If you were recently in New York, but weren’t able to traverse Park Avenue during your visit, you probably missed a brilliant musical performance. An article from BrooklynRail.org explains further:
On a late summer Sunday in early August, New Yorkers strolling along Park Avenue were treated to the force of 92 trumpets lined along both sides of the streets, from 46th to 72nd, performing the site specific version of Craig Shepard’s “Trumpet City, Trumpet City: Park Avenue”.
While the idea of hearing nearly one hundred trumpeters lining the streets for several consecutive city blocks might sound overwhelming, the actual performance was the opposite. Individual long tones emanated from each performer, reflected off the buildings, and collectively merged into one continuous, shimmering sonic experience.
In recent years, many bands, such as Capital Cities, have been including trumpeters in their lineups. The popularity of trumpets in mainstream music, alongside incredible performances like the one in Park Avenue, New York, will undoubtedly influence many children and teenagers to try their hand at the popular brass instrument—surely, welcome news among trumpet manufacturers.
If you will be mass producing trumpets in the near future, be sure to take into account the fact that majority of your sales will come from beginners, so the amount of student trumpets to be manufactured may be significantly higher than the amount of intermediate or professional trumpets.
Prioritize Quality of Sound and Durability
Although technology has allowed for the creation of plastic trumpets, many professional trumpeters still prefer the ones made of high-quality brass sheet metal due to the better range of notes of the latter. Generally, this is something that is influenced by your manufacturing method.
As for durability, using a yellow brass channel (70-30 copper to zinc ratio) from an established supplier like Rotax Metals should go a long way in guaranteeing the longevity of the instruments you manufacture. If you do not want to use yellow brass, ask your supplier for other alternatives that work well with trumpets.
No Rainbows
As much as possible, retain the metallic finish of your instruments. While colorful or rainbow finishes can attract young children, many music instructors advise their students to stay clear from colorful trumpets (and other brass instruments) as the color scheme can hide corrosion and other manufacturing problems.
A metallic finish also offers a classic and elegant appeal. This is an important feature as children will typically use their first trumpet for three to four years, opening up the possibility of the learners outgrowing a colorful design.
(Source: Trumpet Tones, City Streets BrooklynRail.org; October 3, 2014)
