CORNET/TRUMPET FACTS
Frequently asked questions concerning Cornets and Trumpets:
FAQ: What is the difference between a cornet and a trumpet?
ANS: In essence, there is no significant difference between a cornet and a trumpet from the standpoint of a student musician. While the trumpet appears to be larger than the cornet, they are both the same size. The cornet merely has more bends in the tubing and thus appears shorter. In the hands of a beginning player of smaller stature, the cornet sometimes seems easier to handle because its center of gravity is closer to the body. The tone on both instruments is produced the same way and the fingerings on both are identical. There is no discernible difference in tone quality in the hands of a student musician. Many public school bands have a roughly equal mix of cornets and trumpets.
FAQ: Which is better, a lacquer (gold) or silver plated instrument?
ANS: Silver plated instruments are somewhat more expensive than lacquer. Silver plate, on average, may tend to hold up somewhat better than lacquer finish, but much depends on the care given to the instrument by the player. Apart from that consideration, there is little difference between the two other than cosmetic. If 10 brass instructors or professional players were polled, one would likely get about an even split in their opinions as to which finish produces a darker, brighter, mellower, or edgier tone quality. In the hands of a student player, the argument is inconsequential..
FAQ: What is the purpose of the first valve saddle or trigger?
ANS: All cornets and trumpets play slightly out of tune when valve combinations involving the 3rd valve are used. Most cornets and trumpets have a 3rd valve ring to allow more advanced players to adjust the pitch when using these combinations. The addition of the first valve device increases the ability of the more advanced player to further adjust or "humor" these pitches. Generally speaking, most student players would not make use of this feature during their first couple of years of playing.
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