lakerjazz

Hi, i am in high school and i would like to know if i should get a new trumpet. I have a beginner trumpet and that seems a little off my level. Should I go to an intermediate or jump straight to pro? Where can i try out some trumpets that arent made by the big brands?

trumpetmike

Purely personally I would avoid the intermediate instruments. They are a great way of making money for the manufacturers. If you go for an intermediate you are just saying that you will be spending more money later in life (probably only in a couple of years time).

The only time I find myself recommending an intermediate model is when a younger student has borrowed a starter instrument for the first year or two (very common over here) and is looking to purchase an instrument.

As for where to try instruments not made by the big brands, whereabouts are you and why do you want to try them?
There is a reason why Yamaha, Bach, Schilke, Getzen and Kanstul are as popular as they are - they make superb instruments. When you are a very competent player you might find that some of the smaller makes (Eclipse, Monette, Taylor, NYTC etc) make instruments that are better suited to you and your style of playing, but for the vast majority of players I would see no reason to avoid the big companies. I would also suggest that for most students, the difference between, say, a Xeno and an Eclipse would be less than the difference between "I have practised this week" and "I have not practised this week."
This is not meant to discourage you from looking at the smaller firms, but more to say that you shouldn't ignore the big firms.

lakerjazz

i definetely wouldnt mind a yamaha, bach, etc., but theyre are also specialty trumpets to look into, and i want to make sure i pick a good match for me. Basically, i want to look into all of them, though eclipse or taylor would be too elite and out of range. As for where i live, im pretty sure its obvious through my avatar.

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'50 Olds Recording-Los Angeles

Dave

Kanstul has their factory and showroom in Anaheim. Try them for sure! I'd also take a good look at the Yamaha 8335 RGS.

Brekelefuw

This is a really smart statement.

lakerjazz

thats a definite, thanks. Also, has anyone heard about this new trumpet out called the phaeton? I heard its excellent quality.

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'50 Olds Recording-Los Angeles

40cal

Are you taking lessons from a trumpet player? (not a band director, but a bona fide trumpeter)

If so, you should seek his/her input. If not, you should.

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rowuk

I see little advantage in an "exotic" trumpet so early in your career. The "perfect" match for you will change depending on YOUR playing opportunities. The lead or chorus book in a jazz band alone could be two very distinct directions affecting your choice of equipment.
A pro instrument like a Bach, Yamaha are less expensive than the specialty companies and still used by professional players of all types.
40CAL hit the nail on the head-if you feel that you have outgrown a beginners horn, you should be taking private lessons from a real trumpet teacher (one of my band directors WAS a real trumpet player and got me going!). They can/should guide you through this process.
All that being said, there is nothing wrong with playing everything (even extremely expensive horns) that you can get your hands on in the next couple of months. You will start to notice the differences very quickly. Price and playability are not necessarily related. A less expensive horn is not automatically worse than an expensive one otherwise Bach and Yamaha would be out of business instead of leading the pack in sales! Just do not buy anything without qualified outside help.

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lakerjazz

thank you all, and i will ask my teacher.

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'50 Olds Recording-Los Angeles

Vulgano Brother

When you try out trumpets, bring a friend whose ears you trust, and test them blindfolded, or with your eyes shut. Gauge for yourself how the trumpets sound and play, and have your friend there to hand you horns and listen out front. Try them two at a time, pick the winner each round, and narrow your choices down to a few instruments. Then, look at them, check the price, find out about the reputation the horns have in terms of longevity and general acceptance, and make your choice. Have fun choosing, and good luck choosing wisely!

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