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1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 92 (from laksa182)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa092.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet","crawl_time":1775417538,"first_indexed_time":1507473473,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,wikihow!www,\/Play-the-Trumpet s443","src_root_hash":"12431216878206919092","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"How to Play the Trumpet (with Pictures) - wikiHow","meta_descriptions":["The trumpet is a popular brass instrument for jazz, classical, and even rock players. Like all instruments, mastering the trumpet takes time, practice and dedication. Start by learning the proper mouth positioning to produce clean notes...."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Download Article\nDownload Article\nUsing the Right Lip Position\n|\nHolding the Trumpet\n|\nPlaying Your First Notes\n|\nAdvancing Your Skills\n|\nVideo\n|\nExpert Interview\n|\nQ&A\n|\nTips\nThe trumpet is a popular brass instrument for jazz, classical, and even rock players. Like all instruments, mastering the trumpet takes time, practice and dedication. Start by learning the proper mouth positioning to produce clean notes. Then play through your first scales by learning the different valve combinations. Once you've started improving, advance your playing by learning to read music, playing songs, and mixing advanced techniques into your skill set.\nTrumpet Fundamentals for Beginners\nTrumpet player Carter Miller says to start by perfecting your\nembouchure\n, which is the way you position your mouth on the instrument. He suggests taking the mouthpiece off the trumpet to practice lip placement and getting a clean sound when you\nblow into it\n. Then, move on to learning how to play your first notes.\nMaking a sound on a trumpet requires more than just blowing air into it. Use the proper lip technique for the best tone. Start by saying the letter M, and holding your lips together right when they touch each other. Then tighten the corners of your mouth. This is the starting mouth position for trumpet playing.\n[1]\nDon’t pucker your lips. Keep your mouth straight across.\nKeep your jaw loose and don’t clench your teeth.\nThis buzzing produces the trumpet sound. Use your diaphragm and push air through your lips while keeping them clenched. Produce a buzzing sound as your lips vibrate.\n[2]\nImagine the noise you’d make if you were imitating a mosquito buzzing. This is the sound you want.\nDon’t change your lip position like you would when you blow air out. Keep your lips together so they vibrate and buzz.\nAvoid puffing out your cheeks.\nLick your lips first if you’re having trouble getting this sound. It won’t work as well with dry lips.\nAdvertisement\nWhen you’ve gotten comfortable buzzing your lips, get a feel for blowing into the trumpet mouthpiece. Take the mouthpiece and press it against your lips gently. Maintain the same mouth position as before. Then buzz your lips into the mouthpiece.\nThe mouthpiece won't produce much sound by itself, so don't worry if notes don't sound good yet.\nThe mouthpiece detaches easily. Just twist it loose a bit while pulling gently and it will come right out. Do the same to put it back in. Don't hit it in or it may get stuck.\nAdvertisement\nWhen playing a trumpet, use your left hand to\nhold the instrument\nand your right hand to work the valves. Insert your thumb into the loop attached to the first trumpet valve closest to the mouthpiece. Then wrap your index and middle fingers around the pipe section.\n[3]\nPut your pinky through the loop behind the pipes.\n[4]\nUse a firm but gentle grip. Don’t squeeze the trumpet.\nThen put your index, middle, and ring finger on the first, second, and third valves, respectively. Rest your pinky on the pinky ring behind the valves. Don't stick your pinky far in, just rest it.\n[5]\nUse a light grip with this hand. Support the trumpet with your left hand, and only use the right hand to control the valves.\nDon’t press the trumpet onto your lips or you won’t be able to work your lips properly. Hold the trumpet firmly and touch the mouthpiece to your lips gently. Don’t press down.\n[6]\n[7]\nKeep your shoulders relaxed while holding the trumpet up.\nIf you try to play and the trumpet sound is weak or nonexistent, your lips may be too far away. Bring the mouthpiece closer to your lips and try again.\nAdvertisement\n[8]\nTake a deep breath before starting. Make the same lip position as before, hold the trumpet gently against your mouth, and buzz your lips. On a typical (B flat) trumpet, this produces a C note. Hold the note as long as you can before stopping to take a breath.\n[9]\nIf the sound is weak, you may be puckering your lips instead of buzzing them. Reset your mouth position and try again.\nThis first note will probably sound rough and choppy. Don’t worry, you’re just starting out. Keep practicing to improve your playing.\nPlaying without pressing down any valves is called open position.\nAnother note you can play in open position is a G. Play this by buzzing your lips harder. Push more air out so your lips vibrate faster. This raises the pitch of the note and produces a G.\n[10]\nPlay a C and G right after one another to hear the differences between the two. Pay attention to the feeling when you vibrate your lips for each note. Build muscle memory so you can do both without thinking.\nAfter mastering your first two notes in open position, move on to playing notes with fingering positions. For a D note, blow with the same force as you did for a C note and press down the first and third valves.\n[11]\n[12]\nThe next whole note above D is E. Play this note by pressing the first and second valves and blowing with the same force as you did for a C note.\n[13]\n[14]\nThe final note you can produce with the same vibration level as a C note is an F. Hold down just the first valve and blow for this note.\n[15]\n[16]\nFor the next two notes, blow through the trumpet with the same force you use for a\nG note\n. For an A note, press down the first and second valves while using a G note force.\n[17]\nPress down the second valve for a\nB note\n.\nThe final natural note on a trumpet is a B (though you can play different octaves).  Blow with the same force you would for a G, then press only the second valve for this note.\n[18]\nAfter playing each note individually, start joining them together. Start on the C and work your way up to the B, playing each note in between. Stop to take a breath between each note at first. Then work on making the pattern smoother, with less of a pause in between.\n[19]\nWhen you’ve gotten good at working up the scale, try playing it backwards. Start at B and work back down to C.\nThen mix the pattern up. Play the notes in different order. See which note combinations sound good and make up your own tunes.\nSharps and flats are halfway between whole notes in the musical alphabet. Different blowing patterns and finger positions produce flats and sharps. Learn these patterns to widen your playing.\n[20]\nIn musical notation, a ♯ sign means sharp, ♭ means flat and ♮means natural.\nFor a C# (D♭), press down all three valves. For a D# (E♭), press down the second and third valves. For F# (G♭), press down the middle valve only. Use a C lip vibration for all three.\nFor a G# (A♭), press down valves two and three. For A# (B♭), press the first valve. Use G lip vibration for both.\nAdvertisement\nLearn to\nread music\n.\nReading music will expand your musical knowledge and make it much easier to learn songs. Find a good guide online or work with a teacher to develop music reading skills. Then practice what you’ve read by playing it on your trumpet.\n[21]\nThere are many resources online that teach you how to read music.\nFor more instruction, try taking lessons from a local music store or school.\nAfter you’ve learned individual notes and scales, the best way to progress is putting those notes together to play songs. Look online for some easy songs and melodies to practice playing different notes in order. Then move on to more difficult songs like jazz and blues pieces.\n[22]\nSome popular, easy tunes for trumpet are \"Happy Birthday\", \"Ode to Joy\", \"Kum Ba Yah\", and \"Frère Jacques\".\nSongs don’t need to have trumpet parts for you to play them. Since you know how to form different notes, you can easily translate music onto the trumpet if you know the notes for the song.\nScreeching, or screaming, is an advanced technique where players jump several octaves in a single breath. Professional players usually use this technique in solos. Bring your playing to the next level by working on this technique.\nFor a screech, vibrate your lips very quickly and push out a lot of air. This drives very\nhigh notes\nfrom the trumpet.\nFirst try to drive these high-pitched sounds from the trumpet, then work on controlling them better.\nAs with any instrument, learn from the greats if you want to be a good trumpet player. Go back and listen to some of the best trumpet players in history to hear how they used the instrument. Luckily, most of this music is available on the internet for free, so tracking it down is easy.\n[23]\nSome of the greatest trumpet players are Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, and Dizzy Gillespie. Listen to their recordings to hear examples of expert playing.\nAlso learn about how these players practiced and played. You might pick up some habits that will improve your playing.\nJazz has especially good trumpet playing. If you aren’t into it already, try listening to some classic jazz records for more great playing.\nAdvertisement\nSearch\nAdd New Question\nQuestion\nHow do I clean my spit valve?\nCommunity Answer\nLocate the spit valve release lever or button at the end of your trumpet.  Hold it down and give a strong blow through the mouthpiece, and it should come right out.\nQuestion\nMy trumpet teacher tells me that my buzz is correct, but for some reason the notes I play are flat and too low. What can I do?\nCommunity Answer\nUsually, if your notes are flat, you have to adjust the trumpet's main slide. Use a tuner and adjust the slide until your note is no longer flat.\nQuestion\nHow do I blow in the trumpet?\nCommunity Answer\nKeep your tongue pushed against the bottom of your mouth. The tip of your tongue should be touching the back of your bottom teeth. Make a buzzing noise.\nSee more answers\nAsk a Question\n200 characters left\nInclude your email address to get a message when this question is answered.\nSubmit\nAdvertisement\nDid this article help you?\nSay thanks with a small tip.\n$1\n$3\n$5\nLeave a Tip\nSupport our mission to help everyone in the world learn how to do anything.\nKeep your shoulders and upper body relaxed when you play. If you're tense, you won't be able to play with much power.\nThanks\nLearning an instrument can be frustrating. Don't get discouraged. Commit to practicing regularly and you'll start noticing improvement.\nThanks\nRemember to practice as much as you can. Even a few minutes every day will show improvement after a while.\nThanks\nShow More Tips\nTips from our Readers\nAlways make sure to have good posture while playing. If sitting down, sit up straight on the edge of your chair with both feet flat on the floor. If standing, make sure you are standing up tall and not slouching.\nRest as much as you practice. Especially when first starting, remember to rest for as long as you played. Use the timer on your phone to help.\nThanks for submitting a tip for review!\nAdvertisement\nThanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about playing the trumpet, check out our in-depth\ninterview\nwith\nCarter Miller\n.\nReferences\nAbout This Article\nArticle Summary\nX\nTo play the trumpet, start by practicing the buzzing sound you'll need to make by squeezing your lips together, sticking your tongue out a little bit, and vibrating your lips like you're spitting something out. Once you've got the buzzing sound down, hold the trumpet so the mouthpiece is resting on your lips and your fingers are on the valves. To play notes, blow into the mouthpiece and make the buzzing sound while pressing down on the valves. Experiment by pressing down on different combinations of valves, which will allow you to play different notes.\nIf you want to learn how to play scales and read sheet music, keep reading the article!\nDid this summary help you?\nThanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 918,804 times.\nReader Success Stories\nBrian Bushell\nSep 29, 2016\n\"I am learning to play soprano sax, and love to play trumpet music on it, as both are Bb instruments.  I have\n...\"\nmore\nDid this article help you?","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to Content](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#breadcrumb_1)\n\n[Quizzes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Quizzes)\n\n- [PRO](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Pro)\n  [Courses Hot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Course\/Explore)   [Guides](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Guides)   [Tech Help Pro](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Tech-Help-Pro)   [Expert Videos](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Videos-wikiHowPro)   [About wikiHow Pro](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Pro)   [Upgrade](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#wh-dialog-pro)\n- [QUIZZES](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Quizzes)\n  [All Quizzes Hot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Quizzes)   [Love Quizzes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Love-Quizzes)   [Personality Quizzes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Personality-Quizzes)   [Trivia Quizzes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Trivia-Quizzes)   [Taylor Swift Quizzes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Taylor-Swift-Quizzes)\n- 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Learn why people **trust wikiHow**](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience)\n\n- [Categories](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Special:CategoryListing \"Special:CategoryListing\")\n- [Arts and Entertainment](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Arts-and-Entertainment \"Category:Arts and Entertainment\")\n- [Music](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Music \"Category:Music\")\n- [Musical Instruments](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Musical-Instruments \"Category:Musical Instruments\")\n- [Trumpet and Cornet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Trumpet-and-Cornet \"Category:Trumpet and Cornet\")\n# [How to Play the Trumpet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n**Co-authored by** [Carter Miller](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Carter-Miller)\n\n[Last Updated: March 14, 2026](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)  [Fact Checked](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n- [Using the Right Lip Position](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#Using-the-Right-Lip-Position)\n- [Holding the Trumpet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#Holding-the-Trumpet)\n- [Playing Your First Notes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#Playing-Your-First-Notes)\n- [Advancing Your Skills](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#Advancing-Your-Skills)\n- [Video](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#Video)\n- [Expert Interview](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#expertinterview)\n- [Q\\&A](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#qa_headline)\n- [Tips](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#tips)\n\n\\|Show more\n\n\\|Show less\n\n[ARTICLE](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#steps_1)\n\n[VIDEO](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#Video)\n\nX\n\nThis article was co-authored by [Carter Miller](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Carter-Miller). Carter Miller is a trumpet player and YouTube creator. He is known for taking pop songs and transcribing them for the trumpet. He uploads step-by-step tutorials and full trumpet arrangements for his pieces, and posts videos of him playing as well. He has over 12.2k followers on YouTube, with some of his most popular covers garnering over 136k views including Industry Baby by Lil Nas X and Jack Harlow, Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars, and Love Yourself by Justin Bieber.   \n  \n There are [10 references](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#References) cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.   \n  \n This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.   \n  \n This article has been viewed 918,804 times.\n\nThe trumpet is a popular brass instrument for jazz, classical, and even rock players. Like all instruments, mastering the trumpet takes time, practice and dedication. Start by learning the proper mouth positioning to produce clean notes. Then play through your first scales by learning the different valve combinations. Once you've started improving, advance your playing by learning to read music, playing songs, and mixing advanced techniques into your skill set.\n\n## Trumpet Fundamentals for Beginners\nTrumpet player Carter Miller says to start by perfecting your [embouchure](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Develop-Embouchure-on-Trumpet \"Develop Embouchure on Trumpet\"), which is the way you position your mouth on the instrument. He suggests taking the mouthpiece off the trumpet to practice lip placement and getting a clean sound when you [blow into it](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Blow-into-a-Trumpet \"Blow into a Trumpet\"). Then, move on to learning how to play your first notes.\n## Steps\nPart 1\n\nPart 1 of 4:\n\n### Using the Right Lip Position\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n1. [![Step 1 Press your lips together and keep the corners of your mouth tight.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4e\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-1-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-1-Version-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-1-Version-8.jpg)\n   1\n   **Press your lips together and keep the corners of your mouth tight.** Making a sound on a trumpet requires more than just blowing air into it. Use the proper lip technique for the best tone. Start by saying the letter M, and holding your lips together right when they touch each other. Then tighten the corners of your mouth. This is the starting mouth position for trumpet playing.[\\[1\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-1) X Research source\n   \n   - Don’t pucker your lips. Keep your mouth straight across.\n   - Keep your jaw loose and don’t clench your teeth.\n2. [![Step 2 Push air through your lips to make a buzzing sound.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/19\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-2-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-2-Version-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-2-Version-8.jpg)\n   2\n   **Push air through your lips to make a buzzing sound.** This buzzing produces the trumpet sound. Use your diaphragm and push air through your lips while keeping them clenched. Produce a buzzing sound as your lips vibrate.[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-2) X Research source\n   \n   - Imagine the noise you’d make if you were imitating a mosquito buzzing. This is the sound you want.\n   - Don’t change your lip position like you would when you blow air out. Keep your lips together so they vibrate and buzz.\n   - Avoid puffing out your cheeks.\n   - Lick your lips first if you’re having trouble getting this sound. It won’t work as well with dry lips.\n   Advertisement\n3. [![Step 3 Blow into the mouthpiece when it’s not in the trumpet.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/82\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-3-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-3-Version-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-3-Version-8.jpg)\n   3\n   **Blow into the mouthpiece when it’s not in the trumpet.** When you’ve gotten comfortable buzzing your lips, get a feel for blowing into the trumpet mouthpiece. Take the mouthpiece and press it against your lips gently. Maintain the same mouth position as before. Then buzz your lips into the mouthpiece.\n   \n   - The mouthpiece won't produce much sound by itself, so don't worry if notes don't sound good yet.\n   - The mouthpiece detaches easily. Just twist it loose a bit while pulling gently and it will come right out. Do the same to put it back in. Don't hit it in or it may get stuck.\n\nPart 2\n\nPart 2 of 4:\n\n### Holding the Trumpet\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n1. [![Step 1 Wrap your left hand around the trumpet body.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b9\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-4-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-4-Version-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-4-Version-8.jpg)\n   1\n   **Wrap your left hand around the trumpet body.** When playing a trumpet, use your left hand to [hold the instrument](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Hold-a-Trumpet \"Hold a Trumpet\") and your right hand to work the valves. Insert your thumb into the loop attached to the first trumpet valve closest to the mouthpiece. Then wrap your index and middle fingers around the pipe section.[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-3)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Carter Miller](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Carter_Miller_.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png)Carter Miller Trumpet Player](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Carter-Miller) Expert Interview  Put your pinky through the loop behind the pipes.[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-4) X Research source\n   \n   - Use a firm but gentle grip. Don’t squeeze the trumpet.\n2. [![Step 2 Place your right hand along the trumpet valves.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1e\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-5-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-5-Version-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-5-Version-8.jpg)\n   2\n   **Place your right hand along the trumpet valves.** Then put your index, middle, and ring finger on the first, second, and third valves, respectively. Rest your pinky on the pinky ring behind the valves. Don't stick your pinky far in, just rest it.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-5) X Research source\n   \n   - Use a light grip with this hand. Support the trumpet with your left hand, and only use the right hand to control the valves.\n3. [![Step 3 Hold the trumpet gently against your lips.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/35\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-6-Version-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-6-Version-7.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-6-Version-7.jpg)\n   3\n   **Hold the trumpet gently against your lips.** Don’t press the trumpet onto your lips or you won’t be able to work your lips properly. Hold the trumpet firmly and touch the mouthpiece to your lips gently. Don’t press down.[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-6)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Carter Miller](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Carter_Miller_.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png)Carter Miller Trumpet Player](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Carter-Miller) Expert Interview [\\[7\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-7) X Research source\n   \n   - Keep your shoulders relaxed while holding the trumpet up.\n   - If you try to play and the trumpet sound is weak or nonexistent, your lips may be too far away. Bring the mouthpiece closer to your lips and try again.\n\nPart 3\n\nPart 3 of 4:\n\n### Playing Your First Notes\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n1. [![Step 1 Blow into the trumpet without pressing any valves for a C note.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/44\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg)\n   1\n   **Blow into the trumpet without pressing any valves for a C note.**[\\[8\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-8)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Carter Miller](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Carter_Miller_.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png)Carter Miller Trumpet Player](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Carter-Miller) Expert Interview  Take a deep breath before starting. Make the same lip position as before, hold the trumpet gently against your mouth, and buzz your lips. On a typical (B flat) trumpet, this produces a C note. Hold the note as long as you can before stopping to take a breath.[\\[9\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-9) X Research source\n   \n   - If the sound is weak, you may be puckering your lips instead of buzzing them. Reset your mouth position and try again.\n   - This first note will probably sound rough and choppy. Don’t worry, you’re just starting out. Keep practicing to improve your playing.\n   - Playing without pressing down any valves is called open position.\n2. [![Step 2 Vibrate your lips faster to play a G note.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4d\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-8-Version-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-8-Version-10.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-8-Version-10.jpg)\n   2\n   **Vibrate your lips faster to play a G note.** Another note you can play in open position is a G. Play this by buzzing your lips harder. Push more air out so your lips vibrate faster. This raises the pitch of the note and produces a G.[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-10) X Research source\n   \n   - Play a C and G right after one another to hear the differences between the two. Pay attention to the feeling when you vibrate your lips for each note. Build muscle memory so you can do both without thinking.\n3. [![Step 3 Press down the first and third valves for a D note.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3d\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg)\n   3\n   **Press down the first and third valves for a D note.** After mastering your first two notes in open position, move on to playing notes with fingering positions. For a D note, blow with the same force as you did for a C note and press down the first and third valves.[\\[11\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-11)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Carter Miller](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Carter_Miller_.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png)Carter Miller Trumpet Player](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Carter-Miller) Expert Interview [\\[12\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-12) X Research source\n4. [![Step 4 Play an E note by pressing the first and second valves.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/96\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-10-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-10-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-10-Version-9.jpg)\n   4\n   **Play an E note by pressing the first and second valves.** The next whole note above D is E. Play this note by pressing the first and second valves and blowing with the same force as you did for a C note.[\\[13\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-13)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Carter Miller](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Carter_Miller_.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png)Carter Miller Trumpet Player](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Carter-Miller) Expert Interview [\\[14\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-14) X Research source\n5. [![Step 5 Hold down the first valve for an F note.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/30\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-11-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-11-Version-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-11-Version-8.jpg)\n   5\n   **Hold down the first valve for an F note.** The final note you can produce with the same vibration level as a C note is an F. Hold down just the first valve and blow for this note.[\\[15\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-15)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Carter Miller](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Carter_Miller_.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png)Carter Miller Trumpet Player](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Carter-Miller) Expert Interview [\\[16\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-16) X Research source\n6. [![Step 6 Vibrate your lips more for an A note.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/de\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-12-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-12-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-12-Version-9.jpg)\n   6\n   **Vibrate your lips more for an A note.** For the next two notes, blow through the trumpet with the same force you use for a [G note](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-a-G-Chromatic-Scale-on-Trumpet \"Play a G Chromatic Scale on Trumpet\"). For an A note, press down the first and second valves while using a G note force.[\\[17\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-17) X Research source\n7. [![Step 7 Press down the...](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/01\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-13-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-13-Version-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-13-Version-8.jpg)\n   7\n   **Press down the second valve for a [**B note**](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-B-Flat-Scale-on-a-Trumpet \"Play the B Flat Scale on a Trumpet\").** The final natural note on a trumpet is a B (though you can play different octaves). Blow with the same force you would for a G, then press only the second valve for this note.[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-18) X Research source\n8. [![Step 8 Play all seven notes in order.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f8\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-14-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-14-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-14-Version-9.jpg)\n   8\n   **Play all seven notes in order.** After playing each note individually, start joining them together. Start on the C and work your way up to the B, playing each note in between. Stop to take a breath between each note at first. Then work on making the pattern smoother, with less of a pause in between.[\\[19\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-19) X Research source\n   \n   - When you’ve gotten good at working up the scale, try playing it backwards. Start at B and work back down to C.\n   - Then mix the pattern up. Play the notes in different order. See which note combinations sound good and make up your own tunes.\n9. [![Step 9 Mix flat and sharp notes into your playing.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3c\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-15-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-15-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-15-Version-9.jpg)\n   9\n   **Mix flat and sharp notes into your playing.** Sharps and flats are halfway between whole notes in the musical alphabet. Different blowing patterns and finger positions produce flats and sharps. Learn these patterns to widen your playing.[\\[20\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-20) X Research source\n   \n   - In musical notation, a ♯ sign means sharp, ♭ means flat and ♮means natural.\n   - For a C\\# (D♭), press down all three valves. For a D\\# (E♭), press down the second and third valves. For F\\# (G♭), press down the middle valve only. Use a C lip vibration for all three.\n   - For a G\\# (A♭), press down valves two and three. For A\\# (B♭), press the first valve. Use G lip vibration for both.\n\nPart 4\n\nPart 4 of 4:\n\n### Advancing Your Skills\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n1. [![Step 1 Learn to read...](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/69\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-16-Version-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-16-Version-7.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-16-Version-7.jpg)\n   1\n   **Learn to [**read music**](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Read-Music \"Read Music\").** Reading music will expand your musical knowledge and make it much easier to learn songs. Find a good guide online or work with a teacher to develop music reading skills. Then practice what you’ve read by playing it on your trumpet.[\\[21\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-21) X Research source\n   \n   - There are many resources online that teach you how to read music.\n   - For more instruction, try taking lessons from a local music store or school.\n2. [![Step 2 Find easy songs to play.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/68\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-17-Version-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-17-Version-7.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-17-Version-7.jpg)\n   2\n   **Find easy songs to play.** After you’ve learned individual notes and scales, the best way to progress is putting those notes together to play songs. Look online for some easy songs and melodies to practice playing different notes in order. Then move on to more difficult songs like jazz and blues pieces.[\\[22\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-22) X Research source\n   \n   - Some popular, easy tunes for trumpet are \"Happy Birthday\", \"Ode to Joy\", \"Kum Ba Yah\", and \"Frère Jacques\".\n   - Songs don’t need to have trumpet parts for you to play them. Since you know how to form different notes, you can easily translate music onto the trumpet if you know the notes for the song.\n3. [![Step 3 Practice screeching your notes.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/25\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-18-Version-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-18-Version-7.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-18-Version-7.jpg)\n   3\n   **Practice **screeching** your notes.** Screeching, or screaming, is an advanced technique where players jump several octaves in a single breath. Professional players usually use this technique in solos. Bring your playing to the next level by working on this technique.\n   \n   - For a screech, vibrate your lips very quickly and push out a lot of air. This drives very [high notes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-High-Notes-on-the-Trumpet \"Play High Notes on the Trumpet\") from the trumpet.\n   - First try to drive these high-pitched sounds from the trumpet, then work on controlling them better.\n4. [![Step 4 Listen to great trumpet players for inspiration.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-19.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-19.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-19.jpg)\n   4\n   **Listen to great trumpet players for inspiration.** As with any instrument, learn from the greats if you want to be a good trumpet player. Go back and listen to some of the best trumpet players in history to hear how they used the instrument. Luckily, most of this music is available on the internet for free, so tracking it down is easy.[\\[23\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-23) X Research source\n   \n   - Some of the greatest trumpet players are Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, and Dizzy Gillespie. Listen to their recordings to hear examples of expert playing.\n   - Also learn about how these players practiced and played. You might pick up some habits that will improve your playing.\n   - Jazz has especially good trumpet playing. If you aren’t into it already, try listening to some classic jazz records for more great playing.\n\n## Community Q\\&A\nSearch\n\n[Add New Question]()\n\n- Question\n  \n  How do I clean my spit valve?\n  \n  ![Community Answer](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f2\/CommunityAvatar3.png\/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar3.png)\n  \n  Community Answer\n  \n  Locate the spit valve release lever or button at the end of your trumpet. Hold it down and give a strong blow through the mouthpiece, and it should come right out.\n  \n  **Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.**  \n   **Thank you for your feedback.**  \n    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \\$1 helps us in our mission.  [Support wikiHow](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Contribute)\n  \n  [Yes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet) [No](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n  \n  [Not Helpful 17](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet) [Helpful 70](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n- Question\n  \n  My trumpet teacher tells me that my buzz is correct, but for some reason the notes I play are flat and too low. What can I do?\n  \n  ![Community Answer](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0a\/CommunityAvatar1.png\/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar1.png)\n  \n  Community Answer\n  \n  Usually, if your notes are flat, you have to adjust the trumpet's main slide. Use a tuner and adjust the slide until your note is no longer flat.\n  \n  **Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.**  \n   **Thank you for your feedback.**  \n    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \\$1 helps us in our mission.  [Support wikiHow](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Contribute)\n  \n  [Yes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet) [No](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n  \n  [Not Helpful 24](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet) [Helpful 61](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n- Question\n  \n  How do I blow in the trumpet?\n  \n  ![Community Answer](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/CommunityAvatar4.png\/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar4.png)\n  \n  Community Answer\n  \n  Keep your tongue pushed against the bottom of your mouth. The tip of your tongue should be touching the back of your bottom teeth. Make a buzzing noise.\n  \n  **Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.**  \n   **Thank you for your feedback.**  \n    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \\$1 helps us in our mission.  [Support wikiHow](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Contribute)\n  \n  [Yes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet) [No](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n  \n  [Not Helpful 21](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet) [Helpful 49](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n[See more answers](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Questions\/Play-the-Trumpet#offset=3)\n\nAsk a Question\n\n200 characters left\n\nInclude your email address to get a message when this question is answered.\n\n[Submit]()\n\nAdvertisement\n\n**Did this article help you?** Say thanks with a small tip.\n\n![icon](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/tipjar\/tipjar_logo.svg)\n\n\\$1\n\n\\$3\n\n\\$5\n\nLeave a Tip\n\n*Support our mission to help everyone in the world learn how to do anything.*\n\n## Video\n[Read Video Transcript](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n## Reader Videos\n## Tips\n- Keep your shoulders and upper body relaxed when you play. If you're tense, you won't be able to play with much power.\n  Thanks\n  \n  [Helpful 9](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)   [Not Helpful 3](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n- Learning an instrument can be frustrating. Don't get discouraged. Commit to practicing regularly and you'll start noticing improvement.\n  Thanks\n  \n  [Helpful 10](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)   [Not Helpful 4](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n- Remember to practice as much as you can. Even a few minutes every day will show improvement after a while.\n  Thanks\n  \n  [Helpful 5](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)   [Not Helpful 2](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n[Show More Tips](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n#### Tips from our Readers ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/tipsandwarnings\/images\/question.svg)\nThe advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.\n\n- Always make sure to have good posture while playing. If sitting down, sit up straight on the edge of your chair with both feet flat on the floor. If standing, make sure you are standing up tall and not slouching.\n- Rest as much as you practice. Especially when first starting, remember to rest for as long as you played. Use the timer on your phone to help.\n\nSubmit a Tip\n\nAll tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published\n\nName\n\nPlease provide your name and last initial\n\n[Submit](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\nThanks for submitting a tip for review\\!\n\nAdvertisement\n\n## You Might Also Like\n[![Blow into a Trumpet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f8\/Blow-into-a-Trumpet-Step-8.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Blow-into-a-Trumpet-Step-8.jpg.webp) How to Blow into a Trumpet ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f8\/Blow-into-a-Trumpet-Step-8.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Blow-into-a-Trumpet-Step-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Blow-into-a-Trumpet)\n\n[![Play High Notes on the Trumpet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/57\/Play-High-Notes-on-the-Trumpet-Step-18.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Play-High-Notes-on-the-Trumpet-Step-18.jpg.webp) How to Play High Notes on the Trumpet 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Horn](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/89\/Play-the-French-Horn-Step-22-Version-3.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Play-the-French-Horn-Step-22-Version-3.jpg.webp) How to Play the French Horn ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/89\/Play-the-French-Horn-Step-22-Version-3.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Play-the-French-Horn-Step-22-Version-3.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-French-Horn)\n\n[![Play the B Flat Scale on a Trumpet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Play-the-B-Flat-Scale-on-a-Trumpet-Step-10.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Play-the-B-Flat-Scale-on-a-Trumpet-Step-10.jpg.webp) How to Play the B Flat Scale on a Trumpet ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Play-the-B-Flat-Scale-on-a-Trumpet-Step-10.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Play-the-B-Flat-Scale-on-a-Trumpet-Step-10.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-B-Flat-Scale-on-a-Trumpet)\n\n[![Play the Trombone](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f7\/Play-the-Trombone-Step-17.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Play-the-Trombone-Step-17.jpg.webp) How to Play the Trombone ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f7\/Play-the-Trombone-Step-17.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Play-the-Trombone-Step-17.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trombone)\n\n[![Hold a Trumpet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/35\/Hold-a-Trumpet-Step-16.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Hold-a-Trumpet-Step-16.jpg.webp) How to Hold a Trumpet ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/35\/Hold-a-Trumpet-Step-16.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Hold-a-Trumpet-Step-16.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Hold-a-Trumpet)\n\n[![Play the Recorder](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Play-the-Recorder-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Play-the-Recorder-Step-18-Version-2.jpg.webp) How to Play a Recorder: Complete Tutorial for Beginners 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![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c6\/Play-the-Tenor-Saxophone-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Play-the-Tenor-Saxophone-Step-8-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Tenor-Saxophone)\n\n[![Play the Tin Whistle](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/eb\/Play-the-Tin-Whistle-Step-7.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Play-the-Tin-Whistle-Step-7.jpg.webp) How to Play the Tin Whistle ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/eb\/Play-the-Tin-Whistle-Step-7.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Play-the-Tin-Whistle-Step-7.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Tin-Whistle)\n\nAdvertisement\n\n## Expert Interview\n[![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/29\/WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Carter-Miller_sample.png\/340px-WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Carter-Miller_sample.png)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#wh-dialog-sample_695ded7599c39d0631c445f0860d2778)\n\nThanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about playing the trumpet, check out our in-depth [interview](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#wh-dialog-sample_695ded7599c39d0631c445f0860d2778) with [Carter Miller](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Carter-Miller).\n\n## References\n1. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-1) <https:\/\/www.trumpethub.com\/your-first-trumpet-lesson\/>\n2. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-2) <https:\/\/quaver.ch\/how-to-play-the-trumpet\/>\n3. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-3) Carter Miller. Trumpet Player. Expert Interview\n4. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-4) <https:\/\/trumpetheroes.com\/how-to-play-the-trumpet\/>\n5. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-5) <https:\/\/trumpetheroes.com\/how-to-play-the-trumpet\/>\n6. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-6) Carter Miller. Trumpet Player. Expert Interview\n7. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-7) <https:\/\/trumpetheroes.com\/how-to-play-the-trumpet\/>\n8. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-8) Carter Miller. Trumpet Player. Expert Interview\n9. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-9) <https:\/\/trumpetheroes.com\/how-to-play-the-trumpet\/>\n\n[More References (14)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#aiinfo)\n\n1. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-10) <http:\/\/www.music-tutors-uk.com\/tips\/trumpetfingering.html>\n2. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-11) Carter Miller. Trumpet Player. Expert Interview\n3. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-12) <http:\/\/www.music-tutors-uk.com\/tips\/trumpetfingering.html>\n4. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-13) Carter Miller. Trumpet Player. Expert Interview\n5. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-14) <https:\/\/youtu.be\/6Zb4TFVylEw?t=213>\n6. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-15) Carter Miller. Trumpet Player. Expert Interview\n7. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-16) <https:\/\/youtu.be\/6Zb4TFVylEw?t=213>\n8. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-17) <https:\/\/www.trumpethub.com\/your-first-trumpet-lesson\/>\n9. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-18) <https:\/\/www.trumpethub.com\/your-first-trumpet-lesson\/>\n10. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-19) <https:\/\/youtu.be\/6Zb4TFVylEw?t=400>\n11. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-20) <http:\/\/www.music-tutors-uk.com\/tips\/trumpetfingering.html>\n12. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-21) <https:\/\/www.musicnotes.com\/blog\/how-to-read-sheet-music\/>\n13. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-22) <https:\/\/youtu.be\/6Zb4TFVylEw?t=443>\n14. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-23) <https:\/\/www.udiscovermusic.com\/stories\/best-jazz-trumpeters\/>\n\n## About This Article\n![Carter Miller](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Carter_Miller_.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png)\n\nCo-authored by:\n\n[Carter Miller](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Carter-Miller)\n\nTrumpet Player\n\nThis article was co-authored by [Carter Miller](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Carter-Miller). Carter Miller is a trumpet player and YouTube creator. He is known for taking pop songs and transcribing them for the trumpet. He uploads step-by-step tutorials and full trumpet arrangements for his pieces, and posts videos of him playing as well. He has over 12.2k followers on YouTube, with some of his most popular covers garnering over 136k views including Industry Baby by Lil Nas X and Jack Harlow, Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars, and Love Yourself by Justin Bieber. This article has been viewed 918,804 times.\n\n14 votes - 73%\n\nCo-authors: 125\n\nUpdated: March 14, 2026\n\nViews: 918,804\n\nCategories: [Trumpet and Cornet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Trumpet-and-Cornet \"Category:Trumpet and Cornet\")\n\n[Article SummaryX](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#summary_wrapper)\n\nTo play the trumpet, start by practicing the buzzing sound you'll need to make by squeezing your lips together, sticking your tongue out a little bit, and vibrating your lips like you're spitting something out. Once you've got the buzzing sound down, hold the trumpet so the mouthpiece is resting on your lips and your fingers are on the valves. To play notes, blow into the mouthpiece and make the buzzing sound while pressing down on the valves. Experiment by pressing down on different combinations of valves, which will allow you to play different notes. If you want to learn how to play scales and read sheet music, keep reading the article\\!\n\nDid this summary help you?\n\nYes\n\nNo\n\n[In other languages](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#other_languages)\n\n[Spanish](https:\/\/es.wikihow.com\/tocar-la-trompeta)\n\n[Italian](https:\/\/www.wikihow.it\/Suonare-la-Tromba)\n\n[French](https:\/\/fr.wikihow.com\/apprendre-la-trompette)\n\n[Portuguese](https:\/\/pt.wikihow.com\/Tocar-Trompete)\n\n[Chinese](https:\/\/zh.wikihow.com\/%E6%BC%94%E5%A5%8F%E5%B0%8F%E5%8F%B7)\n\n[Russian](https:\/\/ru.wikihow.com\/%D0%B8%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%82%D1%8C-%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D1%82%D1%80%D1%83%D0%B1%D0%B5)\n\n[Dutch](https:\/\/nl.wikihow.com\/Trompet-spelen)\n\n[Indonesian](https:\/\/id.wikihow.com\/Bermain-Trompet)\n\n[Arabic](https:\/\/ar.wikihow.com\/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B9%D8%B2%D9%81-%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%89-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A8%D9%88%D9%82)\n\n[Japanese](https:\/\/www.wikihow.jp\/%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%83%9A%E3%83%83%E3%83%88%E3%82%92%E5%90%B9%E3%81%8F)\n\n- [Print](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n- [Send fan mail to authors](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\nThanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 918,804 times.\n\n## Reader Success Stories\n- ![Brian Bushell](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/CommunityAvatar4.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar4.png)\n  \n  Brian Bushell\n  \n  Sep 29, 2016\n  \"I am learning to play soprano sax, and love to play trumpet music on it, as both are Bb instruments. I have wondered whether I should also take up trumpet and have been wondering how the notes are formed, so this article is most interesting.\"...\" [more](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n[More reader stories](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet) [Hide reader stories](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n[Share your story](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n## Did this article help you?\nYes\n\nNo\n\nAdvertisement\n\nCookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our [cookie policy](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Cookie-Policy).\n\n![Carter Miller](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Carter_Miller_.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png)\n\nCo-authored by:\n\n[Carter Miller](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Carter-Miller)\n\nTrumpet Player\n\n14 votes - 73%\n\nClick a star to vote\n\nCo-authors: 125\n\nUpdated: March 14, 2026\n\nViews: 918,804\n\n![Brian Bushell](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f2\/CommunityAvatar3.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar3.png)\n\nBrian Bushell\n\nSep 29, 2016\n\n\"I am learning to play soprano sax, and love to play trumpet music on it, as both are Bb instruments. I have wondered whether I should also take up trumpet and have been wondering how the notes are formed, so this article is most interesting.\"...\" [more](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n![Rome Malbreaux](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f2\/CommunityAvatar3.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar3.png)\n\nRome Malbreaux\n\nNov 6, 2020\n\n\"This article helped on where to put my fingers on the instrument. Also, it helped me learn how I am supposed to blow into it, and the way I form my lips.\"...\" [more](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n![James Bradley](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b0\/CommunityAvatar2.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar2.png)\n\nJames Bradley\n\nMar 7, 2017\n\n\"The teaching is very clear with many tips which have already helped me. I think this is the best how-to I have seen for the trumpet. Thanks a lot.\"...\" [more](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n![Calvin Y](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b0\/CommunityAvatar2.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar2.png)\n\nCalvin Y\n\nDec 10, 2021\n\n\"I play a different instrument and was wondering ho to play brass this lines up perfectly to what my friends say about it\"...\" [more](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n![Logan Tucker](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b0\/CommunityAvatar2.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar2.png)\n\nLogan Tucker\n\nApr 9, 2016\n\n\"I want to join band next year, and I don't know anything about playing the trumpet. So, thank you for this!\"\n\n[Share yours\\!](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet) [More success stories](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet) [Hide success stories](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n### Quizzes & Games\n[![What Instrument Should I Play Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fd\/Which_instrument_should_i_play_quiz.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Which_instrument_should_i_play_quiz.png.webp) What Instrument Should I Play Quiz![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fd\/Which_instrument_should_i_play_quiz.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Which_instrument_should_i_play_quiz.png)Take Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/What-Instrument-Should-I-Play)\n\n[![Music Notes & Symbols Test](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1b\/Music_notes_quiz.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Music_notes_quiz.png.webp) Music Notes & Symbols Test![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1b\/Music_notes_quiz.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Music_notes_quiz.png)Take Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Notes-Symbols-Quiz)\n\n[![Am I a Good Kisser Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d1\/Are_you_a_good_kisser_quiz.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Are_you_a_good_kisser_quiz.png.webp) Am I a Good Kisser Quiz![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d1\/Are_you_a_good_kisser_quiz.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Are_you_a_good_kisser_quiz.png)Take Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Relationships\/Am-I-a-Good-Kisser-Quiz)\n\n[![Guess the Lyrics From First Letters Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d5\/Guess_lyrics_with_letters.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Guess_lyrics_with_letters.png.webp) Guess the Lyrics From First Letters Quiz![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d5\/Guess_lyrics_with_letters.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Guess_lyrics_with_letters.png)Take Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Guess-the-Lyrics-with-Letters)\n\n### You Might Also Like\n[![Blow into a Trumpet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f8\/Blow-into-a-Trumpet-Step-8.jpg\/-crop-127-140-127px-Blow-into-a-Trumpet-Step-8.jpg.webp) How to Blow into a Trumpet![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f8\/Blow-into-a-Trumpet-Step-8.jpg\/-crop-127-140-127px-Blow-into-a-Trumpet-Step-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Blow-into-a-Trumpet)\n\n[![Play High Notes on the Trumpet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/57\/Play-High-Notes-on-the-Trumpet-Step-18.jpg\/-crop-127-140-127px-Play-High-Notes-on-the-Trumpet-Step-18.jpg.webp) How to Play High Notes on the Trumpet![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/57\/Play-High-Notes-on-the-Trumpet-Step-18.jpg\/-crop-127-140-127px-Play-High-Notes-on-the-Trumpet-Step-18.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-High-Notes-on-the-Trumpet)\n\n[![Develop Embouchure on Trumpet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/06\/Develop-Embouchure-on-Trumpet-Step-11.jpg\/-crop-127-140-127px-Develop-Embouchure-on-Trumpet-Step-11.jpg.webp) How to Develop Embouchure on Trumpet![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/06\/Develop-Embouchure-on-Trumpet-Step-11.jpg\/-crop-127-140-127px-Develop-Embouchure-on-Trumpet-Step-11.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Develop-Embouchure-on-Trumpet)\n\n[![Blow Into a Saxophone](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a6\/Blow-Into-a-Saxophone-Step-13.jpg\/-crop-127-140-127px-Blow-Into-a-Saxophone-Step-13.jpg.webp) How to Blow Into a Saxophone![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a6\/Blow-Into-a-Saxophone-Step-13.jpg\/-crop-127-140-127px-Blow-Into-a-Saxophone-Step-13.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Blow-Into-a-Saxophone)\n\n### Trending Articles\n[![Am I a Princess, Angel, Supermodel, or Baddie?](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Quiz-angel-princess-model-baddie.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Quiz-angel-princess-model-baddie.png.webp) Am I a Princess, Angel, Supermodel, or Baddie?![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Quiz-angel-princess-model-baddie.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Quiz-angel-princess-model-baddie.png)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Am-I-a-Princess,-Angel,-Supermodel-or-Baddie)\n\n[![Tell if Your Boyfriend Is Gay](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/09\/Tell-if-Your-Boyfriend-Is-Gay-Step-14.jpg\/-crop-127-140-127px-Tell-if-Your-Boyfriend-Is-Gay-Step-14.jpg.webp) How to Tell if Your Boyfriend Is Gay![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/09\/Tell-if-Your-Boyfriend-Is-Gay-Step-14.jpg\/-crop-127-140-127px-Tell-if-Your-Boyfriend-Is-Gay-Step-14.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Tell-if-Your-Boyfriend-Is-Gay)\n\n[![Am I a Rizzy Sigma?](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6f\/Rizz_sigma.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Rizz_sigma.png.webp) Am I a Rizzy Sigma?![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6f\/Rizz_sigma.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Rizz_sigma.png)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Am-I-a-Rizzy-Sigma)\n\n[![What Greek Goddess Am I? 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Please contact support@wikihow.pro.\n\n## Thank You\nWe've emailed you a copy of your image, and you can also download it below.\n\n[Download HD Image](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\nBy continuing to use wikiHow, you agree to our  \n[Terms of Service](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Terms-of-Use) and [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Privacy-Policy).  \n  \nwikiHow Pro is intended only for your personal, non-commercial use. wikiHow, Inc. reserves the right to terminate subscriptions to wikiHow Pro at any time and for any reason.  \n  \nQuestions? Please contact [support@wikihow.pro](mailto:support@wikihow.pro).\n\nSomething went wrong\n\n[Dismiss]()","attrs_readable_markdown":"[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n- [Using the Right Lip Position](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#Using-the-Right-Lip-Position)\n- [Holding the Trumpet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#Holding-the-Trumpet)\n- [Playing Your First Notes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#Playing-Your-First-Notes)\n- [Advancing Your Skills](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#Advancing-Your-Skills)\n- [Video](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#Video)\n- [Expert Interview](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#expertinterview)\n- [Q\\&A](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#qa_headline)\n- [Tips](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#tips)\n\nThe trumpet is a popular brass instrument for jazz, classical, and even rock players. Like all instruments, mastering the trumpet takes time, practice and dedication. Start by learning the proper mouth positioning to produce clean notes. Then play through your first scales by learning the different valve combinations. Once you've started improving, advance your playing by learning to read music, playing songs, and mixing advanced techniques into your skill set.\n\n## Trumpet Fundamentals for Beginners\nTrumpet player Carter Miller says to start by perfecting your [embouchure](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Develop-Embouchure-on-Trumpet \"Develop Embouchure on Trumpet\"), which is the way you position your mouth on the instrument. He suggests taking the mouthpiece off the trumpet to practice lip placement and getting a clean sound when you [blow into it](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Blow-into-a-Trumpet \"Blow into a Trumpet\"). Then, move on to learning how to play your first notes.\n\n1. [![Step 1 Press your lips together and keep the corners of your mouth tight.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4e\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-1-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-1-Version-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-1-Version-8.jpg)\n   Making a sound on a trumpet requires more than just blowing air into it. Use the proper lip technique for the best tone. Start by saying the letter M, and holding your lips together right when they touch each other. Then tighten the corners of your mouth. This is the starting mouth position for trumpet playing.[\\[1\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-1)\n   \n   - Don’t pucker your lips. Keep your mouth straight across.\n   - Keep your jaw loose and don’t clench your teeth.\n2. [![Step 2 Push air through your lips to make a buzzing sound.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/19\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-2-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-2-Version-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-2-Version-8.jpg)\n   This buzzing produces the trumpet sound. Use your diaphragm and push air through your lips while keeping them clenched. Produce a buzzing sound as your lips vibrate.[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-2)\n   \n   - Imagine the noise you’d make if you were imitating a mosquito buzzing. This is the sound you want.\n   - Don’t change your lip position like you would when you blow air out. Keep your lips together so they vibrate and buzz.\n   - Avoid puffing out your cheeks.\n   - Lick your lips first if you’re having trouble getting this sound. It won’t work as well with dry lips.\n   Advertisement\n3. [![Step 3 Blow into the mouthpiece when it’s not in the trumpet.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/82\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-3-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-3-Version-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-3-Version-8.jpg)\n   When you’ve gotten comfortable buzzing your lips, get a feel for blowing into the trumpet mouthpiece. Take the mouthpiece and press it against your lips gently. Maintain the same mouth position as before. Then buzz your lips into the mouthpiece.\n   \n   - The mouthpiece won't produce much sound by itself, so don't worry if notes don't sound good yet.\n   - The mouthpiece detaches easily. Just twist it loose a bit while pulling gently and it will come right out. Do the same to put it back in. Don't hit it in or it may get stuck.\n\n1. [![Step 1 Wrap your left hand around the trumpet body.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b9\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-4-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-4-Version-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-4-Version-8.jpg)\n   When playing a trumpet, use your left hand to [hold the instrument](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Hold-a-Trumpet \"Hold a Trumpet\") and your right hand to work the valves. Insert your thumb into the loop attached to the first trumpet valve closest to the mouthpiece. Then wrap your index and middle fingers around the pipe section.[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-3)  Put your pinky through the loop behind the pipes.[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-4)\n   \n   - Use a firm but gentle grip. Don’t squeeze the trumpet.\n2. [![Step 2 Place your right hand along the trumpet valves.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1e\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-5-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-5-Version-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-5-Version-8.jpg)\n   Then put your index, middle, and ring finger on the first, second, and third valves, respectively. Rest your pinky on the pinky ring behind the valves. Don't stick your pinky far in, just rest it.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-5)\n   \n   - Use a light grip with this hand. Support the trumpet with your left hand, and only use the right hand to control the valves.\n3. [![Step 3 Hold the trumpet gently against your lips.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/35\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-6-Version-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-6-Version-7.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-6-Version-7.jpg)\n   Don’t press the trumpet onto your lips or you won’t be able to work your lips properly. Hold the trumpet firmly and touch the mouthpiece to your lips gently. Don’t press down.[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-6) [\\[7\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-7)\n   \n   - Keep your shoulders relaxed while holding the trumpet up.\n   - If you try to play and the trumpet sound is weak or nonexistent, your lips may be too far away. Bring the mouthpiece closer to your lips and try again.\n\n1. [![Step 1 Blow into the trumpet without pressing any valves for a C note.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/44\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg)\n   [\\[8\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-8)  Take a deep breath before starting. Make the same lip position as before, hold the trumpet gently against your mouth, and buzz your lips. On a typical (B flat) trumpet, this produces a C note. Hold the note as long as you can before stopping to take a breath.[\\[9\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-9)\n   \n   - If the sound is weak, you may be puckering your lips instead of buzzing them. Reset your mouth position and try again.\n   - This first note will probably sound rough and choppy. Don’t worry, you’re just starting out. Keep practicing to improve your playing.\n   - Playing without pressing down any valves is called open position.\n2. [![Step 2 Vibrate your lips faster to play a G note.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4d\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-8-Version-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-8-Version-10.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-8-Version-10.jpg)\n   Another note you can play in open position is a G. Play this by buzzing your lips harder. Push more air out so your lips vibrate faster. This raises the pitch of the note and produces a G.[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-10)\n   \n   - Play a C and G right after one another to hear the differences between the two. Pay attention to the feeling when you vibrate your lips for each note. Build muscle memory so you can do both without thinking.\n3. [![Step 3 Press down the first and third valves for a D note.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3d\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg)\n   After mastering your first two notes in open position, move on to playing notes with fingering positions. For a D note, blow with the same force as you did for a C note and press down the first and third valves.[\\[11\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-11) [\\[12\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-12)\n4. [![Step 4 Play an E note by pressing the first and second valves.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/96\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-10-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-10-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-10-Version-9.jpg)\n   The next whole note above D is E. Play this note by pressing the first and second valves and blowing with the same force as you did for a C note.[\\[13\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-13) [\\[14\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-14)\n5. [![Step 5 Hold down the first valve for an F note.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/30\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-11-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-11-Version-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-11-Version-8.jpg)\n   The final note you can produce with the same vibration level as a C note is an F. Hold down just the first valve and blow for this note.[\\[15\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-15) [\\[16\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-16)\n6. [![Step 6 Vibrate your lips more for an A note.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/de\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-12-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-12-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-12-Version-9.jpg)\n   For the next two notes, blow through the trumpet with the same force you use for a [G note](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-a-G-Chromatic-Scale-on-Trumpet \"Play a G Chromatic Scale on Trumpet\"). For an A note, press down the first and second valves while using a G note force.[\\[17\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-17)\n7. [![Step 7 Press down the...](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/01\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-13-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-13-Version-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-13-Version-8.jpg)\n   **Press down the second valve for a [**B note**](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-B-Flat-Scale-on-a-Trumpet \"Play the B Flat Scale on a Trumpet\").** The final natural note on a trumpet is a B (though you can play different octaves). Blow with the same force you would for a G, then press only the second valve for this note.[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-18)\n8. [![Step 8 Play all seven notes in order.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f8\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-14-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-14-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-14-Version-9.jpg)\n   After playing each note individually, start joining them together. Start on the C and work your way up to the B, playing each note in between. Stop to take a breath between each note at first. Then work on making the pattern smoother, with less of a pause in between.[\\[19\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-19)\n   \n   - When you’ve gotten good at working up the scale, try playing it backwards. Start at B and work back down to C.\n   - Then mix the pattern up. Play the notes in different order. See which note combinations sound good and make up your own tunes.\n9. [![Step 9 Mix flat and sharp notes into your playing.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3c\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-15-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-15-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-15-Version-9.jpg)\n   Sharps and flats are halfway between whole notes in the musical alphabet. Different blowing patterns and finger positions produce flats and sharps. Learn these patterns to widen your playing.[\\[20\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-20)\n   \n   - In musical notation, a ♯ sign means sharp, ♭ means flat and ♮means natural.\n   - For a C\\# (D♭), press down all three valves. For a D\\# (E♭), press down the second and third valves. For F\\# (G♭), press down the middle valve only. Use a C lip vibration for all three.\n   - For a G\\# (A♭), press down valves two and three. For A\\# (B♭), press the first valve. Use G lip vibration for both.\n\n1. [![Step 1 Learn to read...](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/69\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-16-Version-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-16-Version-7.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-16-Version-7.jpg)\n   **Learn to [**read music**](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Read-Music \"Read Music\").** Reading music will expand your musical knowledge and make it much easier to learn songs. Find a good guide online or work with a teacher to develop music reading skills. Then practice what you’ve read by playing it on your trumpet.[\\[21\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-21)\n   \n   - There are many resources online that teach you how to read music.\n   - For more instruction, try taking lessons from a local music store or school.\n2. [![Step 2 Find easy songs to play.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/68\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-17-Version-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-17-Version-7.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-17-Version-7.jpg)\n   After you’ve learned individual notes and scales, the best way to progress is putting those notes together to play songs. Look online for some easy songs and melodies to practice playing different notes in order. Then move on to more difficult songs like jazz and blues pieces.[\\[22\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-22)\n   \n   - Some popular, easy tunes for trumpet are \"Happy Birthday\", \"Ode to Joy\", \"Kum Ba Yah\", and \"Frère Jacques\".\n   - Songs don’t need to have trumpet parts for you to play them. Since you know how to form different notes, you can easily translate music onto the trumpet if you know the notes for the song.\n3. [![Step 3 Practice screeching your notes.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/25\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-18-Version-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-18-Version-7.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-18-Version-7.jpg)\n   Screeching, or screaming, is an advanced technique where players jump several octaves in a single breath. Professional players usually use this technique in solos. Bring your playing to the next level by working on this technique.\n   \n   - For a screech, vibrate your lips very quickly and push out a lot of air. This drives very [high notes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-High-Notes-on-the-Trumpet \"Play High Notes on the Trumpet\") from the trumpet.\n   - First try to drive these high-pitched sounds from the trumpet, then work on controlling them better.\n4. [![Step 4 Listen to great trumpet players for inspiration.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-19.jpg\/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-19.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#\/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-19.jpg)\n   As with any instrument, learn from the greats if you want to be a good trumpet player. Go back and listen to some of the best trumpet players in history to hear how they used the instrument. Luckily, most of this music is available on the internet for free, so tracking it down is easy.[\\[23\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-23)\n   \n   - Some of the greatest trumpet players are Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, and Dizzy Gillespie. Listen to their recordings to hear examples of expert playing.\n   - Also learn about how these players practiced and played. You might pick up some habits that will improve your playing.\n   - Jazz has especially good trumpet playing. If you aren’t into it already, try listening to some classic jazz records for more great playing.\n\nSearch\n\n[Add New Question]()\n\n- Question\n  \n  How do I clean my spit valve?\n  \n  ![Community Answer](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f2\/CommunityAvatar3.png\/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar3.png)\n  \n  Community Answer\n  \n  Locate the spit valve release lever or button at the end of your trumpet. Hold it down and give a strong blow through the mouthpiece, and it should come right out.\n- Question\n  \n  My trumpet teacher tells me that my buzz is correct, but for some reason the notes I play are flat and too low. What can I do?\n  \n  ![Community Answer](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0a\/CommunityAvatar1.png\/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar1.png)\n  \n  Community Answer\n  \n  Usually, if your notes are flat, you have to adjust the trumpet's main slide. Use a tuner and adjust the slide until your note is no longer flat.\n- Question\n  \n  How do I blow in the trumpet?\n  \n  ![Community Answer](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/CommunityAvatar4.png\/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar4.png)\n  \n  Community Answer\n  \n  Keep your tongue pushed against the bottom of your mouth. The tip of your tongue should be touching the back of your bottom teeth. Make a buzzing noise.\n\n[See more answers](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Questions\/Play-the-Trumpet#offset=3)\n\nAsk a Question\n\n200 characters left\n\nInclude your email address to get a message when this question is answered.\n\n[Submit]()\n\nAdvertisement\n\n**Did this article help you?** Say thanks with a small tip.\n\n![icon](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/tipjar\/tipjar_logo.svg)\n\n\\$1\n\n\\$3\n\n\\$5\n\nLeave a Tip\n\n*Support our mission to help everyone in the world learn how to do anything.*\n\n- Keep your shoulders and upper body relaxed when you play. If you're tense, you won't be able to play with much power.\n  Thanks\n- Learning an instrument can be frustrating. Don't get discouraged. Commit to practicing regularly and you'll start noticing improvement.\n  Thanks\n- Remember to practice as much as you can. Even a few minutes every day will show improvement after a while.\n  Thanks\n\n[Show More Tips](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n\n#### Tips from our Readers ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/tipsandwarnings\/images\/question.svg)\n- Always make sure to have good posture while playing. If sitting down, sit up straight on the edge of your chair with both feet flat on the floor. If standing, make sure you are standing up tall and not slouching.\n- Rest as much as you practice. Especially when first starting, remember to rest for as long as you played. Use the timer on your phone to help.\n\nThanks for submitting a tip for review\\!\n\nAdvertisement\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/29\/WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Carter-Miller_sample.png\/340px-WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Carter-Miller_sample.png)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#wh-dialog-sample_695ded7599c39d0631c445f0860d2778)\n\nThanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about playing the trumpet, check out our in-depth [interview](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#wh-dialog-sample_695ded7599c39d0631c445f0860d2778) with [Carter Miller](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Carter-Miller).\n## References\nAbout This Article\n\n[Article SummaryX](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet#summary_wrapper)\n\nTo play the trumpet, start by practicing the buzzing sound you'll need to make by squeezing your lips together, sticking your tongue out a little bit, and vibrating your lips like you're spitting something out. Once you've got the buzzing sound down, hold the trumpet so the mouthpiece is resting on your lips and your fingers are on the valves. To play notes, blow into the mouthpiece and make the buzzing sound while pressing down on the valves. Experiment by pressing down on different combinations of valves, which will allow you to play different notes. If you want to learn how to play scales and read sheet music, keep reading the article\\!\n\nDid this summary help you?\n\nThanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 918,804 times.\n\nReader Success Stories\n\n- ![Brian Bushell](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/CommunityAvatar4.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar4.png)\n  \n  Brian Bushell\n  \n  Sep 29, 2016\n  \"I am learning to play soprano sax, and love to play trumpet music on it, as both are Bb instruments. I have...\" [more](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Play-the-Trumpet)\n## Did this article help you?","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Download Article Download Article Using the Right Lip Position \| Holding the Trumpet \| Playing Your First Notes \| Advancing Your Skills \| Video \| Expert Interview \| Q&A \| Tips The trumpet is a popular brass instrument for jazz, classical, and even rock players. Like all instruments, mastering the trumpet takes time, practice and dedication. Start by learning the proper mouth positioning to produce clean notes. Then play through your first scales by learning the different valve combinations. Once you've started improving, advance your playing by learning to read music, playing songs, and mixing advanced techniques into your skill set. Trumpet Fundamentals for Beginners Trumpet player Carter Miller says to start by perfecting your embouchure , which is the way you position your mouth on the instrument. He suggests taking the mouthpiece off the trumpet to practice lip placement and getting a clean sound when you blow into it . Then, move on to learning how to play your first notes. Making a sound on a trumpet requires more than just blowing air into it. Use the proper lip technique for the best tone. Start by saying the letter M, and holding your lips together right when they touch each other. Then tighten the corners of your mouth. This is the starting mouth position for trumpet playing. [1] Don’t pucker your lips. Keep your mouth straight across. Keep your jaw loose and don’t clench your teeth. This buzzing produces the trumpet sound. Use your diaphragm and push air through your lips while keeping them clenched. Produce a buzzing sound as your lips vibrate. [2] Imagine the noise you’d make if you were imitating a mosquito buzzing. This is the sound you want. Don’t change your lip position like you would when you blow air out. Keep your lips together so they vibrate and buzz. Avoid puffing out your cheeks. Lick your lips first if you’re having trouble getting this sound. It won’t work as well with dry lips. Advertisement When you’ve gotten comfortable buzzing your lips, get a feel for blowing into the trumpet mouthpiece. Take the mouthpiece and press it against your lips gently. Maintain the same mouth position as before. Then buzz your lips into the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece won't produce much sound by itself, so don't worry if notes don't sound good yet. The mouthpiece detaches easily. Just twist it loose a bit while pulling gently and it will come right out. Do the same to put it back in. Don't hit it in or it may get stuck. Advertisement When playing a trumpet, use your left hand to hold the instrument and your right hand to work the valves. Insert your thumb into the loop attached to the first trumpet valve closest to the mouthpiece. Then wrap your index and middle fingers around the pipe section. [3] Put your pinky through the loop behind the pipes. [4] Use a firm but gentle grip. Don’t squeeze the trumpet. Then put your index, middle, and ring finger on the first, second, and third valves, respectively. Rest your pinky on the pinky ring behind the valves. Don't stick your pinky far in, just rest it. [5] Use a light grip with this hand. Support the trumpet with your left hand, and only use the right hand to control the valves. Don’t press the trumpet onto your lips or you won’t be able to work your lips properly. Hold the trumpet firmly and touch the mouthpiece to your lips gently. Don’t press down. [6] [7] Keep your shoulders relaxed while holding the trumpet up. If you try to play and the trumpet sound is weak or nonexistent, your lips may be too far away. Bring the mouthpiece closer to your lips and try again. Advertisement [8] Take a deep breath before starting. Make the same lip position as before, hold the trumpet gently against your mouth, and buzz your lips. On a typical (B flat) trumpet, this produces a C note. Hold the note as long as you can before stopping to take a breath. [9] If the sound is weak, you may be puckering your lips instead of buzzing them. Reset your mouth position and try again. This first note will probably sound rough and choppy. Don’t worry, you’re just starting out. Keep practicing to improve your playing. Playing without pressing down any valves is called open position. Another note you can play in open position is a G. Play this by buzzing your lips harder. Push more air out so your lips vibrate faster. This raises the pitch of the note and produces a G. [10] Play a C and G right after one another to hear the differences between the two. Pay attention to the feeling when you vibrate your lips for each note. Build muscle memory so you can do both without thinking. After mastering your first two notes in open position, move on to playing notes with fingering positions. For a D note, blow with the same force as you did for a C note and press down the first and third valves. [11] [12] The next whole note above D is E. Play this note by pressing the first and second valves and blowing with the same force as you did for a C note. [13] [14] The final note you can produce with the same vibration level as a C note is an F. Hold down just the first valve and blow for this note. [15] [16] For the next two notes, blow through the trumpet with the same force you use for a G note . For an A note, press down the first and second valves while using a G note force. [17] Press down the second valve for a B note . The final natural note on a trumpet is a B (though you can play different octaves). Blow with the same force you would for a G, then press only the second valve for this note. [18] After playing each note individually, start joining them together. Start on the C and work your way up to the B, playing each note in between. Stop to take a breath between each note at first. Then work on making the pattern smoother, with less of a pause in between. [19] When you’ve gotten good at working up the scale, try playing it backwards. Start at B and work back down to C. Then mix the pattern up. Play the notes in different order. See which note combinations sound good and make up your own tunes. Sharps and flats are halfway between whole notes in the musical alphabet. Different blowing patterns and finger positions produce flats and sharps. Learn these patterns to widen your playing. [20] In musical notation, a ♯ sign means sharp, ♭ means flat and ♮means natural. For a C# (D♭), press down all three valves. For a D# (E♭), press down the second and third valves. For F# (G♭), press down the middle valve only. Use a C lip vibration for all three. For a G# (A♭), press down valves two and three. For A# (B♭), press the first valve. Use G lip vibration for both. Advertisement Learn to read music . Reading music will expand your musical knowledge and make it much easier to learn songs. Find a good guide online or work with a teacher to develop music reading skills. Then practice what you’ve read by playing it on your trumpet. [21] There are many resources online that teach you how to read music. For more instruction, try taking lessons from a local music store or school. After you’ve learned individual notes and scales, the best way to progress is putting those notes together to play songs. Look online for some easy songs and melodies to practice playing different notes in order. Then move on to more difficult songs like jazz and blues pieces. [22] Some popular, easy tunes for trumpet are "Happy Birthday", "Ode to Joy", "Kum Ba Yah", and "Frère Jacques". Songs don’t need to have trumpet parts for you to play them. Since you know how to form different notes, you can easily translate music onto the trumpet if you know the notes for the song. Screeching, or screaming, is an advanced technique where players jump several octaves in a single breath. Professional players usually use this technique in solos. Bring your playing to the next level by working on this technique. For a screech, vibrate your lips very quickly and push out a lot of air. This drives very high notes from the trumpet. First try to drive these high-pitched sounds from the trumpet, then work on controlling them better. As with any instrument, learn from the greats if you want to be a good trumpet player. Go back and listen to some of the best trumpet players in history to hear how they used the instrument. Luckily, most of this music is available on the internet for free, so tracking it down is easy. [23] Some of the greatest trumpet players are Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, and Dizzy Gillespie. Listen to their recordings to hear examples of expert playing. Also learn about how these players practiced and played. You might pick up some habits that will improve your playing. Jazz has especially good trumpet playing. If you aren’t into it already, try listening to some classic jazz records for more great playing. Advertisement Search Add New Question Question How do I clean my spit valve? Community Answer Locate the spit valve release lever or button at the end of your trumpet. Hold it down and give a strong blow through the mouthpiece, and it should come right out. Question My trumpet teacher tells me that my buzz is correct, but for some reason the notes I play are flat and too low. What can I do? Community Answer Usually, if your notes are flat, you have to adjust the trumpet's main slide. Use a tuner and adjust the slide until your note is no longer flat. Question How do I blow in the trumpet? Community Answer Keep your tongue pushed against the bottom of your mouth. The tip of your tongue should be touching the back of your bottom teeth. Make a buzzing noise. See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement Did this article help you? Say thanks with a small tip. $1 $3 $5 Leave a Tip Support our mission to help everyone in the world learn how to do anything. Keep your shoulders and upper body relaxed when you play. If you're tense, you won't be able to play with much power. Thanks Learning an instrument can be frustrating. Don't get discouraged. Commit to practicing regularly and you'll start noticing improvement. Thanks Remember to practice as much as you can. Even a few minutes every day will show improvement after a while. Thanks Show More Tips Tips from our Readers Always make sure to have good posture while playing. If sitting down, sit up straight on the edge of your chair with both feet flat on the floor. If standing, make sure you are standing up tall and not slouching. Rest as much as you practice. Especially when first starting, remember to rest for as long as you played. Use the timer on your phone to help. Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about playing the trumpet, check out our in-depth interview with Carter Miller . References About This Article Article Summary X To play the trumpet, start by practicing the buzzing sound you'll need to make by squeezing your lips together, sticking your tongue out a little bit, and vibrating your lips like you're spitting something out. Once you've got the buzzing sound down, hold the trumpet so the mouthpiece is resting on your lips and your fingers are on the valves. To play notes, blow into the mouthpiece and make the buzzing sound while pressing down on the valves. Experiment by pressing down on different combinations of valves, which will allow you to play different notes. If you want to learn how to play scales and read sheet music, keep reading the article! Did this summary help you? Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 918,804 times. Reader Success Stories Brian Bushell Sep 29, 2016 "I am learning to play soprano sax, and love to play trumpet music on it, as both are Bb instruments. I have ..." more Did this article help you?
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Learn why people trust wikiHow](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) - [Categories](https://www.wikihow.com/Special:CategoryListing "Special:CategoryListing") - [Arts and Entertainment](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Arts-and-Entertainment "Category:Arts and Entertainment") - [Music](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Music "Category:Music") - [Musical Instruments](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Musical-Instruments "Category:Musical Instruments") - [Trumpet and Cornet](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Trumpet-and-Cornet "Category:Trumpet and Cornet") # [How to Play the Trumpet](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) Co-authored by [Carter Miller](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Carter-Miller) [Last Updated: March 14, 2026](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [Fact Checked](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) - [Using the Right Lip Position](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#Using-the-Right-Lip-Position) - [Holding the Trumpet](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#Holding-the-Trumpet) - [Playing Your First Notes](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#Playing-Your-First-Notes) - [Advancing Your Skills](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#Advancing-Your-Skills) - [Video](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#Video) - [Expert Interview](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#expertinterview) - [Q\&A](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#qa_headline) - [Tips](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#tips) \\|Show more \\|Show less [ARTICLE](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#steps_1) [VIDEO](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#Video) X This article was co-authored by [Carter Miller](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Carter-Miller). Carter Miller is a trumpet player and YouTube creator. He is known for taking pop songs and transcribing them for the trumpet. He uploads step-by-step tutorials and full trumpet arrangements for his pieces, and posts videos of him playing as well. He has over 12.2k followers on YouTube, with some of his most popular covers garnering over 136k views including Industry Baby by Lil Nas X and Jack Harlow, Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars, and Love Yourself by Justin Bieber. There are [10 references](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#References) cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 918,804 times. The trumpet is a popular brass instrument for jazz, classical, and even rock players. Like all instruments, mastering the trumpet takes time, practice and dedication. Start by learning the proper mouth positioning to produce clean notes. Then play through your first scales by learning the different valve combinations. Once you've started improving, advance your playing by learning to read music, playing songs, and mixing advanced techniques into your skill set. ## Trumpet Fundamentals for Beginners Trumpet player Carter Miller says to start by perfecting your [embouchure](https://www.wikihow.com/Develop-Embouchure-on-Trumpet "Develop Embouchure on Trumpet"), which is the way you position your mouth on the instrument. He suggests taking the mouthpiece off the trumpet to practice lip placement and getting a clean sound when you [blow into it](https://www.wikihow.com/Blow-into-a-Trumpet "Blow into a Trumpet"). Then, move on to learning how to play your first notes. ## Steps Part 1 Part 1 of 4: ### Using the Right Lip Position [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) 1. [![Step 1 Press your lips together and keep the corners of your mouth tight.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/4e/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-1-Version-8.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-1-Version-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-1-Version-8.jpg) 1 Press your lips together and keep the corners of your mouth tight. Making a sound on a trumpet requires more than just blowing air into it. Use the proper lip technique for the best tone. Start by saying the letter M, and holding your lips together right when they touch each other. Then tighten the corners of your mouth. This is the starting mouth position for trumpet playing.[\[1\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-1) X Research source - Don’t pucker your lips. Keep your mouth straight across. - Keep your jaw loose and don’t clench your teeth. 2. [![Step 2 Push air through your lips to make a buzzing sound.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/1/19/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-2-Version-8.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-2-Version-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-2-Version-8.jpg) 2 Push air through your lips to make a buzzing sound. This buzzing produces the trumpet sound. Use your diaphragm and push air through your lips while keeping them clenched. Produce a buzzing sound as your lips vibrate.[\[2\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-2) X Research source - Imagine the noise you’d make if you were imitating a mosquito buzzing. This is the sound you want. - Don’t change your lip position like you would when you blow air out. Keep your lips together so they vibrate and buzz. - Avoid puffing out your cheeks. - Lick your lips first if you’re having trouble getting this sound. It won’t work as well with dry lips. Advertisement 3. [![Step 3 Blow into the mouthpiece when it’s not in the trumpet.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/82/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-3-Version-8.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-3-Version-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-3-Version-8.jpg) 3 Blow into the mouthpiece when it’s not in the trumpet. When you’ve gotten comfortable buzzing your lips, get a feel for blowing into the trumpet mouthpiece. Take the mouthpiece and press it against your lips gently. Maintain the same mouth position as before. Then buzz your lips into the mouthpiece. - The mouthpiece won't produce much sound by itself, so don't worry if notes don't sound good yet. - The mouthpiece detaches easily. Just twist it loose a bit while pulling gently and it will come right out. Do the same to put it back in. Don't hit it in or it may get stuck. Part 2 Part 2 of 4: ### Holding the Trumpet [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) 1. [![Step 1 Wrap your left hand around the trumpet body.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b9/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-4-Version-8.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-4-Version-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-4-Version-8.jpg) 1 Wrap your left hand around the trumpet body. When playing a trumpet, use your left hand to [hold the instrument](https://www.wikihow.com/Hold-a-Trumpet "Hold a Trumpet") and your right hand to work the valves. Insert your thumb into the loop attached to the first trumpet valve closest to the mouthpiece. Then wrap your index and middle fingers around the pipe section.[\[3\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-3)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Carter Miller](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/6a/Carter_Miller_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png)Carter Miller Trumpet Player](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Carter-Miller) Expert Interview Put your pinky through the loop behind the pipes.[\[4\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-4) X Research source - Use a firm but gentle grip. Don’t squeeze the trumpet. 2. [![Step 2 Place your right hand along the trumpet valves.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/1/1e/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-5-Version-8.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-5-Version-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-5-Version-8.jpg) 2 Place your right hand along the trumpet valves. Then put your index, middle, and ring finger on the first, second, and third valves, respectively. Rest your pinky on the pinky ring behind the valves. Don't stick your pinky far in, just rest it.[\[5\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-5) X Research source - Use a light grip with this hand. Support the trumpet with your left hand, and only use the right hand to control the valves. 3. [![Step 3 Hold the trumpet gently against your lips.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/35/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-6-Version-7.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-6-Version-7.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-6-Version-7.jpg) 3 Hold the trumpet gently against your lips. Don’t press the trumpet onto your lips or you won’t be able to work your lips properly. Hold the trumpet firmly and touch the mouthpiece to your lips gently. Don’t press down.[\[6\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-6)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Carter Miller](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/6a/Carter_Miller_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png)Carter Miller Trumpet Player](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Carter-Miller) Expert Interview [\[7\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-7) X Research source - Keep your shoulders relaxed while holding the trumpet up. - If you try to play and the trumpet sound is weak or nonexistent, your lips may be too far away. Bring the mouthpiece closer to your lips and try again. Part 3 Part 3 of 4: ### Playing Your First Notes [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) 1. [![Step 1 Blow into the trumpet without pressing any valves for a C note.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/44/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg) 1 Blow into the trumpet without pressing any valves for a C note.[\[8\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-8)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Carter Miller](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/6a/Carter_Miller_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png)Carter Miller Trumpet Player](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Carter-Miller) Expert Interview Take a deep breath before starting. Make the same lip position as before, hold the trumpet gently against your mouth, and buzz your lips. On a typical (B flat) trumpet, this produces a C note. Hold the note as long as you can before stopping to take a breath.[\[9\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-9) X Research source - If the sound is weak, you may be puckering your lips instead of buzzing them. Reset your mouth position and try again. - This first note will probably sound rough and choppy. Don’t worry, you’re just starting out. Keep practicing to improve your playing. - Playing without pressing down any valves is called open position. 2. [![Step 2 Vibrate your lips faster to play a G note.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/4d/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-8-Version-10.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-8-Version-10.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-8-Version-10.jpg) 2 Vibrate your lips faster to play a G note. Another note you can play in open position is a G. Play this by buzzing your lips harder. Push more air out so your lips vibrate faster. This raises the pitch of the note and produces a G.[\[10\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-10) X Research source - Play a C and G right after one another to hear the differences between the two. Pay attention to the feeling when you vibrate your lips for each note. Build muscle memory so you can do both without thinking. 3. [![Step 3 Press down the first and third valves for a D note.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3d/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg) 3 Press down the first and third valves for a D note. After mastering your first two notes in open position, move on to playing notes with fingering positions. For a D note, blow with the same force as you did for a C note and press down the first and third valves.[\[11\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-11)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Carter Miller](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/6a/Carter_Miller_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png)Carter Miller Trumpet Player](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Carter-Miller) Expert Interview [\[12\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-12) X Research source 4. [![Step 4 Play an E note by pressing the first and second valves.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/9/96/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-10-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-10-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-10-Version-9.jpg) 4 Play an E note by pressing the first and second valves. The next whole note above D is E. Play this note by pressing the first and second valves and blowing with the same force as you did for a C note.[\[13\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-13)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Carter Miller](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/6a/Carter_Miller_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png)Carter Miller Trumpet Player](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Carter-Miller) Expert Interview [\[14\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-14) X Research source 5. [![Step 5 Hold down the first valve for an F note.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/30/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-11-Version-8.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-11-Version-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-11-Version-8.jpg) 5 Hold down the first valve for an F note. The final note you can produce with the same vibration level as a C note is an F. Hold down just the first valve and blow for this note.[\[15\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-15)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Carter Miller](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/6a/Carter_Miller_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png)Carter Miller Trumpet Player](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Carter-Miller) Expert Interview [\[16\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-16) X Research source 6. [![Step 6 Vibrate your lips more for an A note.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/de/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-12-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-12-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-12-Version-9.jpg) 6 Vibrate your lips more for an A note. For the next two notes, blow through the trumpet with the same force you use for a [G note](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-a-G-Chromatic-Scale-on-Trumpet "Play a G Chromatic Scale on Trumpet"). For an A note, press down the first and second valves while using a G note force.[\[17\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-17) X Research source 7. [![Step 7 Press down the...](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/01/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-13-Version-8.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-13-Version-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-13-Version-8.jpg) 7 Press down the second valve for a [B note](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-B-Flat-Scale-on-a-Trumpet "Play the B Flat Scale on a Trumpet"). The final natural note on a trumpet is a B (though you can play different octaves). Blow with the same force you would for a G, then press only the second valve for this note.[\[18\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-18) X Research source 8. [![Step 8 Play all seven notes in order.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f8/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-14-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-14-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-14-Version-9.jpg) 8 Play all seven notes in order. After playing each note individually, start joining them together. Start on the C and work your way up to the B, playing each note in between. Stop to take a breath between each note at first. Then work on making the pattern smoother, with less of a pause in between.[\[19\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-19) X Research source - When you’ve gotten good at working up the scale, try playing it backwards. Start at B and work back down to C. - Then mix the pattern up. Play the notes in different order. See which note combinations sound good and make up your own tunes. 9. [![Step 9 Mix flat and sharp notes into your playing.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3c/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-15-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-15-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-15-Version-9.jpg) 9 Mix flat and sharp notes into your playing. Sharps and flats are halfway between whole notes in the musical alphabet. Different blowing patterns and finger positions produce flats and sharps. Learn these patterns to widen your playing.[\[20\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-20) X Research source - In musical notation, a ♯ sign means sharp, ♭ means flat and ♮means natural. - For a C\# (D♭), press down all three valves. For a D\# (E♭), press down the second and third valves. For F\# (G♭), press down the middle valve only. Use a C lip vibration for all three. - For a G\# (A♭), press down valves two and three. For A\# (B♭), press the first valve. Use G lip vibration for both. Part 4 Part 4 of 4: ### Advancing Your Skills [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) 1. [![Step 1 Learn to read...](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/69/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-16-Version-7.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-16-Version-7.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-16-Version-7.jpg) 1 Learn to [read music](https://www.wikihow.com/Read-Music "Read Music"). Reading music will expand your musical knowledge and make it much easier to learn songs. Find a good guide online or work with a teacher to develop music reading skills. Then practice what you’ve read by playing it on your trumpet.[\[21\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-21) X Research source - There are many resources online that teach you how to read music. - For more instruction, try taking lessons from a local music store or school. 2. [![Step 2 Find easy songs to play.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/68/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-17-Version-7.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-17-Version-7.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-17-Version-7.jpg) 2 Find easy songs to play. After you’ve learned individual notes and scales, the best way to progress is putting those notes together to play songs. Look online for some easy songs and melodies to practice playing different notes in order. Then move on to more difficult songs like jazz and blues pieces.[\[22\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-22) X Research source - Some popular, easy tunes for trumpet are "Happy Birthday", "Ode to Joy", "Kum Ba Yah", and "Frère Jacques". - Songs don’t need to have trumpet parts for you to play them. Since you know how to form different notes, you can easily translate music onto the trumpet if you know the notes for the song. 3. [![Step 3 Practice screeching your notes.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/25/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-18-Version-7.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-18-Version-7.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-18-Version-7.jpg) 3 Practice screeching your notes. Screeching, or screaming, is an advanced technique where players jump several octaves in a single breath. Professional players usually use this technique in solos. Bring your playing to the next level by working on this technique. - For a screech, vibrate your lips very quickly and push out a lot of air. This drives very [high notes](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-High-Notes-on-the-Trumpet "Play High Notes on the Trumpet") from the trumpet. - First try to drive these high-pitched sounds from the trumpet, then work on controlling them better. 4. [![Step 4 Listen to great trumpet players for inspiration.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/0f/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-19.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-19.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-19.jpg) 4 Listen to great trumpet players for inspiration. As with any instrument, learn from the greats if you want to be a good trumpet player. Go back and listen to some of the best trumpet players in history to hear how they used the instrument. Luckily, most of this music is available on the internet for free, so tracking it down is easy.[\[23\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-23) X Research source - Some of the greatest trumpet players are Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, and Dizzy Gillespie. Listen to their recordings to hear examples of expert playing. - Also learn about how these players practiced and played. You might pick up some habits that will improve your playing. - Jazz has especially good trumpet playing. If you aren’t into it already, try listening to some classic jazz records for more great playing. ## Community Q\&A Search [Add New Question]() - Question How do I clean my spit valve? ![Community Answer](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f2/CommunityAvatar3.png/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar3.png) Community Answer Locate the spit valve release lever or button at the end of your trumpet. Hold it down and give a strong blow through the mouthpiece, and it should come right out. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \$1 helps us in our mission. [Support wikiHow](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Contribute) [Yes](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [No](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [Not Helpful 17](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [Helpful 70](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) - Question My trumpet teacher tells me that my buzz is correct, but for some reason the notes I play are flat and too low. What can I do? ![Community Answer](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/0a/CommunityAvatar1.png/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar1.png) Community Answer Usually, if your notes are flat, you have to adjust the trumpet's main slide. Use a tuner and adjust the slide until your note is no longer flat. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \$1 helps us in our mission. [Support wikiHow](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Contribute) [Yes](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [No](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [Not Helpful 24](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [Helpful 61](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) - Question How do I blow in the trumpet? ![Community Answer](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f5/CommunityAvatar4.png/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar4.png) Community Answer Keep your tongue pushed against the bottom of your mouth. The tip of your tongue should be touching the back of your bottom teeth. Make a buzzing noise. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \$1 helps us in our mission. [Support wikiHow](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Contribute) [Yes](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [No](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [Not Helpful 21](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [Helpful 49](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [See more answers](https://www.wikihow.com/Questions/Play-the-Trumpet#offset=3) Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. [Submit]() Advertisement Did this article help you? Say thanks with a small tip. ![icon](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/tipjar/tipjar_logo.svg) \$1 \$3 \$5 Leave a Tip Support our mission to help everyone in the world learn how to do anything. ## Video [Read Video Transcript](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) ## Reader Videos ## Tips - Keep your shoulders and upper body relaxed when you play. If you're tense, you won't be able to play with much power. Thanks [Helpful 9](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [Not Helpful 3](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) - Learning an instrument can be frustrating. Don't get discouraged. Commit to practicing regularly and you'll start noticing improvement. Thanks [Helpful 10](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [Not Helpful 4](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) - Remember to practice as much as you can. Even a few minutes every day will show improvement after a while. Thanks [Helpful 5](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [Not Helpful 2](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [Show More Tips](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) #### Tips from our Readers ![](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/tipsandwarnings/images/question.svg) The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below. - Always make sure to have good posture while playing. If sitting down, sit up straight on the edge of your chair with both feet flat on the floor. If standing, make sure you are standing up tall and not slouching. - Rest as much as you practice. Especially when first starting, remember to rest for as long as you played. Use the timer on your phone to help. Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial [Submit](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) Thanks for submitting a tip for review\! 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Advertisement ## Expert Interview [![](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/29/WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Carter-Miller_sample.png/340px-WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Carter-Miller_sample.png)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#wh-dialog-sample_695ded7599c39d0631c445f0860d2778) Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about playing the trumpet, check out our in-depth [interview](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#wh-dialog-sample_695ded7599c39d0631c445f0860d2778) with [Carter Miller](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Carter-Miller). ## References 1. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-1) <https://www.trumpethub.com/your-first-trumpet-lesson/> 2. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-2) <https://quaver.ch/how-to-play-the-trumpet/> 3. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-3) Carter Miller. Trumpet Player. Expert Interview 4. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-4) <https://trumpetheroes.com/how-to-play-the-trumpet/> 5. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-5) <https://trumpetheroes.com/how-to-play-the-trumpet/> 6. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-6) Carter Miller. Trumpet Player. Expert Interview 7. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-7) <https://trumpetheroes.com/how-to-play-the-trumpet/> 8. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-8) Carter Miller. Trumpet Player. Expert Interview 9. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-9) <https://trumpetheroes.com/how-to-play-the-trumpet/> [More References (14)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#aiinfo) 1. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-10) <http://www.music-tutors-uk.com/tips/trumpetfingering.html> 2. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-11) Carter Miller. Trumpet Player. Expert Interview 3. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-12) <http://www.music-tutors-uk.com/tips/trumpetfingering.html> 4. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-13) Carter Miller. Trumpet Player. Expert Interview 5. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-14) <https://youtu.be/6Zb4TFVylEw?t=213> 6. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-15) Carter Miller. Trumpet Player. Expert Interview 7. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-16) <https://youtu.be/6Zb4TFVylEw?t=213> 8. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-17) <https://www.trumpethub.com/your-first-trumpet-lesson/> 9. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-18) <https://www.trumpethub.com/your-first-trumpet-lesson/> 10. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-19) <https://youtu.be/6Zb4TFVylEw?t=400> 11. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-20) <http://www.music-tutors-uk.com/tips/trumpetfingering.html> 12. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-21) <https://www.musicnotes.com/blog/how-to-read-sheet-music/> 13. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-22) <https://youtu.be/6Zb4TFVylEw?t=443> 14. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_ref-23) <https://www.udiscovermusic.com/stories/best-jazz-trumpeters/> ## About This Article ![Carter Miller](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/6a/Carter_Miller_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png) Co-authored by: [Carter Miller](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Carter-Miller) Trumpet Player This article was co-authored by [Carter Miller](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Carter-Miller). Carter Miller is a trumpet player and YouTube creator. He is known for taking pop songs and transcribing them for the trumpet. He uploads step-by-step tutorials and full trumpet arrangements for his pieces, and posts videos of him playing as well. He has over 12.2k followers on YouTube, with some of his most popular covers garnering over 136k views including Industry Baby by Lil Nas X and Jack Harlow, Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars, and Love Yourself by Justin Bieber. This article has been viewed 918,804 times. 14 votes - 73% Co-authors: 125 Updated: March 14, 2026 Views: 918,804 Categories: [Trumpet and Cornet](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Trumpet-and-Cornet "Category:Trumpet and Cornet") [Article SummaryX](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#summary_wrapper) To play the trumpet, start by practicing the buzzing sound you'll need to make by squeezing your lips together, sticking your tongue out a little bit, and vibrating your lips like you're spitting something out. Once you've got the buzzing sound down, hold the trumpet so the mouthpiece is resting on your lips and your fingers are on the valves. To play notes, blow into the mouthpiece and make the buzzing sound while pressing down on the valves. Experiment by pressing down on different combinations of valves, which will allow you to play different notes. If you want to learn how to play scales and read sheet music, keep reading the article\! Did this summary help you? 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I have wondered whether I should also take up trumpet and have been wondering how the notes are formed, so this article is most interesting."..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [More reader stories](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [Hide reader stories](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [Share your story](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) ## Did this article help you? Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our [cookie policy](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Cookie-Policy). ![Carter Miller](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/6a/Carter_Miller_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Carter_Miller_.png) Co-authored by: [Carter Miller](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Carter-Miller) Trumpet Player 14 votes - 73% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 125 Updated: March 14, 2026 Views: 918,804 ![Brian Bushell](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f2/CommunityAvatar3.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar3.png) Brian Bushell Sep 29, 2016 "I am learning to play soprano sax, and love to play trumpet music on it, as both are Bb instruments. I have wondered whether I should also take up trumpet and have been wondering how the notes are formed, so this article is most interesting."..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) ![Rome Malbreaux](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f2/CommunityAvatar3.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar3.png) Rome Malbreaux Nov 6, 2020 "This article helped on where to put my fingers on the instrument. Also, it helped me learn how I am supposed to blow into it, and the way I form my lips."..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) ![James Bradley](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b0/CommunityAvatar2.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar2.png) James Bradley Mar 7, 2017 "The teaching is very clear with many tips which have already helped me. I think this is the best how-to I have seen for the trumpet. Thanks a lot."..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) ![Calvin Y](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b0/CommunityAvatar2.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar2.png) Calvin Y Dec 10, 2021 "I play a different instrument and was wondering ho to play brass this lines up perfectly to what my friends say about it"..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) ![Logan Tucker](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b0/CommunityAvatar2.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar2.png) Logan Tucker Apr 9, 2016 "I want to join band next year, and I don't know anything about playing the trumpet. So, thank you for this!" 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Readable Markdown	[![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) - [Using the Right Lip Position](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#Using-the-Right-Lip-Position) - [Holding the Trumpet](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#Holding-the-Trumpet) - [Playing Your First Notes](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#Playing-Your-First-Notes) - [Advancing Your Skills](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#Advancing-Your-Skills) - [Video](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#Video) - [Expert Interview](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#expertinterview) - [Q\&A](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#qa_headline) - [Tips](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#tips) The trumpet is a popular brass instrument for jazz, classical, and even rock players. Like all instruments, mastering the trumpet takes time, practice and dedication. Start by learning the proper mouth positioning to produce clean notes. Then play through your first scales by learning the different valve combinations. Once you've started improving, advance your playing by learning to read music, playing songs, and mixing advanced techniques into your skill set. ## Trumpet Fundamentals for Beginners Trumpet player Carter Miller says to start by perfecting your [embouchure](https://www.wikihow.com/Develop-Embouchure-on-Trumpet "Develop Embouchure on Trumpet"), which is the way you position your mouth on the instrument. He suggests taking the mouthpiece off the trumpet to practice lip placement and getting a clean sound when you [blow into it](https://www.wikihow.com/Blow-into-a-Trumpet "Blow into a Trumpet"). Then, move on to learning how to play your first notes. 1. [![Step 1 Press your lips together and keep the corners of your mouth tight.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/4e/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-1-Version-8.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-1-Version-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-1-Version-8.jpg) Making a sound on a trumpet requires more than just blowing air into it. Use the proper lip technique for the best tone. Start by saying the letter M, and holding your lips together right when they touch each other. Then tighten the corners of your mouth. This is the starting mouth position for trumpet playing.[\[1\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-1) - Don’t pucker your lips. Keep your mouth straight across. - Keep your jaw loose and don’t clench your teeth. 2. [![Step 2 Push air through your lips to make a buzzing sound.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/1/19/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-2-Version-8.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-2-Version-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-2-Version-8.jpg) This buzzing produces the trumpet sound. Use your diaphragm and push air through your lips while keeping them clenched. Produce a buzzing sound as your lips vibrate.[\[2\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-2) - Imagine the noise you’d make if you were imitating a mosquito buzzing. This is the sound you want. - Don’t change your lip position like you would when you blow air out. Keep your lips together so they vibrate and buzz. - Avoid puffing out your cheeks. - Lick your lips first if you’re having trouble getting this sound. It won’t work as well with dry lips. Advertisement 3. [![Step 3 Blow into the mouthpiece when it’s not in the trumpet.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/82/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-3-Version-8.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-3-Version-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-3-Version-8.jpg) When you’ve gotten comfortable buzzing your lips, get a feel for blowing into the trumpet mouthpiece. Take the mouthpiece and press it against your lips gently. Maintain the same mouth position as before. Then buzz your lips into the mouthpiece. - The mouthpiece won't produce much sound by itself, so don't worry if notes don't sound good yet. - The mouthpiece detaches easily. Just twist it loose a bit while pulling gently and it will come right out. Do the same to put it back in. Don't hit it in or it may get stuck. 1. [![Step 1 Wrap your left hand around the trumpet body.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b9/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-4-Version-8.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-4-Version-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-4-Version-8.jpg) When playing a trumpet, use your left hand to [hold the instrument](https://www.wikihow.com/Hold-a-Trumpet "Hold a Trumpet") and your right hand to work the valves. Insert your thumb into the loop attached to the first trumpet valve closest to the mouthpiece. Then wrap your index and middle fingers around the pipe section.[\[3\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-3) Put your pinky through the loop behind the pipes.[\[4\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-4) - Use a firm but gentle grip. Don’t squeeze the trumpet. 2. [![Step 2 Place your right hand along the trumpet valves.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/1/1e/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-5-Version-8.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-5-Version-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-5-Version-8.jpg) Then put your index, middle, and ring finger on the first, second, and third valves, respectively. Rest your pinky on the pinky ring behind the valves. Don't stick your pinky far in, just rest it.[\[5\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-5) - Use a light grip with this hand. Support the trumpet with your left hand, and only use the right hand to control the valves. 3. [![Step 3 Hold the trumpet gently against your lips.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/35/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-6-Version-7.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-6-Version-7.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-6-Version-7.jpg) Don’t press the trumpet onto your lips or you won’t be able to work your lips properly. Hold the trumpet firmly and touch the mouthpiece to your lips gently. Don’t press down.[\[6\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-6) [\[7\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-7) - Keep your shoulders relaxed while holding the trumpet up. - If you try to play and the trumpet sound is weak or nonexistent, your lips may be too far away. Bring the mouthpiece closer to your lips and try again. 1. [![Step 1 Blow into the trumpet without pressing any valves for a C note.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/44/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg) [\[8\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-8) Take a deep breath before starting. Make the same lip position as before, hold the trumpet gently against your mouth, and buzz your lips. On a typical (B flat) trumpet, this produces a C note. Hold the note as long as you can before stopping to take a breath.[\[9\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-9) - If the sound is weak, you may be puckering your lips instead of buzzing them. Reset your mouth position and try again. - This first note will probably sound rough and choppy. Don’t worry, you’re just starting out. Keep practicing to improve your playing. - Playing without pressing down any valves is called open position. 2. [![Step 2 Vibrate your lips faster to play a G note.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/4d/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-8-Version-10.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-8-Version-10.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-8-Version-10.jpg) Another note you can play in open position is a G. Play this by buzzing your lips harder. Push more air out so your lips vibrate faster. This raises the pitch of the note and produces a G.[\[10\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-10) - Play a C and G right after one another to hear the differences between the two. Pay attention to the feeling when you vibrate your lips for each note. Build muscle memory so you can do both without thinking. 3. [![Step 3 Press down the first and third valves for a D note.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3d/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg) After mastering your first two notes in open position, move on to playing notes with fingering positions. For a D note, blow with the same force as you did for a C note and press down the first and third valves.[\[11\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-11) [\[12\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-12) 4. [![Step 4 Play an E note by pressing the first and second valves.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/9/96/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-10-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-10-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-10-Version-9.jpg) The next whole note above D is E. Play this note by pressing the first and second valves and blowing with the same force as you did for a C note.[\[13\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-13) [\[14\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-14) 5. [![Step 5 Hold down the first valve for an F note.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/30/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-11-Version-8.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-11-Version-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-11-Version-8.jpg) The final note you can produce with the same vibration level as a C note is an F. Hold down just the first valve and blow for this note.[\[15\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-15) [\[16\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-16) 6. [![Step 6 Vibrate your lips more for an A note.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/de/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-12-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-12-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-12-Version-9.jpg) For the next two notes, blow through the trumpet with the same force you use for a [G note](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-a-G-Chromatic-Scale-on-Trumpet "Play a G Chromatic Scale on Trumpet"). For an A note, press down the first and second valves while using a G note force.[\[17\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-17) 7. [![Step 7 Press down the...](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/01/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-13-Version-8.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-13-Version-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-13-Version-8.jpg) Press down the second valve for a [B note](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-B-Flat-Scale-on-a-Trumpet "Play the B Flat Scale on a Trumpet"). The final natural note on a trumpet is a B (though you can play different octaves). Blow with the same force you would for a G, then press only the second valve for this note.[\[18\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-18) 8. [![Step 8 Play all seven notes in order.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f8/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-14-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-14-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-14-Version-9.jpg) After playing each note individually, start joining them together. Start on the C and work your way up to the B, playing each note in between. Stop to take a breath between each note at first. Then work on making the pattern smoother, with less of a pause in between.[\[19\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-19) - When you’ve gotten good at working up the scale, try playing it backwards. Start at B and work back down to C. - Then mix the pattern up. Play the notes in different order. See which note combinations sound good and make up your own tunes. 9. [![Step 9 Mix flat and sharp notes into your playing.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3c/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-15-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-15-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-15-Version-9.jpg) Sharps and flats are halfway between whole notes in the musical alphabet. Different blowing patterns and finger positions produce flats and sharps. Learn these patterns to widen your playing.[\[20\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-20) - In musical notation, a ♯ sign means sharp, ♭ means flat and ♮means natural. - For a C\# (D♭), press down all three valves. For a D\# (E♭), press down the second and third valves. For F\# (G♭), press down the middle valve only. Use a C lip vibration for all three. - For a G\# (A♭), press down valves two and three. For A\# (B♭), press the first valve. Use G lip vibration for both. 1. [![Step 1 Learn to read...](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/69/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-16-Version-7.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-16-Version-7.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-16-Version-7.jpg) Learn to [read music](https://www.wikihow.com/Read-Music "Read Music"). Reading music will expand your musical knowledge and make it much easier to learn songs. Find a good guide online or work with a teacher to develop music reading skills. Then practice what you’ve read by playing it on your trumpet.[\[21\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-21) - There are many resources online that teach you how to read music. - For more instruction, try taking lessons from a local music store or school. 2. [![Step 2 Find easy songs to play.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/68/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-17-Version-7.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-17-Version-7.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-17-Version-7.jpg) After you’ve learned individual notes and scales, the best way to progress is putting those notes together to play songs. Look online for some easy songs and melodies to practice playing different notes in order. Then move on to more difficult songs like jazz and blues pieces.[\[22\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-22) - Some popular, easy tunes for trumpet are "Happy Birthday", "Ode to Joy", "Kum Ba Yah", and "Frère Jacques". - Songs don’t need to have trumpet parts for you to play them. Since you know how to form different notes, you can easily translate music onto the trumpet if you know the notes for the song. 3. [![Step 3 Practice screeching your notes.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/25/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-18-Version-7.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-18-Version-7.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-18-Version-7.jpg) Screeching, or screaming, is an advanced technique where players jump several octaves in a single breath. Professional players usually use this technique in solos. Bring your playing to the next level by working on this technique. - For a screech, vibrate your lips very quickly and push out a lot of air. This drives very [high notes](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-High-Notes-on-the-Trumpet "Play High Notes on the Trumpet") from the trumpet. - First try to drive these high-pitched sounds from the trumpet, then work on controlling them better. 4. [![Step 4 Listen to great trumpet players for inspiration.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/0f/Play-the-Trumpet-Step-19.jpg/v4-460px-Play-the-Trumpet-Step-19.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#/Image:Play-the-Trumpet-Step-19.jpg) As with any instrument, learn from the greats if you want to be a good trumpet player. Go back and listen to some of the best trumpet players in history to hear how they used the instrument. Luckily, most of this music is available on the internet for free, so tracking it down is easy.[\[23\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#_note-23) - Some of the greatest trumpet players are Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, and Dizzy Gillespie. Listen to their recordings to hear examples of expert playing. - Also learn about how these players practiced and played. You might pick up some habits that will improve your playing. - Jazz has especially good trumpet playing. If you aren’t into it already, try listening to some classic jazz records for more great playing. Search [Add New Question]() - Question How do I clean my spit valve? ![Community Answer](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f2/CommunityAvatar3.png/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar3.png) Community Answer Locate the spit valve release lever or button at the end of your trumpet. Hold it down and give a strong blow through the mouthpiece, and it should come right out. - Question My trumpet teacher tells me that my buzz is correct, but for some reason the notes I play are flat and too low. What can I do? ![Community Answer](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/0a/CommunityAvatar1.png/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar1.png) Community Answer Usually, if your notes are flat, you have to adjust the trumpet's main slide. Use a tuner and adjust the slide until your note is no longer flat. - Question How do I blow in the trumpet? ![Community Answer](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f5/CommunityAvatar4.png/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar4.png) Community Answer Keep your tongue pushed against the bottom of your mouth. The tip of your tongue should be touching the back of your bottom teeth. Make a buzzing noise. [See more answers](https://www.wikihow.com/Questions/Play-the-Trumpet#offset=3) Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. [Submit]() Advertisement Did this article help you? Say thanks with a small tip. ![icon](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/tipjar/tipjar_logo.svg) \$1 \$3 \$5 Leave a Tip Support our mission to help everyone in the world learn how to do anything. - Keep your shoulders and upper body relaxed when you play. If you're tense, you won't be able to play with much power. Thanks - Learning an instrument can be frustrating. Don't get discouraged. Commit to practicing regularly and you'll start noticing improvement. Thanks - Remember to practice as much as you can. Even a few minutes every day will show improvement after a while. Thanks [Show More Tips](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) #### Tips from our Readers ![](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/tipsandwarnings/images/question.svg) - Always make sure to have good posture while playing. If sitting down, sit up straight on the edge of your chair with both feet flat on the floor. If standing, make sure you are standing up tall and not slouching. - Rest as much as you practice. Especially when first starting, remember to rest for as long as you played. Use the timer on your phone to help. Thanks for submitting a tip for review\! Advertisement [![](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/29/WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Carter-Miller_sample.png/340px-WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Carter-Miller_sample.png)](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#wh-dialog-sample_695ded7599c39d0631c445f0860d2778) Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about playing the trumpet, check out our in-depth [interview](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#wh-dialog-sample_695ded7599c39d0631c445f0860d2778) with [Carter Miller](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Carter-Miller). ## References About This Article [Article SummaryX](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet#summary_wrapper) To play the trumpet, start by practicing the buzzing sound you'll need to make by squeezing your lips together, sticking your tongue out a little bit, and vibrating your lips like you're spitting something out. Once you've got the buzzing sound down, hold the trumpet so the mouthpiece is resting on your lips and your fingers are on the valves. To play notes, blow into the mouthpiece and make the buzzing sound while pressing down on the valves. Experiment by pressing down on different combinations of valves, which will allow you to play different notes. If you want to learn how to play scales and read sheet music, keep reading the article\! Did this summary help you? Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 918,804 times. Reader Success Stories - ![Brian Bushell](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f5/CommunityAvatar4.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar4.png) Brian Bushell Sep 29, 2016 "I am learning to play soprano sax, and love to play trumpet music on it, as both are Bb instruments. I have..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Trumpet) ## Did this article help you?
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