At first glance, the trumpet and cornet look almost the same. However, once you dig deeper into their features, you realize that these brass instruments differ in their build and sound, and are designed for different musical purposes. In this article, we will compare the trumpet and cornet to break down what actually differentiates one instrument from the other.
Size and Bore
Visually, cornets look smaller than trumpets. The trumpet has a cylindrical bore, which means that the size of tubing in the area where the mouthpiece enters the leadpipe and all the way through up to the bell remains the same. At the bell section, it expands gradually toward the flare.
The cornet differs from the trumpet in how its leadpipe gradually gets bigger all the way through the tuning slide and entire instrument toward the bell. This is known as a conical bore.
Sound
The bore impacts the sound. The conical bore makes the cornet’s sound warmer compared to the trumpet. While the trumpet’s sound is brighter and cuts better through from the stage to the back of the hall, this means that the cornet and trumpet sound similar, but they aren’t the same.
Volume
When it comes to which one is louder, in terms of decibels, they are almost the same. However, because of the difference in the bore size, trumpets cut through the room differently.
Playability
Which one is easier to play? There is no clear answer to that question as every instrument poses its own challenge for a player to master. However, any of those challenges can be overcome through practice.
Speaking about cornets and trumpets, the cornet is considered to be easier to play for younger musicians because it’s smaller and lighter. It’s easier for young children to hold it in their hands. At the same time, some models of trumpets are known for their heavy bells, forcing the weight of the instrument to pull away from the player, making it tiring for younger musicians to practice.
Fingering
The fingering on both instruments is identical. They both are pitched in B-flat. F on the cornet is the same as on the trumpet. This feature makes it easier for musicians to go from one instrument to another.
Mouthpiece
When it comes to whether you can use a trumpet mouthpiece on the cornet, the answer is no, as the trumpet mouthpiece is bigger. When you place your cornet mouthpiece into a trumpet, you will see it is too small for that instrument. However, you can still use a cornet mouthpiece with your trumpet by installing it with specially designed trumpet adapters. They add length to the cornet mouthpiece, helping it fit your trumpet without altering its register.
Which One to Choose: Cornet or Trumpet
The answer to this question is based on the music you want to play and what type of ensemble you’re going to perform with.
If you want to play in a jazz or classical orchestra, then it’s better to choose a trumpet as it provides a really jazzy tone and pierces through other instruments better. It’s also good for producing a dark orchestral sound.
For brass bands, you can go for a cornet as it’s easier to slot in and blend with other brass instruments to create a harmonious and rich sound.
What You Need to Consider to Play the Trumpet and Cornet
Here are the basics that are important to play these two instruments well:
- Correct Position. You need to hold your instrument correctly. Your left hand should support the instrument by holding its valve casings. By putting one of your fingers in a ring, you can make your grip more solid. Your right hand should be used for playing. The pinky finger goes in the ring, while the other three fingers are used to press valves.
- Buzzing. Learn how to buzz through the mouthpiece, as buzzing is a fundamental technique for creating tones on any of these instruments.
- Proper Embouchure. To play a trumpet or a cornet, you need to have a balanced lip set, with firm corners and a flexible center. It’s important to remember that your sound is shaped by air, not force. You can work on your correct embouchure first with the mouthpiece alone, as well as using trumpet embouchure trainers (T.E.T).
- Correct Breathing. Playing trumpet or cornet is impossible without deep, relaxed inhalation. Let air come from the body, not the chest. Ensure you don’t have any tension. If your air is weak or unstable, you won’t get a good sound.
- Correct Posture. When you play, keep your spine straight, shoulders down, and neck free.
- Grip. You need to hold your instrument stable and relaxed. Do not squeeze it too tightly. The right hand controls valves, while the left hand supports your instrument without tension.
Useful Gear and Accessories for Trumpet and Cornet Players
Below you can find the list of helpful gear and accessories aimed at normal instrument function, extra protection, and your personal comfort:
- Instrument Bag. Trumpets and cornets are sensitive to dents and scratches. By using reinforced padded bags tailored specifically to the instrument’s shape, you can protect them during transportation.
- Valve Oil. This lubricant keeps valves smooth. Dry valves kill technique and response, so ensure you don’t ignore this maintenance routine.
- Slide Grease. This product helps your tuning slide move, which is important to control your intonation.
- Cleaning Tools. Use a snake brush to clean the inside of the tubing and a mouthpiece brush to clean residue and saliva from your mouthpiece. To maintain a shiny surface of your instrument, wipe it down with a soft microfiber cloth.
Final Word
Although cornets and trumpets share similarities in fingering and buzzing technique, they differ in size, bore, and sound. However, with dedication, regular practice, and helpful gear, you can easily move from one instrument to another.
Explore our full collection of skill development tools for brass instruments to make faster progress with mastering your trumpet or cornet.
Would you like to improve your timing and rhythm? Take a look at Helpful Metronome Exercises for Brass Musicians.
Source:
Trumpet vs Cornet: What's The Difference Between A Trumpet and a Cornet?
https://kgumusic.com/pages/about-us