What to Know Before Purchasing Vintage Trumpets
The trumpet is a brass instrument commonly used across all music genres. Being able to produce a dark tone in the lower register and a bright tone in the high register, it is recognized for its versatility. Vintage trumpets are known to be well-made and durable, allowing them to provide the same great sound as newer models.
What vintage trumpet brands are available?A number of American and international makers have produced quality trumpets over the years. They are mostly built on the same design due to the nature of the trumpet. They do have some small differences in material and design, giving them each their own unique sound and feel. Check out these old trumpet brands:
- Conn
- Bach
- Holton
- King
- Martin
The material your trumpet is made from determines a large part of its aesthetic and can help drive its sound quality. The following finishes are available:
- Brass: You'll likely find lots of unlacquered antique trumpets made from a brass composite. However, many of the 1930s trumpet models are made from solid brass.
- Silver-Plated: A brass trumpet may be plated with silver, giving it a clear, bright sound and a shiny aesthetic.
- Solid-Silver: Trumpets made completely from silver are common among professional models.
- Lacquer: Some trumpets are covered with either a clear or a colored lacquer. Miles Davis famously played a red trumpet in the latter part of his career.
- Gold: Some of the more valuable instruments available are made from gold or are gold-plated.
Some preowned trumpets sold on eBay come with a variety of accessories, making it possible to play the instrument right out of the box. Some of these accessories are also designed to help maintain the instrument or to protect it. Common accessories include the following:
- Case: Certain vintage trumpets for sale include a case, either a new after-market case or an original model case.
- Valve Oil: Valve oil is used to lubricate the valves on vintage trumpets. It helps the keys move effortlessly up and down when being played.
- Mouthpiece: Check to see if the old trumpet you are interested in comes with a mouthpiece included. This will be necessary to play the instrument.
- Sheet Music: Trumpet books help you get started learning the instrument with exercises and simple music.
- Tuning Slides: Tuning slides on the trumpet may be interchangeable. This can affect the intonation, range, and tone quality of the instrument.