Best
Student TrumpetS
-
Overall: Best for Both beginners and intermediate musicians
-
Best Feature: Customizable grip, the best portable trumpet option
-
TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Intermediate Trumpets
-
Overall: Best for Intermediate solo performers and orchestras
-
Best Feature: Durable Monel Valves
-
TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Professional Trumpets
-
Overall: Exceptional sound and instrument quality
-
Best Feature: Incredible German quality; provides rich “meaty” sound
-
TedScore™: 10/10
Wondering about **trumpet prices**? Thinking of buying a new one? This handy guide answers your questions. Find out which trumpets fit different skill levels, how much they cost, why they’re a good buy, and how to care for them.
So let’s get into the details!
Types of Trumpets
Student trumpets
Student trumpets are also known as beginner trumpets. They are characterized by durability, affordability, and playability. Student friendly models tend to be made from yellow brass, have a two-piece bell, and are finished with lacquer.
Student trumpets have valves of different materials. You may find one with nickel plate valves, stainless steel valves, and even silver valves. These trumpets cost range from £/$100 to £/$1,000.
Intermediate trumpets
Intermediate trumpets are “level-up” trumpets that are something in between student and professional trumpets. This type of trumpet is created to give an advanced performance to advanced beginner trumpet players.
Generally, this type of trumpet comes in a variety of materials. In this category, you might find trumpets from yellow brass, gold brass, plated, lacquered, and equipped with stainless steel or Monel valves. Most intermediate models have a two-piece bell.
Professional trumpets
A professional trumpet is the highest level on the list. Once you master the intermediate trumpet, you can freely invest in a professional one. Professional horns are made of premium materials and are often handcrafted.
These trumpets have outstanding features and a variety of options that give a pro-level performance. Also, the price for a professional trumpet overall cost is higher and may reach up to £/$5,000.
Trumpet Anatomy
At first sight, the trumpet might seem like a pretty simple musical instrument. But if you keep analyzing its anatomy, you will notice that there are loads of parts all working together to, hopefully, make you sound amazing!
Trumpet mouthpieces – The main part that creates the vibration when air passes by.
Mouthpiece receiver – A part where the mouthpiece is inserted.
Lead pipe – Sends the air and the produced vibrations through the tubing.
Valves (buttons) – These buttons help you change the notes.
Top valve cap – Keeps the valve in place while playing.
Three finger rings:
- The pinky ring is on the instrument’s top and keeps your hand “tidy”.
- The trigger ring is on the top of the first valve slide and is for your thumb.
- The third ring is for the pinky finger on the other hand you place inside. This ring is adjustable.
Trumpet bell – A trumpet bell is the part where the air flows, making the vibration come out. This part is often separately shaped and later added to the trumpet’s body.
First, second, and third valve slide – All three valve slides help you adjust the sound.
Main tuning slide – A large slide of the trumpet’s body. By moving this slide, you adjust the instrument’s tuning.
Waterkey valves – Areas where you can flush the water out of the instrument.
Trumpet key types
The vast majority of trumpets are in the key of B-flat and C. These are the most common trumpet types for beginners, and are known as a standard trumpet. All the other keys are pretty rare.
Trumpet size
The trumpet is a versatile musical instrument that comes in different shapes, colors, and sizes. When it comes to size, trumpets vary in their bore size, which is from .450 mm to .472 mm.
While most trumpets follow the standardized size, the piccolo trumpet makes an exception. The bore size of a piccolo trumpet is somewhere between .401 to .417 inches! These trumpets are much smaller and lighter than other trumpets.
Things to Consider When Buying a Trumpet
Bore
The bore size is the first thing you should consider when buying a brass instrument like a trumpet. This will help you avoid an uncomfortable playing experience from occurring since not all bore sizes fit players of all ages.
For example, if the player is a child, you will need a smaller trumpet. They are more “handy” and simple to operate. If you buy a big trumpet for a younger player, you may see the younger player struggling to breathe properly and even giving up completely.
Valves
Valves are the second important thing you should consider. In really cheap student models, a common issue is the instrument can have sticky or seized valves.
Also bear in mind you’ll probably need valve oil to lubricate the valves and maintain their proper function.
Student trumpets tend to have nickel plating, which is a great material as it’s less maintenance.
Bell
The bell size and material give the sound color, which makes them an important thing to consider when buying a trumpet. The most common bell size is 4.5 inches. However, you can find many more different sizes, depending on your personal preferences.
The material also plays a role here. A trumpet may have a one-piece bell or feature two-piece bells. These terms describe the number of pieces of brass and other materials used to manufacture the leadpipe and bell section.
Generally, student models have a two-piece bell because it is a cheaper and easier-to-make option, while one-piece bells tend to be present in high-standard instruments since they are hand-crafted.
Mouthpiece
The mouthpiece has a significant effect on your trumpet-playing performance. The mouthpiece comes in various sizes and dimensions, each suitable for a different playing style. The mouthpiece is a personal thing depending on your embouchure (mouth position), and style of playing.
Most trumpet manufacturers supply an entry-level mouthpiece. However, you can buy new ones over time to upgrade your instrument.
Finger hooks & thumb rings
Finger hooks and thumb rings are parts added to make you feel comfortable while holding the trumpet. Some rings are adjustable so that everyone can manage them by their finger size.
So, if you are buying a trumpet for a younger player, it is best to search for student models with adjustable 3rd valve slide rings.
Water Keys
These brass instruments have different types of water keys. Generally, the water key can be found on the main tuning slide and 3rd valve slide. The traditional lever and spring versions are usually common on student instruments.
Intermediate and professional models feature “Amado” water keys with improved air leakage functions. These water keys take up less space on the instrument but require more maintenance and oiling.
Stays
The position of the stays affects the trumpet’s sound. Professional grade trumpets have the best stays position since years of extensive research and development are invested in them.
Every trumpet player should find the best instrument by considering all these factors and preferences, whether buying beginner trumpets, standard trumpets, intermediate, or professional trumpets.
Material & trumpet finish
Traditionally brass is the most common material for trumpets. The difference can be found only in the copper and zinc ratio, which is why the trumpet price varies for different reputable brands.
Yellow brass is commonly used for construction student trumpets. The ratio of copper and zinc is 70:30, while it can be lower in cheaper student instruments.
Rose brass has the highest copper content of up to 90%. The copper percentage makes rose brass trumpets produce mellow sounds and warmer tones.
You can also find a trumpet with rose brass bells and leadpipe.
Trumpets for Younger Players
When buying a trumpet for a child, it is essential to consider their age first. Children of eight years and older can play student musical instruments, while younger ones should begin with plastic instruments.
Plastic trumpets are much lighter and easy to hold.
The other option is to look at playing the cornet. A cornet is a natural ‘leader’ instrument into the trumpet when the child is a little older.
Our Recommended Trumpets
Best Student Trumpets
DESIGNED FOR: Both beginners and intermediate musicians
CONSTRUCTION: Durable yellow brass construction
FEATURES: Customizable grip, the best portable trumpet option
Yamaha YTR2330 Student Trumpet
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Redesigned valve system that maximizes sound quality
- A lightweight, portable case is included
- Extended 5-year premium brand warranty
- Suited for brass ensembles, bands, and orchestras
- Pricey option for a beginner trumpet
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Players of slightly younger age and beginners
CONSTRUCTION: Stainless steel valves
FEATURES: Nickel plated 7c mouthpiece and case included; provides bold, rich tone
Student Trumpet By Gear4music
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Comes in precious metals like silver and gold
- This trumpet features 3-year warranty coverage
- Affordable price and good quality
- Good for beginners only
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Intermediate Trumpets
DESIGNED FOR: Intermediate solo performers and orchestras
CONSTRUCTION: Rose brass leadpipe and yellow brass valve blocker
FEATURES: Durable Monel valves
Coppergate Intermediate Bb Trumpet
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- One of top quality intermediate Bb trumpets
- Offers clean and warm sound
- Two movable slides on the 1st and 3rd valves
- Suitable for various performance levels, and great for jazz musicians
- Some buyers mentioned sticky or seized valves issue
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Developing musicians, players progressing beyond grade 5, and orchestral trumpeters
CONSTRUCTION: Gold brass bell with Silver-plated body
FEATURES: Produces a warm sound with improved quality
Yamaha YTR4335GSII Intermediate Trumpet
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Brighter tone with improved tonal color
- A gold-plated option is available
- Durable buttons, caps, and pistons
- Some might find it pricey
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Professional Trumpets
DESIGNED FOR: This is not your standard Bb trumpet - it's designed for pro trumpet players who seek exceptional sound and instrument quality
CONSTRUCTION: Yellow brass bell
FEATURES: Incredible German quality; provides rich “meaty” sound; suitable for most music genres
B&S Challenger 2 Trumpet
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Produces a rich sound
- Bell flare and lead pipe combination
- O-Ring dampeners
- Expensive
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Intermediate and professional musicians
CONSTRUCTION: Gold brass
FEATURES: Accurate and clear projection; full-of-life tone; precise intonation
Coppergate Professional Trumpet
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- The best one in the professional trumpet family
- Maintenance care kit and mouthpiece included
- Medium weight
- Provides rich and stable sound
- Available only in gold brass
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Trumpet Accessories
Most manufacturers include a trumpet case, mouthpiece, and maintenance kit with the instrument. However, having one mouthpiece is not enough, especially if you are playing the trumpet professionally – so grab yourself a spare and keep it in your case!
Trumpet stand – an accessory that helps you leave the trumpet for a while, like when you are making a break. This accessory will prevent accidental knocks and damage to the instrument. The trumpet stand we recommend is the Hercules Trumpet Stand
DESIGNED FOR: Any trumpet or cornet
COMES WITH: Hercules drawstring carry bag
FEATURES: SFF coating to protect instrument's finish
Hercules Trumpet Stand
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Compact and portable
- Metronome and tuner can be used simultaneously
- None
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Valve oil – a consumable accessory that enables you to maintain the trumpet sound and stop the valves from sticking and seizing. The valve oil we recommend is the Ultra-Pure Professional Valve Oil
DESIGNED FOR: Any trumpet or cornet
COMES WITH: Non-toxic formula
FEATURES: An odourless oil
Ultra-Pure Professional Valve Oil
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Very long-lasting!
- Use on any piston or rotary instrument
- None
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
The tuner and metronome are cheap trumpet accessories for new players and new trumpets. The metronome has various features that support you while learning. The metronome we recommend is KORG TM60 TUNER & METRONOME
DESIGNED FOR: Every brass players
COMES WITH: One machine for both tuning, pulse and rhythm
FEATURES: Various settings for pulse and rhythm
KORG TM60 TUNER & METRONOME
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Compact and portable
- Metronome and tuner can be used simultaneously
- There are quite a few settings and buttons - make sure that you read the instructions!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Trumpet lyre – an accessory that attaches to the trumpet’s bell if you need to march whilst playing the trumpet.
Trumpet mutes – accessories used for lowering the volume and altering the tonal quality of the trumpet. There are lots of trumpet mutes.
How to Care for Your Trumpet
Here are some of our top tips to look after your trumpet:
- Remove the moisture from the slides
- Lubricate the valves with oil
- Remove the dirt from the surface with a polishing cloth
- Use cleaning supplies such as a flexible brush and brass soap to wash the inside of the instrument
- Replace the cork on the trumpet’s water keys
- Polish the instrument to keep it shiny
How Much Does A Trumpet Cost
Summary
Buying a trumpet can be tough with so many options on the market.
The price of a trumpet can vary depending on the brand, model, and condition. On average, a beginner trumpet can cost around /$100 to £/$1,000, while professional-grade trumpets may reach up to £/$5,000. It’s best to research and compare prices from different retailers to find the most suitable option for your budget and skill level.
Hopefully this article has helped clear things up a little, and if you’d like to read more information, take a look at our Top 11 Trumpets For Beginners page where you’ll find the Trumpets we love the most.
Happy music making!
got any tips on easy trumpet care? mine’s looking a bit rough. cheers!
Just reading up on the trumpet anatomy and was curious about the mouthpiece size comparison to a flute. Would a flutist find it challenging to adapt?
I noticed in the professional trumpet section, the focus was on mechanical features like valves and bore size. It’s crucial to mention the importance of the material and crafting process. Professional players can tell the difference and it heavily influences sound quality. Let’s give those aspects the spotlight they deserve!
Hey Cai , I’m pretty new to the whole trumpet scene and just joined my high school band. I saw that you have a section on student trumpets and I was wondering if there’s a brand or model you’d recommend for someone like me? I’ve never played before, so I really wanna get something that’ll make learning easier but also won’t break the bank. Thanks for the help!
Yamaha’s pretty solid! 👍
CleoPatra99, starting with a student trumpet is a smart move. Look for brands that focus on durability and ease of play for beginners. Yamaha and Bach are solid choices. Good luck!