Trumpet or Cornet?

One choice that first time buyers are forced to make is to choose between playing on a trumpet or a cornet. Really, it does not matter initially, but there are a few good reasons to consider a cornet, especially if the person who will be playing the instrument is on the small side. A cornet is more compact than a trumpet, so it's usually easier to reach everything for people with small hands. Also, many times a cornet is lighter. These are only a few brief physical differences, but for a more in depth discussion of the differences between a trumpet and a cornet, look at the page, Trumpets vs. Cornets

Many band and orchestra directors have a preference that they want students to get. In this case, it is best to use the instrument that the director recommends.

New or Used

When buying used trumpets, check with your director to see if there are any students who have dropped out of the class who might sell their trumpet. This way, the director can tell you if the instrument is in good shape. If there are no instruments available in this fashion, local pawn shops might be a good idea to look into, but you should be prepared and know what to look for when you walk in the door. You should bring with you a bottle of valve oil and slide grease to check everything out. First, inspect the quality of the brass. Are there many dents? A few are fine, but make sure that the bell, leadpipe and valve casings are free from any major dents. Small dents are fine, but large ones will noticeably make the instrument sound different. Next, oil the valves, as outlined in Trumpet Maintenance. After oiling, make sure that all of the valves are free flowing, and that there is no friction. If there is any, don't bother with the instrument, because repairing it will probably cost as much as the instrument. Next, make sure that all of the slides can move. If some don't want to come out, apply some slide grease and a little pressure. It's usually OK if the slides are tight, but they must be able to move. (One exception is the third valve, which should move easily). Check to make sure that there is a finger ring on the third valve slide that allows the player to put his or her third finger in to adjust the slide while playing. At this point, the condition of the finish isn't essential--it is more for looks than anything else. Very little difference can be heard in the sound quality between a good finish and a poor one. Make sure that all of the soldered joints still are soldered, and have not broken free. Finally, make sure that the instrument fits well in the musician's hands. Make sure that he or she can reach everything, and move the valves with ease. As far as price goes, a good used trumpet can be found for between $150 and $250. For anything less than that price range, double check the instument. Good deals can be found, but that can often signal that something is wrong.