how to put your trumpet together

1. Before you open your case, be sure that it is right side up.

2. Insert the mouthpiece into the lead pipe with a gentle twist. DO NOT hit or pop the mouthpiece into the lead pipe.

3. Oil valves when needed (consult your teacher for further instruction).

when you have finished playing

1. The moisture that accumulates inside the instrument is not “spit.” It is condensation from the player’s breath. Open the water key and blow air (don’t buzz) into the instrument. Empty the water key onto the floor, not on your chair or your neighbor’s shoe.

2. If your mouthpiece gets stuck while playing, DO NOT attempt to remove it yourself or have anyone else yank it out for you. Forcibly removing a stuck mouthpiece can do serious damage to your instrument.

3. The mouthpiece should be removed by your teacher or by the repair shop.

regular maintenance

1. To keep instrument clean, don’t eat candy or chew gum before playing and never while playing.

2. Do not let anyone else play your instrument. The trumpet is a delicate instrument, which must be handled carefully. If you must set it down during class, put it on a flat surface.

3. Clean your mouthpiece at least once a week by flushing it with warm (not hot) water.

4. Once a month, give your trumpet/cornet a bath. Take all slides out and the bottom caps off. Take the valves out one at a time and lay them in order on a towel. This will help you to put them back in correct order when you have finished. Put the slides and the body of the trumpet into warm soapy water. Rinse them off in clean lukewarm water. Wash the valves thoroughly, checking so that no lint, dirt, or other substance remains in the holes. Wipe the water off the outside of the horn. Don’t leave the instrument in the water too long or the finish may peel off. Put the trumpet back together. Oil the valves and grease the slides with slide grease.

5. Always keep your trumpet/cornet in its case when you are not playing it. Never put anything into your case that it was not designed to hold because the pressure from papers or music can damage the instrument.

supplies Needed

1. Trumpet/Cornet, in good working order

2. Valve Oil

3. Slide Grease

Trumpet Care Sheet PDF