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Play Smarter, Not Harder: Claude Gordon’s Take on Brass Playing

brent@creativestate.com (Brent Lollis) — Sun, 22 Jun 2025 19:22:34 GMT

Claude Gordon said something that makes a lot of players do a double-take: "Brass playing is no harder than deep breathing." Sound crazy? Probably, if you've ever felt like your eyes were about to bulge out playing in the upper register. But Gordon was dead serious.

This was a core part of his approach to teaching. Gordon believed that most of the struggle brass players feel comes from playing incorrectly, not from the instrument itself. When things are done right—when you're playing in tune with how your body naturally works—it can feel effortless.

Let’s dig into what Gordon meant and how his approach can still help players today, whether you're in high school or collect, or you're a pro with gigs every night of the week.

We hope you'll read to the end and check out some of the videos of Claude playing. Also... a little disclaimer: This post explores Gordon's approach, philosophy, and opinions. You're free to agree or disagree... but don't come at me! ��

Why So Many Players Struggle

We’ve all heard things like: "It's only easy for him because of his natural talent" or "My teeth aren't perfect so I'll never be able to play lead trumpet." Gordon called BS on all of that.

He talks about the "overcrowded middle" where most trumpet players stay. But there’s room at the top. Getting out of that middle group requires practicing the right way—not just grinding or buying the next magic mouthpiece. Gordon had a long list of bad advice he’d seen students follow: buzzing on mouthpieces, playing with belts to "blow against," using pressure springs, even hanging horns on strings. In his opinion, none of it works.

Instead, he pointed players toward a simple physical truth - The instrument can’t play itself. It’s just a tube. You make it work.

Deep Breathing

Gordon talked about deep breathing a lot —and for good reason. He thought most players overcomplicate it. You don’t blow with your stomach or your diaphragm. Air goes only goes into one place... your lungs. That’s it.

He taught players to breathe from the chest: upright, relaxed, and full. One of his first assignments for students was 10 deep breaths a day—chest up, in and out, no collapse. It sounds basic, but try it. Most people let their chest drop halfway through.

He used metaphors that made it click. Your lungs are bellows. Your body has to move air with power, like an accordion. And all of that depends on strength—not tension, but strength—in the right places.

Want to go deeper into this concept? Check out Claude Gordon's book called Brass Playing Is No Harder Than Deep Breathing (Carl Fischer Publishing).

Correct = Easy

Gordon believed that if it’s hard, something’s wrong. Playing should feel easy—when you do it right. He wasn’t saying it wouldn’t take work. He was saying the work needed to be done the right way.

He told the story of losing his high F for years because of bad advice from a teacher: tighten the corners, jut the jaw. He says that advice wrecked his playing. Only after studying with Herbert L. Clarke did he start to rebuild.

When you’re playing correctly, there’s no squeezing, no straining, no purple-faced torture. The air does the work. The rest is habit.

The 7 Things That Actually Matter

In his method book Systematic Approach to Daily Practice, Gordon listed the seven things that make brass playing work:

Wind Power
Tongue
Wind Control
Lips (only as a vibrating surface)
Facial Muscles
Fingers
The Hand That Holds the Instrument

Each one has to be developed correctly—through repetition, not overthinking. For example, tongue position is how you change pitch, not by squeezing your lips. Gordon demonstrated that by having students whistle, lock their tongue, and try to change notes. You can’t.

Nature Doesn’t Lie

Gordon was big on using nature as a guide. He compared brass playing to physics and flight. Just like planes rely on lift, gravity, thrust, and drag— brass players rely on breath, tongue, and airflow . Get those things working together, and your range and tone go up fast. Ignore them, and you’re in for a frustrating ride.

He said players are like athletes. You train, you repeat, and eventually it becomes automatic. You don’t think about it anymore. It’s just there.

Want to Try It? Start Here

If you’re tired of grinding and guessing, here’s a quick-start version of Gordon’s ideas:

Breathe right: Chest up, in through the nose, out through the mouth. Don’t let it drop. Do 10 breaths, 5x a day.
Stop buzzing: Play the instrument. Don’t waste time on mouthpiece tricks.
Ditch the gimmicks: No pencil exercises. No springs. No belts.
Use the good books: Gordon swore by Arban , Saint-Jacome , and Clarke . Just make sure you’re applying them with good habits.

Final Take

Gordon’s didn't try to sell a "silver bullet" approach. He didn't promise an easy Double C in under 30 seconds. He provides a roadmap. If you follow it, things get easier. You stop dreading high notes. You stop cutting your lip on the mouthpiece. You stop feeling stuck.

Brass playing isn’t supposed to be painful. It can be powerful, fun, even relaxing. But only if you practice the right way. So take a deep breath—and start there.

More to Explore:

CODA

Claude Gordon wasn’t just a master teacher—he was also instrumental in developing the horns he played. Dissatisfied with off-the-shelf designs, he worked closely with manufacturers to create trumpets that matched his playing philosophy: free-blowing, focused, and built for power without strain.

Perhaps the most famous of these is the Benge Claude Gordon model, which he developed with Benge in the 1970s. This large bore (.470"), trumpet was designed for projection and slotting consistency, especially in upper registers. It reflects Gordon’s commitment to efficient airflow and big, resonant sound.

Many well-known commercial trumpet players have played the Claude Gordon Benge model. Even among those who never studied directly under Gordon, it’s respected as a horn built for big commercial and lead sound with surprising flexibility.

At Heritage Trumpets , we buy, sell, and restore dozens of vintage Benge trumpets each year—including many Claude Gordon models. Our inventory regularly includes a wide variety of Benge trumpets from Chicago, to Burbank, to LA. Whether you're looking to play one or simply appreciate the craftsmanship, these horns are a major part of trumpet history.

Check out these links:

Benge trumpets currently in stock at Heritage Trumpets

A gallery of Claude Gordon Benge models we’ve sold over the years

Have questions about finding the right Benge or Claude Gordon horn for your needs? We’re happy to help. Email store@heritagetrumpets.com or text 501-777-5594 And finally, don't forget to signup for the newsletter below to get new blog alerts and get first look at the new arrivals to the shop.

10 Things You Might Not Know About Fats Navarro: A Jazz Legend Who Redefined Bebop

Sat, 22 Feb 2025 22:19:01 GMT

Fats Navarro was one of the most influential trumpet players ever, a player whose soaring lines and impeccable phrasing helped shape the bebop revolution. Born Theodore Navarro on September 24, 1923, in Key West, Florida, his sound both bold and unmistakable. His work with bebop legends like Charlie Parker, Tadd Dameron, and Bud Powell cemented his place in jazz history, yet his career was tragically brief. Navarro’s life was cut short at just 26, but his influence on trumpet players and jazz musicians remains undeniable.

Here are 10 things you might not know about Fats Navarro:

1. A Unique Multicultural Background

With Cuban, African American, and Chinese ancestry, Navarro’s heritage made him one of the most diverse figures in early bebop. Growing up in Key West, a cultural crossroads, played a significant role in shaping his musical sensibilities. ( Source )

2. Piano Came First

Before becoming a trumpet icon, Navarro started on piano at just six years old. By thirteen, he had switched to trumpet, demonstrating an early ability to adapt and master new instruments. ( Source )

3. A Brief Stint with the Tenor Saxophone

Not many know that Navarro also played the tenor saxophone professionally before fully committing to the trumpet. This versatility helped shape his approach to phrasing and melodic construction. ( Source )

4. The Nickname He Couldn’t Shake

Despite being widely known as “Fat Girl,” a name derived from his stocky build and high-pitched voice, Navarro was not fond of the nickname. ( Source )

5. A Lasting Influence on Clifford Brown

Many trumpet players idolized Navarro, but none more so than Clifford Brown. Brown cited Navarro’s fluid technique, warm tone, and fearless approach to bebop as a primary influence on his own development. ( Source )

6. Legendary Sessions with Tadd Dameron

Some of Navarro’s most memorable recordings came from his collaboration with pianist and arranger Tadd Dameron. Pieces like “The Chase” and “Lady Bird” remain bebop essentials. ( Source )

7. He Was Bilingual

Navarro was bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish fluently. This ability allowed him to communicate effortlessly with musicians from New York’s Latin jazz community. ( Source )

8. Honored by Metronome Magazine

Recognition of Navarro’s genius came early—he was honored by Metronome magazine multiple times which led to recording with the prestigious Metronome All-Stars in 1948, which included Charlie Parker and other bebop greats. ( Source )

9. The Battle with Tuberculosis

Struggles with heroin addiction weakened Navarro’s immune system, making him vulnerable to tuberculosis. His declining health ultimately led to his passing in 1950 at the young age of 26. ( Source )

10. His Trumpets of Choice

Navarro was known to have played an French Besson trumpets , which are known for their rich, warm tone. Besson trumpets were also played by other jazz greats, including Miles Davis and Lee Morgan. ( Source )

Essential Fats Navarro Performances:

To truly appreciate Navarro’s genius, check out these iconic recordings:

"Move" by Denzil Best – A brilliant showcase of Navarro’s bebop mastery. ( YouTube )

"High On An Open Mike" – A live 1947 session featuring Charlie Ventura and Buddy Rich. ( YouTube )

"Our Delight" – A 1948 classic from the Royal Roost sessions. ( YouTube )

"Maternity (Lard Pot)" – A standout track from The Birth of Bop collection. ( YouTube )

"Yardbird Suite" – A beautifully restored 1948 recording with vocals. ( YouTube )

Fats Navarro’s contributions to jazz can’t be overstated. Though his career was short, his influence continues to be felt in the playing of countless trumpeters. His signature sound, forward-thinking improvisation, and mastery of bebop trumpet remain essential listening for jazz enthusiasts and musicians alike.

Thanks for reading! This article was written and compiled by the Heritage Trumpets team. Don't forget to sign-up below for our newsletter for exclusive deals and discounts. We also encourage you to browse our selection of unique and vintage trumpets for sale .

Are You Suspicious of Really Good Product Photos?

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 20:56:52 GMT

"Those photos are too good! Are they hiding something?"

At least once a month, someone will see one of our trumpets for sale - in our online store , or on platforms like Google, eBay , Reverb , TrumpetHerald, or FB Marketplace - and ask something like:

"Will you send me some photos of that horn with no special effects?"

Sometimes we try to assure people that there are no special effects or heavy editing in the photos we take of our trumpets. For some this assurance is enough to ease their fears. But for a few, only poorly-lit, slightly out-of-focus, uncropped photos of the trumpet will give them comfort. And while we are more than happy to take additional photos and videos of every trumpet we offer, we thought we'd take you behind the scenes of how we photograph trumpets and show how little editing we do to our photos before we post them.

The "Studio"

The Camera

We currently use an iPhone 15 Pro to take and edit all our photos and videos. Everything we have posted in the last year was taken with an iPhone. We have a wide array of professional cameras for still photos and videos. But we've found that for trumpet photos the trusty old iPhone produces acceptable results and we don't feel the need to add the extra steps and complexity that using other cameras brings. In fact, the iPhone does such a good job that some people are suspicious that they have been "Photoshopped" - which has become a blanket term for virtually any editing or post-production.

The Photo Editing

Most of our photos and videos are taken, edited, and posted directly from an iPhone and have been edited using the following 3 simple steps:

Straighten - Open the photo in the Photos app > click Adjust > click Crop > use the slider to adjust the photo. Just make it straight. Find the horizon, or the primary horizontal line, and straighten the photo. This should take less than 10 seconds per photo.
Crop - After you've straightened the photo, click the Crop icon, choose Square (most compatible with social media and ecommerce sites) or Freeform (needed in some instances to focus the viewer on the instrument and remove distractions). Crop the photo to ensure the instrument is the primary focus and that any other visual distractions are cropped out. The Photos app has a grid that divides the photo into thirds horizontally and vertically. Use that grid to align the photo. There isn't a whole lot of expertise needed here. Just try to make sure the instrument - or main part of the instrument that specific photo intends to feature - is aligned horizontally and vertically as best as you can.
Adjust - The majority of our photos are on black or other solid backgrounds. For photos on a solid black background, the only adjustments we make are to brightness, contrast, and black point. All of these settings are available in the set of scrolling icons that appear below the photo after you click Adjust. For photos on gray, white, or other backgrounds we generally only use Apple's built-in Magic Wand adjustments. We find the AI built into this feature gets it right - or certainly "good enough" - most of the time.

That's it.

We don't magically erase any dents or dings. We don't Photoshop any silver into places it doesn't exist. We don't edit out any poor solder work done by a repair tech 30 years ago. Our goal is to show the true condition of these vintage and unique instruments in the best light possible ( pun intended ). In fact, if you browse through the site you'll find listings where used the 3 steps described above to actually highlight a dent or other imperfection.

The Before & After images below show the raw, unedited photo taken with an iPhone followed by the final image we used online that has been lightly edited using the steps described above.

The Videos

Recently we have started creating short videos for some of our listings. The "algorithms" on Facebook Marketplace and other platforms give priority to video in some instances. Generally we take the same photos we previously created and load them into an app that has the latest templates for creating TikTok videos and Instagram Reels. This is the only place you might see any "special effects" on our listings. The purpose is simply to catch a viewer's eye and give the algorithm a reason to prioritize our listings. These video apps come and go. If you have an aptitude for technology you can learn the new "flavor-of-the-month" app in a couple of hours. The app we are using at the time of this writing is simply called VIDS .

The Final Product

The photos and videos of our products are high quality. They aren't perfect. They aren't even the best. There are sellers and instrument manufacturers who do some amazing photography and creative videos. We think ours are at least above average. Here's a YouTube playlist of some of our recent videos.

Hope you found this article helpful!

Take a minute to browse through our selection of unique and vintage trumpets. If you have a horn you'd like to sell on consignment, let us know. We would be happy to handle all of the photography, copywriting, SEO, customer inquiries, etc.

Take a look at some of our current listings:

Vintage Trumpet Restoration (Case Study)

brent@creativestate.com (Brent Lollis) — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 01:15:23 GMT

Bringing a well-loved Benge Claude Gordon back to life.

A few months back, I had a conversation with a new customer that led to an interesting project. He was in the market for a replacement for his old Benge Claude Gordon trumpet, a horn he had played extensively over the years. The trumpet held sentimental value, but time had taken its toll, and it was clear the instrument needed more than just a minor tune-up. While he was ready to move on to a new trumpet, I suggested something different: why not restore the old one?

He was intrigued but hesitant, citing the red rot in the leadpipe and the worn silver finish as major concerns. I asked him to send me some photos, and after assessing the condition, I offered to buy the trumpet for restoration. We struck a deal: I’d restore the trumpet, and he would have the first option to buy it back when it was finished.

Restoring vintage trumpets is a careful process, one that respects the original craftsmanship while breathing new life into the instrument. For this particular trumpet, we started by replacing the leadpipe with an exact copy of the original. The remaining silver plating was stripped away, and the body was meticulously cleaned and polished. We removed a few minor dents and then replated the entire trumpet, adding gold accents and a gold wash in the bell.

The result was a beautifully restored trumpet that looked and played as good as new. When I sent the photos of the completed work to the customer, he was thrilled. After a brief discussion with his wife, he decided to buy it back. Once he had the trumpet in hand, he took some time to play it and sent me a note, praising the workmanship and especially the gold detailing inside the bell:

"AWESOME BEAUTIFUL workmanship, and gold details are perfectly balanced! MOSTLY I love the gold on the inside of the bell. GORGEOUS, and it plays bright and tight, like I always loved about that horn. THANKS, Friend! You deserve a raise!"

This restoration wasn’t just about fixing up an old horn; it was about preserving a piece of the customer’s musical journey. Vintage trumpet restorations require a deep understanding of the instrument's history and a dedication to maintaining its unique character while improving its playability and appearance.

If you have a vintage trumpet that’s been well-loved but could use some attention, consider a professional restoration. It’s a way to extend the life of your instrument and continue making music with a horn that holds personal significance. Whether it’s for the sound, the look, or the sentimental value, restoring a vintage trumpet can be a rewarding experience that brings a treasured instrument back to its former glory.

Stay tuned for more restoration stories, and check out the before and after photos of this project below to see the transformation for yourself.

Restoring vintage trumpets is about more than just repair; it’s about preserving history, maintaining quality, exercising restraint when necessary, and ensuring that these instruments can continue to make music for decades to come. If you have a trumpet that could benefit from this kind of work, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always here to help restore your instrument to its best possible condition.

Ready to restore your vintage trumpet? Email store@heritagetrumpets.com or text 501-777-5594

Check out our selection of vintage Benge trumpets

Resources for Benge Fanatics

brent@creativestate.com (Brent Lollis) — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 00:55:14 GMT

Resources for Benge Fanatics

I bought my first Benge trumpet in high school. I bought it used from a local music store. I didn't know it then, but it was a very early LA Benge 3X. In the early 1990s, a trumpet friend of mine purchased a shiny new Benge trumpet. My used Benge and his bright, shiny Benge were the only two Benge trumpets I had seen up to that point.

After a few months and some "shrewd" negotiating, I convinced him to trade his virtually new Benge for my old, used one. I was frankly surprised that he jumped at the chance. I wish this was the only stupid mistake I had made in my life!

As you probably already know if you're reading this, the early 1990s UMI Benges were - let's just say - generally not as good as the LA Benges built in the early 1970s.

After playing the mediocre UMI Benge for a few months, I considered asking my friend if he'd be willing to trade back to our original horns. I didn't have the guts. We both knew who got best end of that deal!

I consider this episode the "Origin Story" for my love of Benge.

Since that time I have bought, played, restored, and sold hundreds of vintage Benge trumpets. One of my customers remarked a few months ago, "you probably have the largest Benge collection on the entire planet." I hadn't really thought of that and I'm not sure it's accurate. But my love of all things Benge has certainly taken me on an interesting journey where I have owned every Benge model ever advertised from the Chicago, Burbank, and LA periods.

As my passion for Benge heritage has grown, I've stumbled onto several Benge resources that I have found helpful. I thought I'd pass some of them on to you in hopes you don't make the same mistakes I've made along the way!

Benge Trumpet Fanatics (Facebook Group)
Joe Lill's Benge Resource Site
History of Elden Benge (EverythingTrumpet.com)
Elden Benge Wikipedia Page
Benge Timeline (BrassHistory.net)
A Tale of Two Burbanks (Bryan Douglas)

A New Resource: "The Benge Bot"

AI (Artificial Intelligence) is impacting more and more of our daily lives. Some of it is helpful, some of it is annoying, and some of it is - let's face it - kind of scary.

But it can also be a lot of FUN. I have created a new custom GPT with ChatGPT. It is trained on a wide variety of Benge data, including - with his permission - Joe Lill's exhaustive database of Benge facts, specs, purchase dates, serial numbers, etc.

You can ask the Benge Bot things like:

What is the history behind the Benge trumpet brand and its founder?
What are the key differences between Chicago Benge trumpets and those produced in Burbank?
Who were some of the famous trumpet players that used Benge trumpets?
What are the defining characteristics of a Los Angeles Benge trumpet?
When did Benge start and stop manufacturing trumpets in Los Angeles?
What serial number ranges correspond to Chicago, Burbank, and Los Angeles Benge trumpets?
What are the major design and production changes that occurred when Benge moved from Chicago to Burbank?
How did the ownership and management of Benge trumpets change over the years?
What makes the Burbank Benge trumpets highly sought after by collectors?
Who is the last recorded owner of Benge Serial Number 6729?

Anyone who has ever experimented with AI, knows that it is prone to make mistakes or state things as "facts" that are - in fact - not facts at all! So experiment with the Benge Bot with that in mind. But, it's a fun little tool for all the Benge nerds out there (like me).

All you need is a free ChatGPT account. (Sign up or login here: https://chatgpt.com/ )

Once you're logged in, follow this link to the Benge Bot: https://chatgpt.com/g/g-r8W3vH7R1-benge-trumpet-bot

And finally, here is a gallery with some vintage Benge ads and catalog pages:

We'll be adding to this post from time to time. Feel free to bookmark this page. If you have any Benge questions or suggestions for this page, feel free to email store@heritagetrumpets.com

Don't forget to take a look at the Benges on our site!

How to Pack a Trumpet for Shipment

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 23:40:02 GMT

TIPS FOR SECURELY PACKING A TRUMPET

Packing a Trumpet for Shipping to Ensure It Arrives Safely: A Step-by-Step Guide (VIDEO)

I’ve shipped and received hundreds of trumpets - some were shipped in cases, others were not. I have never had a horn damaged in shipping that was packed using the tips below. Others might have a different method, but this has worked well for me.

Start With a Sturdy Box
A double-wall box is best. Ensure the box is not damaged and is structurally intact. The box should be big enough that the trumpet can have approximately 2" of space on all sides.

Tape the Bottom of the Box
Use more tape than you think you need. Use at least 3 strips lengthwise and 3 strips widthwise. Alternate to form an overlapping lattice pattern.

If You Are Shipping in a Case: Secure the Trumpet
Add packing material (peanuts, bubble wrap, paper) inside the case to prevent the horn from jostling. Use enough material to keep the horn stable without forcing the case shut. Wrap loose items like mouthpieces separately and secure them inside the case or ship separately. It's important to note that most trumpets that are damaged in transit are damaged inside a trumpet case. If a trumpet rattles around inside a case for hundreds of miles, no amount of bubble wrap on the outside of the case can prevent it from being damaged.

If You Are Shipping Without a Case: Create a "Trumpet Burrito"
Wrap the trumpet in multiple layers of 1" bubble wrap. Alternate wrapping lengthwise and widthwise. Use more than you think you need. Ensure the bell and mouthpiece receiver are both covered well. Secure the bubble wrap in the middle and both ends with tape. Fold excess bubble wrap over the bell and mouthpiece receiver and secure with more tape.

Add Packing Peanuts to the Bottom of the Box
If shipping without a case, the goal is to surround the "trumpet burrito" with approximately 2" of additional packing material on all sides. Put packing material in the bottom of the box, place the trumpet in the box, and then add more packing material on all sides to secure the trumpet. I prefer packing peanuts, but you could also use paper, styrofoam, more bubble wrap, etc. If you have secured the trumpet within a hard trumpet case, you only need to use enough packing material to ensure the trumpet case doesn't bounce around inside the shipping box.
Seal the Box
Close the box and tape the top in the same manner that you taped the bottom forming a lattice pattern for strength and security.

Mark as FRAGILE
Ensure the box is clearly labeled as FRAGILE, either with stickers or by simply writing the word FRAGILE in large letters.
Add the Shipping Label
The shipping label should either be in a plastic sleeve with adhesive backing or should be fully covered in tape to prevent it from being damaged or torn off in transit. (Heritage Trumpets uses and recommends Shippo for great customer service, up to 90% off carrier prices, and reasonable insurance options.)

By following these steps, you can ensure your trumpet is well-protected during transit. Hope this helps!

Heritage Trumpets specializes in unique and vintage trumpets, and we're here to help you find an instrument that matches your needs and preferences.

Have questions? Send us an email or a text message
Looking for a vintage trumpet? Check out our store
Have a trumpet to sell? Tell us about it

Vintage or New - What's Right for You?

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 18:07:32 GMT

Vintage or New - What's Right for You?

If you are considering purchasing a trumpet you've probably asked yourself, " should I buy new or vintage? " This decision depends on various factors, including your personal preferences, budget, and how you intend to use the trumpet. Both new and vintage trumpets have their own unique advantages, and understanding these can help you make the best choice for your needs.

Craftsmanship and Quality

One of the main advantages of vintage trumpets is the craftsmanship and quality of materials used in their construction. Many vintage trumpets were made during a time when instrument manufacturing prioritized craftsmanship, durability and sound quality over mass production. These instruments often feature hand-crafted components and high-quality materials, which isn't always the case with modern mass-produced trumpets. It should also be noted that there are modern custom and bespoke trumpet makers that also deliver exceptional craftsmanship, incorporating advanced technology and high-quality materials. One of the most respected trumpet craftsmen in history was Domenick Calicchio. Check out this fascinating short film about how he built trumpets, one-at-a-time, by hand.

Sound Characteristics

Vintage trumpets are often praised for their unique sound, which can develop over time. The sound of a trumpet, whether new or vintage, depends on a variety of factors including its design, materials, mouthpiece selection, and your individual ability. Some players prefer the character and depth of tone that vintage trumpets can develop; others appreciate the precision and consistency offered by high-quality new trumpets.

Historical Value

Owning a unique, vintage trumpet can be like owning a piece of history. These instruments have often been played by musicians in various settings, from jazz clubs to concert halls, and carry with them a history and legacy that make them unique. For many players, the historical value of a vintage trumpet adds to the overall experience and enjoyment of playing.

Online Communities

There are vibrant online communities dedicated to the appreciation and preservation of vintage trumpets. These communities delve deep into the history, characteristics, and unique qualities of various vintage brands. For instance, the Bach Loyalist website provides a comprehensive resource on Bach trumpets, detailing historical models and their specific features. Similarly, Olds Central focuses on Olds trumpets, offering historical context, and model descriptions. If you're a Benge lover, Joe Lill's Chicago Benge Resource Site is dedicated to preserving the Benge legacy, featuring detailed histories, technical specifications, and the most comprehensive database of Benge trumpets available. These communities and resources not only celebrate the legacy of vintage trumpets but also provide valuable information for collectors and players alike.

Investment Potential

Vintage trumpets can also be a good investment. Unlike new instruments that generally depreciate in value over time, well-maintained vintage trumpets can retain or even increase in value. Collectors and musicians alike seek out these instruments, and a rare or particularly well-preserved vintage trumpet can be a valuable addition to any collection. On the other hand, bespoke new trumpets from renowned modern makers can also be valuable, sometimes commanding prices between $5,000 and $25,000 when new.

Aesthetic Appeal

There is no denying the aesthetic appeal of vintage trumpets. These instruments often feature unique designs, engravings, and finishes that set them apart from modern mass-produced trumpets. Whether you plan to add a vintage trumpet to your collection or you're going to play it regularly, vintage trumpets have a charm and beauty that many players find desirable.

Expectations

When purchasing a vintage trumpet (or any vintage instrument), it's important to set realistic expectations. If you want a pristine trumpet with no signs of previous use, a vintage horn may not be the best choice. Vintage trumpets carry with them a history that can include repair work and modifications. While some sellers may be able to provide extensive details about the instrument's past, including any known repairs or alterations, this information is not always available.

When purchasing a vintage trumpet online it is crucial to thoroughly review photographs and descriptions provided by the seller and ask questions to understand the trumpet's condition. Most vintage trumpets have signs of wear consistent with their age. If a minor scratch or evidence of past repair work is likely to disappoint you, a new trumpet might be more suitable. Managing these expectations can help you avoid dissatisfaction or disappointment.

Additional Considerations for Buying Vintage
(Patches, Pistons, and Pink Spots... Oh My!)

While there are many benefits to buying a vintage trumpet, there are some additional considerations to keep in mind.

Look for patches , which can sometimes indicate major underlying issues that aren't visible from the outside. However, sometimes what looks like a patch, is simply a preventative measure to slow the wear caused at the touch points on the trumpet. Knowing what you're looking for - or asking an expert - is important.
Ensure the valves and pistons are in good condition and have good compression . Poor compression can cause intonation and slotting problems, among other issues. There are several ways to test or gauge the compression on a vintage trumpet including $600 Magnehelic machines that are built specifically for this purpose. There are also some more low-tech methods .
Also, look for red rot - or dezincification. A common misconception in the trumpet community is that any sign of red rot is a "death sentence" for a trumpet. That is false . The initial signs of red rot, which can be small bubbles on a silver trumpet or red/pink spots on a lacquer trumpet likely will not impact the sound or playability of an instrument. If you purchase an instrument that has a few minor indications of red rot and you keep that instrument clean and dry, you will probably get many more years - if not decades - of use out of that trumpet with no repairs necessary. If the trumpet has widespread red rot or in the most severe cases, holes or leaks caused by red rot, that's a different story. Red rot mostly develops in places where saliva and condensation are allowed to collect and sit in the horn. The most common places for red rot to appear in a trumpet is in the leadpipe and the tuning slide crook near the water key. If you will take a cue from woodwind players and "swab out" after you play - you probably will never have issues with red rot and you can stop any existing red rot in its tracks!

The Bottom Line

Vintage trumpets offer a range of benefits, from superior craftsmanship and historical value to potential investment opportunities. Many new trumpets on the market today, especially those from custom and bespoke makers, are built with great craftsmanship, produce excellent sound quality, and can be significant investments in their own right. If you appreciate the qualities that come with age and history, a vintage trumpet might be the perfect choice for you.

Heritage Trumpets specializes in unique and vintage trumpets, and we're here to help you find an instrument that matches your needs and preferences.

Have questions? Send us an email or a text message
Looking for a vintage trumpet? Check out our store
Have a trumpet to sell? Tell us about it

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Play Smarter, Not Harder: Claude Gordon’s Take on Brass Playing

Why So Many Players Struggle

Deep Breathing

Correct = Easy

The 7 Things That Actually Matter

Nature Doesn’t Lie

Want to Try It? Start Here

Final Take

More to Explore:

CODA

10 Things You Might Not Know About Fats Navarro: A Jazz Legend Who Redefined Bebop

Here are 10 things you might not know about Fats Navarro:

1. A Unique Multicultural Background

2. Piano Came First

3. A Brief Stint with the Tenor Saxophone

4. The Nickname He Couldn’t Shake

5. A Lasting Influence on Clifford Brown

6. Legendary Sessions with Tadd Dameron

7. He Was Bilingual

8. Honored by Metronome Magazine

9. The Battle with Tuberculosis

10. His Trumpets of Choice

Essential Fats Navarro Performances:

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Are You Suspicious of Really Good Product Photos?

"Those photos are too good! Are they hiding something?"

"Will you send me some photos of that horn with no special effects?"

The "Studio"

The Camera

The Photo Editing

The Videos

The Final Product

Vintage Trumpet Restoration (Case Study)

Bringing a well-loved Benge Claude Gordon back to life.

"AWESOME BEAUTIFUL workmanship, and gold details are perfectly balanced! MOSTLY I love the gold on the inside of the bell. GORGEOUS, and it plays bright and tight, like I always loved about that horn. THANKS, Friend! You deserve a raise!"

Resources for Benge Fanatics

Resources for Benge Fanatics

A New Resource: "The Benge Bot"

And finally, here is a gallery with some vintage Benge ads and catalog pages:

Don't forget to take a look at the Benges on our site!

How to Pack a Trumpet for Shipment

TIPS FOR SECURELY PACKING A TRUMPET

Packing a Trumpet for Shipping to Ensure It Arrives Safely: A Step-by-Step Guide (VIDEO)

Vintage or New - What's Right for You?

Vintage or New - What's Right for You?

Craftsmanship and Quality

Sound Characteristics

Historical Value

Online Communities

Investment Potential

Aesthetic Appeal

Expectations

Additional Considerations for Buying Vintage (Patches, Pistons, and Pink Spots... Oh My!)

The Bottom Line

Additional Considerations for Buying Vintage
(Patches, Pistons, and Pink Spots... Oh My!)