James Smock, Trumpet

Ok, you want to play trumpet, so you need to get one in your hands right away! But how do you tell a good horn from a bad one? Where do you go to get a trumpet? How much should you pay? Calm down-I'm here to help. Follow my easy checklist, and you'll be on your way!

1) Go to a MUSIC STORE. Don't go to a big box store that sells everything under the sun, don't go to ebay. Go to a store that only sells music stuff. This is vital...if you buy a trumpet from IKEA, you are asking for trouble. In many cases these instruments are barely functional and are of such low quality they cannot even be repaired, if need be. At this stage, you need the support a shop provides. Allow me to iterate: GO TO A MUSIC STORE!

2) Shop for a reputable brand. A few of the best brands for a beginner are: Yamaha, Blessing and Bach. If you want the dirt on a horn, look on the Internet. A good beginner trumpet should cost a minimum of about $300. If the deal looks to good to be true, it is!

3) Consider renting. Depending on where you live, you should be able to rent a good horn for about $20 per month. That way, if you decide you don't want to play anymore, you can just give it back, and only be out the rental fees. Most stores have rent to own plans, as well.

4) Consider a cornet. What's a cornet? Well a cornet is a close cousin of the trumpet. It's played the same, and generally it is taken for granted that anyone who plays either can play both. The advantages are that a cornet has a more mellow sound (easier on the ears), and is a bit smaller, making it easier to hold, especially if you're a child-sized person. Don't take my word for it, though. Try one on for size at the music store you visit.

5) Make sure you get home with the right stuff. Any trumpet, whether purchased or rented should come with some accessories. At minimum, there should be a case, mouthpiece, and valve oil. You might push for a free "care kit", which includes polishing cloths, oils, grease, brushes for cleaning, etc... Also, if renting, ask about a repair plan. When I rented my first cornet, my parents wisely signed up for the "unlimited repairs" plan, providing all repairs free for the duration of the rental agreement. Thanks, Mom!

In Summary:

1) Go to a music store
2) Shop for a reputable brand
3) Consider renting
4) Consider a cornet
5) Get home with the right stuff

There you have it. All the information you need to make a good choice for your first trumpet. Of course, if you want to improve quickly, you'll hire a PRIVATE TEACHER, and if it's your intention to do so, then contact them BEFORE you buy your horn. They will be able help with a much more personalized recommendation.

HAPPY TRUMPETING!