Getting Back Into Trumpet: Episode Two
January 24th, 2024 | 2 min read
Welcome to the second vlog in the Recover series, where Grant Golding guides trumpet players through the initial steps of reigniting their musical passion.
This episode is all about that pivotal moment – the first day you decide to take your trumpet out of its case after a break. It's a journey from silence to song, from pause to play. Read through this walkthrough and then check out the video for yourself and start your own trumpet recovery!
Cleaning and Tuning Your Trumpet
Grant's first piece of advice? Start with a clean slate, quite literally. Giving your trumpet a thorough cleaning isn't just about hygiene; it's symbolic of a fresh beginning. It's a way to reconnect with your instrument, preparing both it and yourself for the journey ahead.
Then, dive into the world of inspiration. Watch videos that reignite your passion for music – be it a world-class band, an orchestral masterpiece, or even a pop song with a killer horn section. Finding what excites you about music is crucial at this stage. It's the spark that lights the fire of your comeback.
Using a Practice Mute and Backing Tracks
Grant highlights the importance of using a practice mute, especially in the early stages. It's not just about muting the sound; it's about building confidence, free from the fear of judgment. Pair this with backing tracks – from simple melodies for beginners to intricate orchestral pieces for advanced players – and you've got a recipe for effective, enjoyable practice.
Perfect Posture and Mindful Practice
Posture is next on the agenda. Standing straight, keeping the wrists aligned, and holding the trumpet comfortably – these are the pillars of a good playing stance. Take cues from professionals like Alison Balsom, who exemplifies perfect posture. Grant also introduces the concept of the instrument as a 'home setting' – a comfortable, natural position that should feel like second nature.
A Therapeutic Approach
Playing the trumpet is likened to a form of musical yoga. It's therapeutic, combining deep breathing and physical relaxation with the vibration of music. This approach not only benefits your playing but also your overall well-being.
Grant suggests an ambient backing track exercise for this week's practice. Start with the central note and let your creativity flow. This exercise isn't about precision; it's about letting air flow through the instrument and feeling the movement and vibration as you play.
Core Trumpet Techniques: Flutter Tongue and Light Touch
Finally, Grant introduces two core techniques to focus on: flutter tonguing and practicing with a light touch. These techniques are foundational and will recur throughout the series, helping to build a robust and versatile playing style.
Now that you know what to expect, check out the full video of this Getting Back Into Trumpet episode:
The Journey Begins
So, as you embark on this journey of rediscovery, remember: start clean, find your inspiration, practice posture and mindfulness, and embrace the therapeutic nature of trumpet playing. This is just the beginning and every note counts.
- Looking for more beginner trumpet tips? The How to Play Trumpet area is packed with ideas and inspiration.
- The pTrumpet hyTech is ideal for returning players. Read this inspirational story of how big an impact a lightweight trumpet can make.
- You can find even more learning tips on the Teaching Resources page.
Adam is the Content Manager at pBone Music. This should mean that he’s the ideal person to write about himself, but he finds boasting in the third person a little awkward. He honed his word wizardry with a degree in English Language and Literature at the University of Leeds. He has since written copy for clients and businesses across the land, from awards to something beginning with “z”. He also spent a number of years as a musician. He has written pop songs and even jingles for kids, performed more first dances at weddings than you could shake a pBuzz at, and once played a gig for a pie company at The Etihad Stadium in Manchester. When he’s not reminiscing about those good old days, you might find Adam enjoying the football (although as an Everton fan, that can be difficult). He also loves spending time with his partner, Jen, and his family and friends, and sincerely hopes they feel the same way.
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