How to Buy an Antique Trumpet
Musical instruments rarely become obsolete over time. In fact, many of them have special qualities and sounds that cannot be reproduced by their modern equivalents. The Stradivarius violin is a case in point.
Likewise, antique trumpets often possess a distinct timbre, intonation, or action on the pads. As one of the oldest instruments in the world (it is referred to in the Bible), the trumpet has appeared in many forms and can produce a wide range of sounds.
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Things You'll Need
- Music lessons
- Antique trumpet
- Appraiser
- Refurbishing service (optional)
Instructions
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Learn about the trumpet. Get some basic trumpet lessons from a freelance music teacher or at a local community college. You need not become Wynton Marsalis but learn how to blow a few notes. If you don't know it already, familiarize yourself with basic music terminology and the different kinds of trumpets on the market. Some brands are generally for jazz and others are mostly for classical.
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Cruise for antique trumpets. Visit your local musical instrument shop. Used trumpets are also sold online but it may be wiser to look at ones you can touch and play. Otherwise, you run the risk of buying something that is in poor condition. If you do buy off the web, find out if the seller found the trumpet in his attic or personally played it. In the latter case, the trumpet probably is in good condition as most musicians take good care of their instruments.
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Consult an expert on your purchase. Trumpets come in two varieties: amateur and professional. The high school band variety is mass-produced and cheap. The used professional models cost $500 or more. They often are nickel or silver-plated. A formal appraisal may not be required but be sure to ask a brass musician about the make and model you plan to buy.
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Consider a refurbishment service for trumpets. Just like antique cars, some high-quality musical instruments can be restored to better condition. Restoration can include removal of dents, replacing valve springs, de-gunking the internal tubing, and ultrasonic cleaning. This may be a good option if you a find a fixer-upper at a low price.
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Tips & Warnings
Be sure you don't buy an antique amateur trumpet. Older does not necessarily mean better.
