Manny Laureano

I feel as though this thread is about two unrelated subjects: 1)transposition and 2)acclimating to playing a C trumpet.

Since I learned all my transpositions on the Bb I don't believe one has to do with the other.

I'm also not sure what you're anticipating as far as sound is concerned on the C trumpet since most people try to get their C trumpets to sound as much like the Bb as possible. It sounds to me as though you have a number oof preconceived notions regarding playing the C vs. Bb.

I don't try to get more out of a horn than it's capable of giving me. It's good to have a concept of fullness, richness on any horn and the C is no exception. I don't know whether your mouthpiece/horn combo is well matched and that may be an issue.

Yes, playing the C often is always a good idea but I assume you got the horn for the same reason I did years ago, because you need it. So, whatever your playing situations dictate, go ahead and use it. Split your time and have fun with the horn. I assume when you mean transposition that now you're going to focus on playing down a step so you can play Bb parts on the C. You certainly didn't have to wait to get a C in order to do that.

I think that most people will tell you to have the sound of the Bb in your head when you play the C. I agree with that.

ML