For some reason, the piano, accordion, or organ in the corner of your living room does not appeal to your young son. Little Winston wants to play something much cooler, and realizing how important it is to support and encourage extra-curricular interests, you say “sure” to trumpet lessons. Now comes the hard part: figuring out where to get an instrument and who to hire as a teacher.
Obtaining a Trumpet
Since Winston only recently expressed interest in the instrument, you are loath to buy one. They do not come cheap. Instead you should do one of two things: borrow or rent.
Yes, musicians spit into brass instruments. It comes with the territory, but cleaning a trumpet is essential to its operation, so it has to be cleaned regularly if it is going to work. Have faith that any instrument that makes the expected sounds has been looked after. A rental agency will provide the cleaning tools and advice you need. Small towns do not always possess every instrument children will want, and there is the chance that band students have used up all of the rentals. You might have to leave town for more choice.
If you go to a friend or relative looking for a loan, he might not be able to give the best advice about maintenance if he stopped playing in high school, but the internet has it all there for you.
Do not worry that a trumpet is 20 years old: trends in style do not affect musical instruments the way they influence the clothing musicians wear. As long as an instrument has not become rusty, you are set to book trumpet lessons.
Booking Lessons
You have already found two possible sources for trumpet lessons. Usually, music rental shops also employ teachers or hire space to music teachers. If they do not hire space, these clerks know where you can find a teacher in town or if you have to go out of town for lessons. The person who loaned you his or her trumpet might be willing to teach you how to use it too.
Student Teachers
Another way to look for an instructor is to approach the local high school music teacher or view a community notice board. Gift musicians from the high school band might be looking for a way to fund university and would be willing to give trumpet lessons if you are happy to become a guinea pig to someone who, though talented, has yet to learn how to teach what he knows. You could strike lucky, though, and the cost will be very low.
Teach Yourself to Play Trumpet
It is not the best way to approach music lessons, but you could turn to YouTube if every other search has turned up nothing of value. Anything you want to learn is described in detail, including fingering, how to position your lips, and breathing exercises. Practice routines will be laid out and various levels of training broken into sessions. If you are committed and driven to learn this instrument, it could be your only chance for now.