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How to Become Better at Playing the Trumpet

The sound of the trumpet is one of the most definitive of all the brass family of instruments and is ever at the melodic helm of a host of musical genres from classical to jazz to ska. Owing to the volume and register of the instrument, a trumpet can make or break a song depending on the skill of the trumpet player. Getting better at the trumpet is a process requiring dedication and good practice-time management.

Instructions

- 1
  Set attainable goals for every practice session. Sit down and know what you want to accomplish. Work consistently at achieving the day̵7;s goal. If you are trying to improve your range and your range ends at a high E, set a goal of hitting F comfortably.
- 2
  Master the skills you already have. Trumpet is about muscle memory, so you have to constantly reinforce what you are capable of before moving on to those techniques just beyond your grasp.
- 3
  Focus on your weaknesses. If double tonguing is your weakness, hone in on it and improve it. Practice double tonguing, starting slow and gradually working your way up to a faster pace and rhythm.
- 4
  Listen to trumpet players that you admire and take notes. Refine your ear by picking up on subtle techniques that players like Miles Davis and Wynton Marsalis employ. Translate the things you hear to the sounds you make on your trumpet.
- 5
  Practice, practice, practice. Your embouchure is a muscle that you have to build just as if you were lifting weights.

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