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Most, not all, C trumpets play more in tune with 1 & 3 for D above middle C, then 2 & 3 for Eb, then 1 & 2 for E. Doesn't matter much what key you are in; if the note is flatter than a pancake, it's going to sound bad in any key. For most players, I think lipping up is harder than lipping down.

I never use 3 alone on a C. I use 3 alone a lot on a Bb trumpet or flugel, though, mostly for speed.




Matt, I got a refinished Olds & Son Bf Trumpet this Christmas. Since I've had it, it seems like D (above middle C fingered with valve #1), plays flat. In other words, seems like I've got to constantly lip-up as you say. Everything else seems to sound 'normal'. Do you think I might have a valve problem here?


Ike