Hi I have a Holton T-102 trumpet about 20 years old and it is producing a flat sound which is very noticeable in the higher register. I understand that to produce a sharper sound that the main tuning slide is pushed in however it is not adjustable as it in as far as it will go. Is there any way to tune a flat sounding trumpet ?

Thanks

Stephen

check it for leaks...

Can you play in tune on a different horn??

Hi, There is only one spit valve - on the main tuning slide - It looks fine but how can I check to see it is not letting any air through ? I have another starter trumpet and it sounds fine.

mpc gap can cause you trouble too...

What size mouthpiece are you using? Many times a mouthpiece that's too large or too open will go flat up high. If all the other things suggested don't help, the only fix may be to have the tuning slide shortened a little. Hopefully, the valve slides will be OK the length they are. This is an extreme measure to take, though, so I'd be sure there is no other problem causing the flatness first.

In order of priority:
Check with your teacher.
Have another experienced player test it.
Take it to a good tech.

Originally Posted by trumpetsplus

In order of priority:
Check with your teacher.
Have another experienced player test it.
Take it to a good tech.

Excellent advice. You could have leaking valves, slides, etc. These will make a horn play out of tune with itself.

More air support. I doubt it is a mechanical issue.

Originally Posted by Brekelefuw

More air support. I doubt it is a mechanical issue.

Originally Posted by SteRock

...I have another starter trumpet and it sounds fine.

.

Trumpets are built sharp. If he is going flat in the upper register it is almost guaranteed to be an air support issue. Maybe the other horn he tried has a different blow that gives more support in the upper register.