Expert: Kenton Scott - 12/29/2008

Question
hello Mr. Scott, I recently obtained a trumpet. It was a dear friend of mine. he was originally from NY and was in the service. He just passed away in june. Well I have his trumpet. I would like to know how to find out how old it is. And the stupid question I have is doesnt it work if you just attach the mouth piece and blow into it? cause I tried it but no sound. It is in very good condition and the horn of it is enscripted with some sort of design. any info will help and if you need a photo let me know. thank you. debbie

Answer
Hi Debbie,

A trumpet isn't like a piano or a guitar where you push or pluck something and it makes a note.  Blowing into it, isn't enough.  The trumpet is basically an amplifier - like a megaphone.  The sound is produced by buzzing your lips into the mouthpiece.  It may or may not be playable in its current condition.

The first thing to check for is any writing or stamped information on it (names, numbers).