Brass Instruments

... Richard Bradley Brass Instruments This instrument family is recognised as the loudest. Brass instruments can be found in almost any ensemble and have an extensive range of notes. Brass instruments are all played by vibrations produced by a player and blowing into a cup shaped mouthpiece. Trumpet The trumpet is a popular brass instrument that is played in both bands and orchestras. Notes on the trumpet can be changed by changing fingerings on the trumpet's three valves and by changing lip tension. Most modern bands use trumpets that are pitched in the key of B flat and have a tube of four and a half feet. This tube makes up the majority of the instrument. History of the trumpet Trumpets, which were first made from conch shells, have been used since ancient times as ritual instruments in many cultures. Silver and bronze trumpets with long straight tubes and flared bells still survive

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