The trumpet is a wonderful and versatile instrument.  It can be used in all types of music as well as many different bands.  So how to learn it well? Here are some tips for learning to play the trumpet no matter what age you are.

Check out a few local music shops and ask about the different types. They might have used trumpets on sale for much less than new ones cost. Make sure to ask what key the trumpet is in — it’s best to get one in the key of B flat because they are more versatile. It’s fine to start off with an inexpensive version but make sure that all the slides and valves move properly and that it has no major dents.

You don’t even need your trumpet for the first step. Keep your lips closed tightly and gently press just the tip of your tongue between the centre of your lips. Start blowing out without opening your mouth and move your tongue away and you should hear a whispered “sp” sound from the air moving out of the small opening in your lips. That is the same motion you’ll need to do to play the trumpet. Practise doing this on your mouthpiece as often as you can to get better at it.

Instead of trying to learn simple songs, it’s best to start learning scales, which will give you the foundation you need in order to learn all skill levels of songs going forward. Scales are collections of notes that rise or fall, and learning and memorizing them will help you throughout your career as a trumpet player.

You’ll never learn a new instrument without consistently practising. It’s best to practise a little every day, even if it’s only for 30 minutes or so. Try to set goals for each practice session so that you don’t lose focus or get distracted. They can be simple goals, like repeating a scale 15 times or they can be more difficult, like learning a new chord progression or song.