumpet to get back to that open-throat feel that is best for tone on all horns.