Trumpet Accessories Explained in Plain English

There are thousands of accessories made for the trumpet player.

Here's a list of the six we recommend, and why!

1. Mouthpiece Brush          

Regularly cleaning your mouthpiece is the best way to avoid unhealthy germs, build-up and odors.  Use a mouthpiece brush, soap, and warm water to keep your mouthpiece clean and free blowing - never let a dirty mouthpiece impede your sound! 

2. Valve Oil                        

Trumpet valves are machined to thousandths of an inch tolerance.  To make sure everything is moving smoothly, and to keep an airtight seal, the right lubricant is a must.  If the trumpet isn't played for a while, the oil can dry up and the instrument's valves may stick or seal improperly.  A few drops of valve oil can improve the speed and articulation of your play.

3. Polishing Cloth             

Most trumpets are lacquered at the factory.  Each time you play, however, dust and oils from your hands accumulate on the outside, and should be wiped off.  This is mainly a cosmetic issue, and almost any non-abrasive cloth will help.  There are specially formulated polishing cloths for silver plated or lacquer finishes.  If you're spending all this time learning to play, at least let your horn look good as well!

4. Trumpet Stand           

A trumpet stand keeps your instrument securely in an upright position, and ready to be picked up (and played) at a moment's notice. If you're playing with a band in public or in school, the trumpet stand is essential to safely hold your horn when you're not playing. One accidental drop of your trumpet can cost 5 to 10 times the price of the best stand!  When not in use, most trumpet stands fit securely in the bell while the instrument is in the case!

5. Music Stand                     

Sure, you can put music on the kitchen table and practice - but, you'll be hunched over, your neck will be constricted, and you'll have trouble blowing out a free and powerful sound.  (Some of this can even lead to back and neck pain or injury!)  A music stand is designed to adjust to the correct height and to hold the music securely at a comfortable angle.  Using music stand is a great way to avoid bad habits, develop proper posture, and improve your playing.  It's a 'must-have' at home!!

6. Tuner                        

The trumpet is tuned by moving the slides in and out. There's a lot to learn when beginning the trumpet, and unfortunately, many students master the notes and scales without developing an ear for pitch.  A chromatic tuner has a built-in microphone, and a small display with a needle that swings to the right or left if you play a note too sharp or flat.  Most tuners also display the note being played.  If you're playing alone, you may not notice that you're a little out of tune...but once you join a band or orchestra, your peers will let you know right away!  Practicing with a tuner will keep you on the straight and narrow, and help you to "hear" slight differences in pitch.