By
eHow Arts & Entertainment Editor
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step1
Inspect both ends of the mouthpiece for nicks or scratches and clean out the inside of the mouthpiece with a brush to scrub out any dirt or debris.
Step2
Check the oil. Oiling the trumpet valves regularly makes it easier for them to move up and down and improves the trumpet's tone. Unscrew and pull out each valve individually and make sure it's well-oiled and working properly.
Step3
Grease the slides. The slides affect the sharpness of the trumpet's sound and must be greased often to keep them moving freely.
Step4
Look in the bell, using a flashlight if necessary, and make sure nothing is stuck. If there is anything obstructing the main airway between the mouthpiece and the bell, the trumpet won't play. If you have to remove anything from the bell of the trumpet, do so slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the inside of the instrument.