The Trumpet Player

Encouraging Your Child to Practise

2013-05-17T22:03:00.000+01:00

Encouraging students to practise is challenging. To many youngsters practising is a 'chore'. Parents often don't help the matter much by forcing their child to practise - making it seem like even more of a chore.

I myself didn't practise much when I was alot younger but when I saw the true benefits of practising and the pure enjoyment that I got from playing, I started to practise more and more.

Tips to parents:
1. Don't force, encourage.
Try not to 'make' your child practise, this immediately takes away the enjoyment and makes it feel more like a chore. Instead encourage them to practise, "can you play that piece to me? I would really like to hear it!" and make your child see the benefit that practising has "that is sounding loads better!"

2. Find ensembles for them to play in.
Try and en roll your child in a band or an orchestra, this will develop there playing without traditional practise sessions. This will begin to make playing more and more enjoyable for your child.

3. Give your child a wide arrange of sheet music.
A wide arrange of music, away from exam syllabuses will make practising a lot more enjoyable. Children love to be able to play there favourite film tunes or pop songs on their instrument.

4. Encourage your child to listen to other players.
Take your child to concerts (not ones that will be 'boring' to a child) and show your child what they could be like one day, if they practised. This is something which definitely helped me to reach my true potential.

Ask your child's teacher to explain a practise routine to your child, things they should be doing every time they play, and how long for. Make sure your teacher tells your child what they want them to work on each week, if you have to supply them with a 'practise book' to write in.

Finally, don't force your child to play an instrument if they really aren't enjoying it. Music is never going to be fun if it is forced upon you.

Musical Gift Websites

2013-05-13T23:14:00.000+01:00

I have had a look around the Internet and found some excellent websites for music themed gifts. Many of these websites I have purchased from and would recommend.

www.musicgifts.co.uk
www.giftsformusicians.co.uk
www.giftedmusician.co.uk
www.facethemusic-newforest.co.uk
www.musicroom.com/gifts
www.thegiftofmusic.com
www.themusicpeople.co.uk
www.musicnotables.co.uk
www.musicroomdirect.com
www.musicgiftsofengland.com (USA)

I would love to hear any other suggestions in the comments below.

How to Get Valve Oil Out of Paper

2013-05-12T14:44:00.000+01:00

We've all been there, you have an important sheet of paper or music that doesn't belong to you, and you manage to spil valve oil on it.

I've found a solution to this problem!

You will need:

Flour/Corn Flour
A heavy book etc.

1. Take your flour and place some on the surface underneath the oil stain on the paper.

2. Completely cover the oil stain on top of the paper with a good amount of the flour.

3. Place a book/a heavy object on top of the flour.

4. Leave at least over night, to allow the oil to be soaked up.

You might need to leave the flour for longer depending on how bad the oil stain is.

Putting New Corks Onto a Mute

2013-05-11T19:04:00.000+01:00

To repair your mute you will need:

Corks
Sandpaper/nail file
Strong glue
A Rubber band

I used Humes and Berg corks specifically for my mute. I bought these from amazon for around £4. I'm sure it is also possible to make your own corks from wine bottle corks or a cork board, if you want to save a little bit of money.

The glue I used was Bostik Glu and Fix all purpose extra strong glue. It worked very well.

Steps:

1. Make sure all of the old cork is taken off so that you have a clean and smooth surface to work this. I used sandpaper to take the remains of the cork off and this did not damage the mute.

2. Place a small amount of glue onto your cork.

3. Press the cork onto the mute firmly. Then place a rubber band around the corks to hold in place. Try to avoid moving the cork around too much once it is on the mute.

4. Place on a radiator to dry. Do not use the mute until the glue is thoroughly dry.

The glue I used did not take long to dry at all however I would recommend leaving overnight if possible before using the mute.

Your cork may also need filling down to ensure that it has the perfect fit inside your instrument.

Revising for GCSE/A-Level Music

2013-05-11T07:57:00.000+01:00

1. Know your pieces. If you have set pieces, make sure you listen to then over and over again until you have a complete idea of the structure, any of the main features and characteristics - know exactly where they occur and what instruments etc. are playing where.

Tools: mind maps, cue cards with bar numbers on, Annotated scores (in colour) and power points.

If you need to learn a specific ABAC etc. structure, create colour coded cue cards with each section letter on. Listen to the music and hold up each card at the correct section in the music.
Create a table summarising each section of the music. Keep the notes short and use key bar numbers. Learn this table and then try to recreate it from memory.

2. Practise. Do all the practise papers that are available to you. If you have essays in your exam, ask your teacher to give you more questions to do and hand them in to be marked. Do them under timed conditions.

Look at example essays and compare with your own analysing what you could have done differently.

Good luck for exam period. Don't give up it will be over soon. Make sure you revise until you can revise no more.

Would anyone be interested in some A-level music resources if I was to upload them to my blog?

Studying A-Level Music

2013-05-09T07:47:00.000+01:00

Without a doubt A-Level music is a very rewarding subject. It is however not easy. To get a high mark you have to be strong in every component of the course, which is uncommon in most cases.

OCR is the exam board that I am familiar with, but the others also have a similar structure. These are the components of the course:

Performing:

At AS you are required to perform for a maximum of 8 minutes on your main instrument.
You then have a 5 minute Viva Voce with the examiner who will ask you questions such as "what do you think was good about your performance?".
For section C of the performance module you can either perform for a maximum of 4 minutes on a second instrument, as an ensemble, performe your composition or improvise for 2 minutes with 10 minute preparation.

(Your pieces must be a minimum of grade 5)

At A2 you are required to perform for a maximum of 15 minutes on your main instrument. The pieces you choose to play must be related in some way, such as two movements from a concerto or two fugues. You will then, as at AS, have a Viva Voce with the examiner. You will be expected to have done preparatory listening for this discussion and will have produced a write up for the examiner to ask you questions from, relating the listening to the interpretation of your performance.
(Your pieces must be a minimum of grade 6)

Composing:

AS part 1:
You have to produce a portfolio of 7 harmony exercises produced by your teacher.
Part 2:
Produce an original composition in any style.

A2 part 1:
You have to produce a portfolio of 7 harmony exercises produced by your teacher.
Part 2:
Produce a vocal, programme or TV/film clip composition.

Exam

At AS you will study 3 orchestral works and 3 jazz works in detail. In the exam you will have a choice of two questions in section A based on music you haven't studied. Section B is made up of questions on 1 of the orchestral works and 1 jazz work. In section C you have to answer an essay question based on the set works. You have your own CD containing the music related to the questions in A and B.

At A2 you study vocal works composed between 1900 and 1945. There are no set works for this part so you will probably listen to a wide variety of different works in your lessons. For the second part there is a variety of choice, which will be chosen by your teacher. You will study programme music, popular music, music for the stage, music for the screen or music and belief. The exam is made up of two sections. Section A comprises of questions on an unheard piece of vocal music. One of the questions requires you to compare the music to another piece you have listened to. In section B you have to write two essays on works you have studied relating to the second part of the history module. Again you will have your own CD.

Amazing!

2013-05-01T23:09:00.003+01:00

I just came across this video on YouTube and had to share.

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Bxt-3KL5D5Q

13 year old Selina Ott.

New Youtube Video: The Londonderry Air

2013-04-03T21:20:00.000+01:00

Trumpet Stands

2013-01-28T14:13:00.000Z

I currently own two different trumpet stands. One is the K&M folding stand and the other is the Hercules E/Z safe trumpet stand.

K&M Folding Trumpet/Cornet Stand

This is a great stand for travelling with. The stand itself is sturdy, with 5 legs for support. The only thing that I am worried about with this stand is that it could possibly cause dents to the bell. If changing between trumpets quickly in an orchestra, then maybe this stand isn't for you because although it has a rubber tip, it is possible that damage could still be caused.

However, this stand is brilliant for a trumpeter travelling to and from gigs and rehearsals. It is very lightweight and the legs unscrew and store inside the top part, which can then be stored inside the bell of the trumpet.

Hercules E/Z Safe Trumpet/Cornet Stand

This is a very sturdy stand. It has 3 legs with rubber feet, meaning that the stand is very stable and keeps the trumpet safe, avoiding any falls. It has an adjustable 'peg' at the top, which can be adjusted to the right height for a trumpet or a cornet. The tip has a rubber ball, preventing any damage to the bell.

However this stand is a lot less easier to transport as it is very heavy and doesn't really fold up - unscrews into two parts.

I feel that this stand is better suited to home use and I often use mine to store my trumpet in my room.

Transposing

2013-01-26T14:50:00.000Z

The trumpet is a transposing instrument, in Bb. Quite often music is also written for trumpet in C, D, Eb and F. With practise it is possible to transpose into all of these keys.

C Transposition
This is the most common transposition and probably the easiest.
Trumpet in C to Trumpet in Bb = up a tone.
Adding two sharps to the key signature will give you the new one. (for example C major will become D major, F major will become G major).

Trumpet in C

Trumpet in Bb

Eb Transposition
Trumpet in Eb to Trumpet in Bb = up a perfect 4th
To work out the key signature at one flat (G major-C major etc.)

Trumpet in Eb

Trumpet in Bb

F Transposition
Trumpet in F to Trumpet in Bb = up a perfect 5th.
To get the key signature add one sharp.

Trumpet in F

Trumpet in Bb

D Transposition
Trumpet in D to Trumpet in Bb = up a major third
To get the key signature add four sharps.

Trumpet in D

Trumpet in Bb

I would recommend using a sight reading book to practise transposition to different keys. As you get better, move onto exercises that are the next level/grade up.

Using the Arban

2013-01-25T12:56:00.000Z

The J.B Arban Cornet Method, is many trumpet players 'bible'. It really helps to improve tounging, tone, range, ornamentation and overall technique. Each section begins with very basic exercises and ends with much harder, more demanding exercises. This book is therefore perfect for a trumpeter at any stage.

The Arban is particullarily useful for developing double and tripple tounging. This is a very important technique for all trumpeters as sometimes passages are too fast to single tongue perfectly. The sections start off simply, with repeated notes and as the book progresses the exercises become much more difficult with more intervals and movement. Double and triple tounging is something that should be practised every day in order to be maintained and developed.

The exercises are useful for warming up as well as the slur exercises beginning on page 39. Slurring is an important exercise for brass players and although is not easy at first, gets much easier as time goes on (as long as you practise regularily!) and the muscles in your lips become stronger.

I also like the exercises in intervals (from page 125 onwards). These will help to improve your range and make high notes much easier to play from nothing. Exercise 38 on page 36 is also very useful for developing intervals.

Each section has a written introduction explaining how each technique should be acheived and faults that should be avoided.

Part 3 of the book (191 onwards) contains 18 technically demanding pieces and also 14 very demanding studies which make use of most of the techniques covered in the rest of the book.

This book is a must for all trumpet players and should be a feature of every practise session. It will really help to develop technique which can be applied to all types of music.

Music on your Ipad?

2013-01-24T11:02:00.000Z

I recently discovered that the kindle store from amazon sells trumpet music. It costs a lot less than buying the paper version and is available for download immediately. So if you own a kindle or Ipad/Iphone with a kindle app (free from the app store), check it out!

Obviously this does make it slightly harder to read the music as it is smaller and you are unable to annotate, but I think it is perfect if you want to 'try before you buy'. You are also able to download a sample before buying which will give you the first page to look at, before you part with your cash.

Dealing With Performace Anxiety

2013-01-24T10:21:00.000Z

Performance anxiety is something that all musicians suffer from, however some find it easier to deal with than others. It is very easy to let nerves affect your performance, but there are some ways to deal with them.

1. Perform as much as possible
If you suffer from performance anxiety it is very easy to let yourself avoid performing as much as possible, however if you never perform you will never truly learn how best to deal with your nerves. Take as many opportunities to perform as possible, it will get easier.

2. Breathe
Breathing is one of the most important things you can do to calm yourself. Before you go on take some deep breaths slowly in through your nose and out through your mouth. This will truly help you to relax. Don't forget to breathe during the performance too. Breathing is one of the first things to go when we are nervous. Write "breathe" on your music, in important places and if you have a rest in the middle, take some more deep breaths (don't forget to count though!).

3. Believe in Yourself
Tell yourself "I can do this", reassurance is very important. Standing up in front of an audience is a very hard thing to do, be proud of yourself for having the courage to do it.

4. Rescue Remedy

Bach's Rescue Remedy is a homeopathic medicine used for stress and anxiety. It contains natural ingredients and so can be taken by anyone (including children). I have read many mixed reviews from musicians about whether this truly helps with performance anxiety, but I believe it does. It is possible that it has the 'placebo' effect, so if you use it tell yourself that it will work! It comes in many different forms, but I personally use the spray. You spray it twice onto your tongue when you feel nervous and it is meant to relax you (however it doesn't taste particularly pleasant!). I really feel that it helped me and it is now an essential in my trumpet case.

5. Buzz Words

Write encouraging and reassuring words at the top of your music. Things like "relax", "smile" and "calm" will help to reassure you when on stage.

6. Eat Bananas?!

I have no idea whether this actually works, but some people swear by it! It is apparently down to the potassium and vitamin B that the banana contains that reduce nerves and shaking. People suggest eating a banana half an hour before a performance. Anything’s worth trying!

7. Shaking? - Stand Straight

Shaking legs during a performance can be particularly annoying and can show your true nerves to the audience. If this is something you suffer with, keep your legs straight at all times. Never bend your knees as this seems to make it worse.

Product Review: Tom and Will Gig Bag

2013-01-23T11:33:00.000Z

I've been using my Jack and Will trumpet gig bag for the last four weeks now, and I already can't live without it.

Firstly, it is very well padded and I feel that my trumpet is very safe in it. It has a large pocket for storing valve oil etc and also comes with a mouthpiece case. Personally as I don't own a vast collection of mouthpieces, I find the mouthpiece slightly too large.

On the back, the case has a detachable music case, which is attached by poppers. It is a very good size and comes in very useful, especially as so many cases lack music storage!

The backpack straps are adjustable and well padded, so it is very comfortable to wear. Overall I would 100% recommend this gig bag to any trumpet player. It is perfect for travelling or for school and keeps the trumpet very well protected. These cases come in a range of colours, the one I have here is 'three tone grey'.

It is currently priced at £41.03 on Amazon UK:

Good Music Featuring Trumpets

2013-01-23T00:12:00.001Z

1. "Penny Lane" by The Beatles.
This is a classic and an obvious choice. The piccolo trumpet solo in the middle is fantastic. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1FlQCtg96SQ

2. Most Michael Buble Music.
Much of Michael Buble's music features trumpets. He has three amazing trumpet players in his band, one of them being Jumaane Smith: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWW5PEITpzk . My favourite over the christmas period has been "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" from his Christmas album: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnA52s7qceM .

3. "Mambo" from West Side Story by Berstein.
This is a lively piece of music featuring lots of percussion and also has a brilliant trumpet solo near the end. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kokbJvSEMUY

4. Mars from "The Planets Suite" by Holst.
Contains some great brass and trumpet moments. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8EwBTQhl3Y

5. "Candide Overture" by Bernstein.
This is definitely worth a listen. It is a lively piece and is sure to brighten up your day! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZPF5mPIpXU

Trumpet gifts I received for Christmas

2013-01-02T23:37:00.002Z

These are some of the trumpet related gifts that I received for Christmas with short reviews and links (both UK and USA if possible) to all.

1. Tom and Will Trumpet Gig Bag.

I really love this gig bag. It has a big pocket on the front, a detachable pocket on the back for music and is very well padded. I know that my trumpet will be well protected in this!

2. K&M Trumpet stand.

Legs fold up and store inside. The stand can then store in the trumpet bell.

3. Jupiter 7C cornet mouthpiece.
Basic affordable mouthpiece.

4. Hummel trumpet concerto.

A great trumpet concerto for advanced players.

5. The Trumpet Collection: Intermediate to Advanced Level (G.Schirmer Instrumental Library)

A Brilliant book and cd containing very well known trumpet pieces by composers such as Goedicke, Haydn, Hummel, Neruda and Clarke. The cd contains backing tracks as well as performances.

6. Alison Balsom: Sound the trumpet.

A brilliant album by World renowned trumpeter Alison Balsom. Throughout this album she plays a period, valveless trumpet.

7. Alison Balsom: Haydn and Hummel Trumpet Concertos

A lovely album by a inspirational and talented trumpet player.

8. Trumpet Ornament by Crystal Temptations

http://www.boosey.com/shop/prod/Gold-Plated-Trumpet/2066969

9. ChopSaver
I love this lip balm and you can read a full review here

Product Review: Aqua Sulis Gig Bag

2012-12-07T23:16:00.000Z

This is one of the cheapest gig bags that I have managed to find on the internet at around £30 and was the reason that I bought it. http://compare.ebay.co.uk/like/400318346039?var=lv&ltyp=AllFixedPriceItemTypes&var=sbar&adtype=pla&crdt=0

It comes with two detachable back pack straps, which adjust easily (sometimes a bit too easily!). It has a zip pocket on the front and a pouch for two mouthpieces (this has a velcro closing, which is don't feel is very secure). It does seem well enough padded.

Overall I don't feel that this case is very good quality and mine is beging to fray at the edges. I wouldn't recommend it and would suggest maybe spending a bit more money to get something that is better quality.

Product Review: ChopSaver

2012-12-07T22:59:00.000Z

ChopSaver is a product that I would thoroughly recommend to any trumpet player.

ChopSaver is a lip balm that contains all natural ingredients such as Shea butter, aloe and citrus oils. It also contains ingredients that reduce inflammation, perfect if you have a long rehearsal!

It has a very slight lemon scent and it very light on the lips. It is not greasy at all.

Overall I really like this product, it is good value for money and really soothes the lips.

www.chopsaver.com

Recommended Trumpet Music

2012-12-07T17:15:00.001Z

This is a list of my recommended trumpet music, mostly classical (my preferred genre). I will try and include some sort of 'level'/grade for each and provide a link to where it is available in the UK (and US if possible).

1. Old English Trumpet Tunes (ISBN: 9780193575424)
A collection of 17th and 18th century trumpet pieces by composers such as Henry Purcell, Bach and Handel. It includes 13 fantastic solos for trumpet and piano/organ accompaniment. I especially love 'Trumpet Voluntary' by Boyce, probably the most challenging piece in the book. I would recommend from grade 4/5.
http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/064502/details.html
http://www.amazon.com/Old-English-Trumpet-Tunes-Book/dp/0193575426/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1354899492&sr=8-3&keywords=old+english+trumpet+tunes

2. The Baroque Trumpet (ISBN: 9780571517046)
A collection of 16 solos with piano accompaniment from the Baroque period. Includes pieces by composers such as Teleman. Grades 4/5.
http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/076400/details.html

9780571517046

3. The Very Best of John Williams: Instrumental Solos (Trumpet) (ISBN: 9780757923548)
Some of the very best John Williams pieces from films such as Harry Potter and Star Wars. Includes a CD with accompaniment. Grades 3-5.
http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/076510/details.html
http://www.amazon.com/Very-Williams-Instrumental-Solos-Trumpet/dp/0757923542/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1354899781&sr=1-1&keywords=john+williams+trumpet

4. Haydn: Trumpet Concerto
A brilliant concerto for advanced players (grades 7-8+).
http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/06771/details.html
http://www.amazon.com/Haydn-Trumpet-Concerto-Classical-Play-Along/dp/1423462416/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1354899949&sr=1-1&keywords=haydn+trumpet+concerto

5. Flor Peeters: Sonata in Bb
2nd movement- grade 5+, 1st and 3rd- grade 8+.
http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/0333057/details.html
http://www.amazon.com/Sonata-Trumpet-Piano-Opus-51/dp/B0000D0VCE/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1354900125&sr=1-1&keywords=flor+peeters+sonata+for+trumpet

6. Guestspot: The Beatles Playalong for Trumpet (ISBN: 9780711989481)
A fun book with well known Beatles songs. Includes a CD with demos and accompaniment.
http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/019239/details.html
http://www.amazon.com/Trumpet-Beatles-published-Omnibus-Paperback/dp/B00A0FGGJO/ref=sr_1_5?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1354900346&sr=1-5&keywords=beatles+trumpet

Trumpet Player of the Week: Wyton Marsalis

2012-12-07T08:25:00.001Z

Wyton Marsalis is an American trumpet player specialising in both jazz and classical.
He is not only a performer but also a composer and educator.
He has won an amazing 9 Grammy awards in both the classical and jazz genres.

Classical:
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0-jDld11jhw

Jazz:
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=9OtZrIjQuwA

wytonmarsalis.org

The Trumpet's Role at Christmas

2012-12-05T15:29:00.000Z

As Christmas approaches I thought I would take a look at the role the trumpet plays at christmas.

At this time of year, Christmas carol services are happening everywhere. Quite often the trumpet is an instrument that will feature in many of these, playing descants on the last verse of carols. These are high ornamental melodies, above the main melody line and sound glorious on the trumpet, especially in the acoustics of a church.

A frequent feature on the streets at Christmas is brass bands playing Christmas carols, the trumpets/cornets usually taking the melody line. I love listening to these ensembles under the Christmas lights at this time of year.

The trumpet is usually an instrument that features in Christmas angels' hands. This is because they are an instrument that is often used to announce an important message (fanfare) and the Christmas angel announces the birth of Jesus

Trumpet Gifts for Christmas!

2012-12-04T11:22:00.000Z

I have taken a pick trumpet themed gifts for this Christmas, perfect for any trumpet lover. I have included prices and tried to include P&P costs where possible. This is just a pick of trumpet gifts, there are many more out there!

UK:
Trumpet Wall Clock £9.99 (+£1.95 P&P): http://compare.ebay.co.uk/like/190709025167?var=lv&ltyp=AllFixedPriceItemTypes&var=sbar&cbt=y

Trumpet Pencil £0.50 (P&P free): http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/0156034/details.html

Trumpet Glass £4.99 (P&P free): http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/0155798/details.html

Trumpet Cuff Links £14.95 (P&P free): http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01063469/details.html

Trumpet Case Sticker £1.99 (P&P free): http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/0156075/details.html

Trumpet Tie £11.99 (P&P free): http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/0155954/details.html

Trumpet Bracelet Charm £18.95 (P&P free): http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01062497/details.html

Trumpet Socks £2.99 (+£2.95 P&P):

Trumpet Necklace £21.04:

Trumpet Bag £18.99 (+£3.85 P&P): http://www.amazon.co.uk/Trumpet-Trust-Me-Accessory-MusicaliTee/dp/B004O1GKY6/ref=sr_1_46?ie=UTF8&qid=1354618544&sr=8-46
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Trumpet-Love-My-Accessory-MusicaliTee/dp/B004O1LNKW/ref=sr_1_59?ie=UTF8&qid=1354618655&sr=8-59

Trumpet Christmas Tree Ornament £11.99 (P&P free over £35): http://www.zazzle.co.uk/trumpet_ornament-175865184376875199

Trumpet T-Shirt: £14.95 (free P&P over £35): http://www.zazzle.co.uk/trumpet_t_shirt-235560444845261220

Trumpet Iphone Case £19.50: http://www.cafepress.co.uk/+trumpet_iphone_4_slider_case,484356825

Trumpet Flip Flops £15: http://www.cafepress.co.uk/+trumpet_flip_flops,565030929

USA:
Trumpet Earrings $18.49: http://www.amazon.com/Harmony-Jewelry-Trumpet-Earrings-Silver/dp/B001JSYISM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1354619552&sr=8-3&keywords=trumpet+gifts

Trumpet Cuff links $36.99 (+$5.99 P&P): http://www.amazon.com/The-Mens-Gift-Company-Cufflinks/dp/B009QD4G3E/ref=sr_1_38?ie=UTF8&qid=1354619640&sr=8-38&keywords=trumpet+gifts

Trumpet Necklace $19.49: http://www.amazon.com/Harmony-Jewelry-Trumpet-Necklace-Gold/dp/B001JSV3QW/ref=sr_1_77?ie=UTF8&qid=1354619773&sr=8-77&keywords=trumpet+gifts

Notebook $2.98 (+$5.49): http://www.amazon.com/Gift-House-3D-NOTEBOOK-TRUMPET/dp/B008JETON8/ref=sr_1_127?ie=UTF8&qid=1354619857&sr=8-127&keywords=trumpet+gifts

Why you should oil your valves every day...

2012-12-04T00:10:00.000Z

Oiling your trumpet valves is very important if you want your trumpet to last a long time. I would recommend oiling your valves every time you play.

Valve oil not only lubricates the valves and valve casing, to ensure that the valves move easily, it also protects the valves from corrosive elements in saliva.

Do not wait until your valves become sticky. The lack of lubrication could damage your valves as friction could wear away the protective coating on the valve. The corrosive elements found in saliva could also cause damage by wearing away the protective coating. In the long term this would mean that the valve would no longer move as smoothly and this would cause problems during playing.

Which Valve Oil Should I Use?
There are two different types of valve oils, natural (petroleum based) and synthetic. Synthetic valve oils are meant to evaporate less rapidly than natural, reducing the frequency of oiling your valves.
Natural valve oil:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Denis-Wick-Advanced-Formula-Valve/dp/B003B139D0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1354579249&sr=8-1
Synthetic:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Blue-Juice-BJ2-Valve-Oil/dp/B0002FOGFI/ref=pd_cp_MI_0

All sounds a bit confusing doesn't it? Try out many different valve oils and find the right one for you, as different musicians have different opinions.

I would personally recommend 'Blue Juice Valve Oil' (synthetic valve oil linked above). It is great value for money as it comes in a massive bottle and a little goes a long way. It is the best valve oil I have tried and I find that it keeps my valves moving smoothly for a long time.

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2012-12-03T23:30:00.001Z

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Things to Think About Before Buying a Trumpet...

2012-11-26T00:24:00.000Z

Buying a new instrument is not easy, with many different brands, models and prices. Here are some things that I think you should consider before buying a trumpet.

Firstly trumpets come in three different 'levels': student, intermediate and professional.
Student trumpets are a good starting point for any player. They are not as high quality, but are easy to maintain. They are usually the cheapest, and so are perfect for a 'student' who may possibly decide that they want to stop playing.

Intermediate trumpets are perfect for developing players who are moving on past the basics and onto higher level playing. I would say they are great for roughly grade 3+ (A great intermediate trumpet is the Yamaha 4335, of which I have done a review here on my blog).

Professional trumpets are for serious players, they are high quality and also the priciest!

Things to think about:

Set a price limit. Generally, the more you pay, the better the quality.
Try before you buy. Take the time to try lots of different brands and models to find something that you like. A good tip is to take your own mouthpiece. (If you don't yet play the trumpet, take someone who does - if possible).
Bore Size. The smaller the bore size, the easier it is to play. Generally, most trumpets seem to have a M/L bore. A large bore will produce a bigger sound, but it will be harder to control.
Finish. Yellow brass, gold brass or silver plated? Yellow brass gives a warmer sound, gold brass will give a darker sound and silver brass will always be more expensive. (Try out different finished before you buy).

Additional things you may want to buy if you are a beginner:

Teaching book. "Team Brass" is great: http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/036824/details.html
Music stand. A necessity for good posture.
Trumpet cleaning kit. See my trumpet cleaning guide.
Tuner. Not essential, but useful.
Trumpet stand. If you keep your trumpet out of its' case, you are more likely to pick it up and play it.