How to Play Trumpet Scales
Trumpet scales are the most basic notes learned with the instrument. They familiarize you with the fingerings as well as immerse you in the tonal basics for most types of Western music. They also make excellent warm-up exercises, loosening your lips in preparation for more extended playing. You can play a number of different scales in different keys, but the most basic scale for a trumpet is the C Major scale. Start with that and then gradually move on to different scales.
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Instructions
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Wrap the fingers of your left hand around the center of the trumpet--the three tubes containing the valves--and gently place the first three fingers of your right hand on the tops of the three valves. Stand or sit straight as you do so; this is the correct posture for playing the trumpet.
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2
Hold the trumpet's mouthpiece up to you lips. Don't press it hard, but let it rest comfortably. Purse your lips and make a buzzing sound, breathing slowly and evenly into the trumpet to produce the notes.
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Leave the valves open as you play. This is the "C" note: the beginning of the scale.
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Press down on the first and third valves of the trumpet. This creates the "D" note, one step higher than the "C" note.
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Raise the third valve while continuing to press down on the first valve, and press down on the second valve as you do so. This creates the "E" note, a step higher on the scale.
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Lift the second valve on the trumpet while holding down the first valve. This is the "F" note, which is a half step above the "E" note.
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Open up all the valves to create the "G" note, one full step above "F."
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Press down on the first and second valves to create the "A" note, a step higher than "G."
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Lift the first valve while holding down the second valve to create the "B" note, one step above the "A" note.
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Open all the valves again to create the "C" note, a half step above "B" and one complete octave above the original "C."
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Repeat the process using other scales, fingering each note on the scale in sequence. Use Trumpet Studios' fingering chart to determine the precise fingering for each scale.
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Tips & Warnings
Note that the C major scale on the trumpet is considered a Bb (B-flat) major scale on other instruments.
Always warm up by playing a few scales before moving on to more serious musical pieces. It prevents strain on your mouth and allows you to play for longer periods of time.
