Elwood

I have decided to put effort in to learning jazz trumpet, but I have no idea where to begin. The only instruments I currently play are bass and harmonica.
I do not know the first thing about trumpets, and would like recommendations on what and where to buy. I would like to find a decent pro horn to learn on and have for recording/stage use. I certainly don't mind used, so long as it still plays perfectly and looks good (a few dings and scratches aside). I am hoping to stay below $500.00, if that's possible.

What would those of you in the know recommend?

Ari

You´re exactly where I was. I played the guitar and the piano, and decided to learn jazz-trumpet, without ever touching a horn. I bought a yamaha YTR4335 used, with a couple of extra mouthpieces along. The price was 6-700$ here in Norway. Don´t know what those horns cost in the states. Anyway, Hope you get started soon. BTW, check out my sound clip, and post a comment if you want. http://www.trumpetmaster.com/vb//showthread.php?t=29885 (A beginner playing "solar", any comments?)

Manny Laureano

I have nothing to add to the conversation other than I think it's awesome that you guys picked up the trumpet as adults just because you want to and are looking forward to playing jazz. Too cool.

ML

gregc

Go for it. I saw am a guitar player who decided to pick up the trumpet a little over 2 years ago at the ripe old age of 47. 2 years later, I'm getting around, somewhere in the 'entry college' neighborhood. It's literally been a 'blast'! I'm gonna play this thing till the day I die~

Greg
ps: Get a horn and then get a teacher. The rest is all up to you*

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Greg Condemi

GordonH

I am a trumpet player who decided to take up the guitar so I could play rock and roll.
Two years later I can manage Heartbeat by Buddy Holly.

Good luck!

I suspect the trumpet is easier than the guitar or maybe I just have thick fingers.

Tootsall

I picked up trumpet at age 50 having the disadvantage of having zero musical training before that. You can do it and you have the advantage. After all, you've still got the better half of your life to go! (I'll assume you are younger than I was!) Be reasonable in your expectations and be prepared to put in some very diligent practice that you are going to have to fit around the other activities in your life (family, work, etc).

It's been said that it takes 5,000 hours of practice to get decent on trumpet. Start working. Oh... and get a teacher.

gregc

I'm gonna say that the guitar is way easier, ......IMO. The physical properties one needs to play the trumpet seems to be a tougher row to hoe. Of course, being top notch at either takes quite a lot of work.
it seems easier to lay off the guitar for a bit and come back to it. Lay off the trumpet for a spell and you're toast (or at least I am).

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Greg Condemi