Trumpet Lessons
Begin your musical journey at Long & McQuade with private and online Trumpet Lessons for students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are learning the Trumpet for the first time or you already have experience, our expert teachers will help you reach your goals in a professional, encouraging environment.
Register NowWhy Choose Long & McQuade for Trumpet Lessons?
Train with experienced trumpet instructors who teach all ages and styles. Learn in comfortable studios equipped with on-site practice rooms. Enjoy flexible scheduling with daytime, evening, and weekend options that accommodate your schedule. As a trusted name in music education across Canada, Long & McQuade offers a reliable path to your goals.
What Trumpet Topics Will I Learn?
Playing an instrument like the Trumpet is a lifelong skill. The topics below outline what many students study, but your path will be uniquely personalized to your goals. Whether your goal is to play for personal enjoyment, perform on stage, or prepare for a professional path, our trumpet lessons give you the foundation and guidance to grow as a musician.
Beginner & Intermediate Topics
- Proper embouchure, breath support, and posture
- Finger placement and hand position for comfort and accuracy
- Producing a clear tone across the Trumpet's range
- Reading music, rhythm, and basic notation
- Playing scales, arpeggios, and simple melodies
- Developing articulation skills such as tonguing and slurring
- Introduction to dynamics, phrasing, and expressive playing
- Performing beginner pieces in jazz, pop, classical, or contemporary styles
- Playing along with songs and in small group settings
Advanced & Professional Topics
- Expanding range, tone control, and technical fluency
- Advanced scales, modes, improvisation, and extended repertoire
- Jazz standards, classical repertoire, and contemporary solo works
- Developing vibrato, endurance, and stylistic interpretation
- Working on advanced articulation, such as double tonguing and complex phrasing
- Ensemble and band performance skills, including blend and balance
- Audition and exam preparation for RCM, school, or professional opportunities
- Techniques for recording, live performance, and stage confidence
Any Age | Any Stage | Any Style
Trumpet Lessons for Kids
Ages 8-12
What to Expect for Kids Learning Trumpet
- Age-appropriate trumpet lessons with fun exercises, games, and simple songs
- Positive encouragement to build confidence and enjoyment of music
- Focus on proper breathing, posture, and tone production
- Introduction to reading music and playing with a steady rhythm
- Option to learn casually or prepare for formal music exams
Learning Outcomes
- Recognize trumpet sounds and play simple melodies with correct fingerings
- Develop strong breath control and a clear, consistent tone
- Improve focus, patience, and coordination through regular practice
- Gain confidence performing through optional recitals and group activities
Trumpet Lessons for Teens
Ages 13-18
What to Expect for Teens Learning Trumpet
- Personalized song choices in jazz, classical, rock, pop, or contemporary styles
- Preparation for RCM exams, school auditions, or ensemble participation
- Support for school music programs, talent shows, or recording projects
Learning Outcomes
- Develop creative independence and a strong musical identity
- Build confidence, focus, and discipline through consistent practice
- Use music as a positive outlet to manage stress and support well-being
- Gain a lifelong skill that supports both personal and academic growth
Trumpet Lessons for Adults
Ages 19+
What to Expect for Adults Learning Trumpet
- A Flexible, Enjoyable Approach to Learning
- Choose from a wide range of lesson times, including evenings, weekends, and daytime options.
- Learn the music you love from jazz, pop, classical, or even film soundtracks
- No exams required unless you'd like to set a personal goal
- Lessons focused on enjoyment, growth, and relaxation at your own pace
Learning Outcomes
- Relieve stress and support mental wellness through music
- Improve coordination, memory, focus, and creativity
- Develop a rewarding hobby that fits your lifestyle and schedule
- Enjoy steady progress, confidence, and the joy of playing trumpet
"I've always wanted to learn, but I don't have a trumpet."
This is one of the most common concerns we hear, and the good news is
you don't need to own a trumpet to take lessons.
At Long & McQuade, we make it easy for beginners to get started
without the pressure of buying an instrument right away. We offer
affordable trumpet rentals and will help you choose the right model
for your needs. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Understanding the Different Types of Trumpets
If you're thinking about starting trumpet lessons, here's a simple guide to the main types of trumpets. Each has its own sound, size, and role in music, from beginner learning to advanced performance.
B♭ Trumpet
The most common Trumpet for beginners and professionals alike. The B♭ trumpet has a bright, versatile tone and is used in school bands, orchestras, jazz groups, and solo playing. Its size and playability make it the best starting point for most students.
C Trumpet
Slightly smaller and higher in pitch than the B♭ trumpet, the C trumpet is popular in orchestral and advanced classical music. It requires precise playing and is often chosen by intermediate and advanced students.
Piccolo Trumpet
Much smaller and higher-pitched, the piccolo trumpet produces a brilliant, sharp sound. It is often heard in baroque and solo repertoire. This Trumpet is best suited for advanced players with strong embouchure control.
Flugelhorn Trumpet
Similar in range to the B♭ trumpet but with a warmer, mellower tone. The flugelhorn is often used in jazz, brass bands, and lyrical solo works. Teen and adult students may enjoy it for its smooth, expressive sound.
"How do I Pick the Right Trumpet Teacher?"
Choosing the right trumpet teacher is one of the most essential parts
of your musical journey. At Long & McQuade, we believe a great
instructor is not only experienced but also the right fit for your
goals, personality, and learning style.
Whether you're a parent looking for an instructor for your child, a
teen interested in a particular music style, or an adult learner
seeking a new hobby, Long & McQuade will help you find the perfect
teacher for your trumpet lessons.
Choosing the Right Program at Long & McQuade
Private Trumpet Lessons
Private Trumpet Lessons at Long & McQuade are one-on-one with weekly 30- or 60-minute sessions. Your instructor creates a personalized learning plan tailored to your skills and goals. Flexible scheduling makes it easy to fit practice into busy weeks. Private lessons are suitable for students starting at age 8.
Online Trumpet Lessons
Online Trumpet Lessons at Long & McQuade are one-on-one with weekly 30-, 45- or 60-minute sessions. Your instructor creates a personalized learning plan tailored to your skills and goals. Flexible scheduling makes it easy to fit practice into busy weeks. Online lessons are suitable for students starting at age 8.
"Should I take any Exams or Tests?"
It really depends on your goals and how you learn best.
Exams are always optional for trumpet students. For those who want
structured milestones and formal recognition of their progress, music
exams can be a valuable choice.
In Canada, there are a few main exam boards that students often
participate in, including the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM). These
programs provide a clear path for developing skills in performance,
technique, and theory, while offering students a sense of achievement
at each level.
Most Popular Exam Options in Canada
Exams can help students stay motivated, track progress, and gain a
sense of achievement. They also provide valuable credentials that can
be used for school credit or future opportunities in music.
Not every student needs to pursue exams; some prefer to play for fun
or focus on performing. But for those who enjoy having goals, exams
are an excellent way to celebrate progress and build confidence.
Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM)
The Royal Conservatory of Music is Canada’s leading music education and examination system, offering structured programs that guide students from beginner to advanced levels. The Royal Conservatory of Music trumpet exams develop tone, range, articulation, and dynamic control while building strong musicianship through graded repertoire and technical studies. RCM trumpet exams are recognized across Canada and may qualify for high-school credit in several provinces, making them an excellent academic and artistic benchmark.
ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music)
The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) is a UK-based examining body with international recognition, including exams in Canada. ABRSM’s trumpet exams progress from Grade 1 through Grade 8, followed by diploma-level performance and teaching qualifications. Each assessment covers prepared repertoire, scales, sight reading, and aural tests. With its global credibility and emphasis on musical interpretation, ABRSM is a strong option for students pursuing classical or academic music paths.
Trinity College London
Trinity College London is a UK-based music education board offering trumpet exams for students in Canada. Its trumpet syllabus includes exams from Initial through Grade 8, with diplomas available for advanced performers. Trinity’s exam structure allows students to choose between traditional graded exams or performance-only options, providing flexibility for different goals and learning styles. The program emphasizes tonal clarity, stylistic expression, and real-world musicianship, making it ideal for players interested in both classical and modern brass performance.
"How can I be successful in my Trumpet Lessons?"
It's all about being consistent with practice.
The students who grow the most on their musical journey are the ones who practice regularly. Practicing for even just a few minutes a day can make a big difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
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