The Trumpet is, without doubt, one of the oldest brass instruments. In 1923, two Trumpets were discovered in the famous tomb of Tutankhamun, dating to sometime in the 14th century B.C.
The Trumpet attained its typical form around 1500. In the 18th century there were various sizes of Trumpets, which used many kinds of crooks to lengthen the tubes. In Beethoven's time, the Trumpet was a brass tube folded twice; it had a cup mouthpiece fitted at one end of the bore, and a flared bell at the other end. The bore was cylindrical except for the last 45 cm., which gradually became conical as it approached the bell. The Trumpet in today's modern symphonic orchestra, plays the part of the soprano of the brass family.
The ancient Trumpets could only produce the notes of the harmonic series based on the length of the tube. In the early 18th century, Trumpet players acquired the technique of playing the high notes of the harmonic series. Since these notes were close together, the trumpeters were able to play melodies.
Before the invention of the valves, players used crooks and slides to lengthen or shorten the tube. With the development of the valves, this technique declined. By examining works written before the "valve epoch", it appears that composers felt a great need for the sound of Trumpets in the orchestra. This is reflected by the ingenuity and adaptability of their efforts in achieving their goal.
The valve system was introduced to Trumpets in Germany at about 1815. The three valves lengthened the F Trumpet to almost 21.5 cm., and made it possible to play the instrument with great subtlety and agility. Since the first two harmonics were problematic, the players preferred to use the 3rd to 12th harmonics in each of the valve positions. By depressing the pistons against their springs, an extra loop of tubing was admitted, thus lengthening the whole tube and lowering the basic tone.
Trumpet players seem to prefer the B flat Trumpet with an added slide, which can change it to one in A. Thus, it is a transposing instrument. In his Fifth Symphony, Beethoven uses a Trumpet in C in all four movements, so that the notes sound as they are written in the score. Depending on the written scores, the C Trumpet is also used today in symphonic orchestras.
Trumpets can be muted by various mutes, such as the straight mute. With the latter, the player can create a soft echo effect as if played from a distance, or a piercing sound when the Trumpet is blown forcefully. The Trumpet has a Wow-Wow mute as well as a cup mute.
Since they possess a very powerful sound, Trumpets were used for fanfares and flourishes for ceremonies, and for other festive occasions. But Trumpets can also play the most delicate and lyric melodies. The tones of the Trumpet's low register sound full and solemn, while the highest notes are much more penetrating.
Today, there are many kinds of Trumpets which players may choose from. These include Trumpets in D and in E flat, as well as the Bass Trumpet.
