Pocket trumpets are compact, portable versions of the standard trumpet designed for easy transport and practice on-the-go. Their small size and quieter volume make them ideal for travel or apartment playing, while still retaining the familiar trumpet’s tone. This in-depth guide covers everything about pocket trumpets – key features, how they differ from standard models, top recommended instruments, and what to look for when shopping for your own pocket trumpet.
What is a Pocket Trumpet?
A pocket trumpet is a small Bb trumpet that has been engineered for maximum portability while preserving the essential playing qualities of a traditional trumpet.
Key attributes include:
Small, compact size for take-anywhere playing
Shortened tubing wrapped in a tighter loop
Bell diameter reduced from 4.5″ to 3.5″ or less
Built from brass with lacquer or silver plating
3 piston valves for producing different notes
Same Bb tuning and pitch range as full size trumpet
Played using standard embouchure and breathing technique
Quieter volume suitable for practicing in close quarters
Pocket trumpets offer the familiar experience of playing a real brass trumpet in a travel-ready format. Their more discreet volume makes them ideal for practicing at home or on the road.
Table of Contents
Stagg WS TR245 Bb Pocket Trumpet with Case
- Stainless Steel Pistons
- Package Dimensions: 31.75 H x 8.89 L x 11.684 W (centimeters)
- Package Weight: 2.041 kilograms
Stagg WS TR245 is the Best Pocket Trumpets. It’s well-made and has a good polished look thanks to the clear lacquer finish. The bell has a wonderful curve to it, and despite being smaller (less profound) than a conventional trumpet, it can still fit a tiny mute within.
The valves are composed of stainless steel and perform well, however we think licking it into shape will take a few oiling sessions. Some individuals say they’re a touch short-lived, but because it’s such a sturdy core-piece, we recommend having it serviced with a heavier set of springs. The slides are likewise in good working order, with correct tuning and excellent intonation, something some low-cost versions lack. It’s in the key of Bb, which is a normal trumpet key, so you can easily switch between them. The only noticeable difference is its smaller size.
It comes with two water keys and a good mouthpiece labeled 7c and modeled like a Bach 7c mouthpiece. It has an unexpected tone, akin to that of a cornet, with good depth and presence. Because of its small size and 4.13″ diameter bell, it’s ideal for traveling, which is why so many people choose this pocket trumpet. The 245 has a thumb saddle on the third valve and two waterkeys, same as its Stagg-made relative on this list. The brass leadpipe and stainless steel valves of this trumpet in Bb key make it sturdy and capable of producing smooth, almost easy notes with slide action valves.
This tiny trumpet’s ease of play makes it an ideal instrument for students or players wanting to return to the profession after a long absence. For any situation, this is a charming little trumpet that will repay your efforts. This is the Best Pocket Trumpet in 2023.
CAROL BRASS CPT-3000-GLS-Bb-BG”BlackHawk” Pocket Trumpet
- .460 bore, key of Bb
- Black Nickel with 24K gold trim, large 4.724" gold brass bell
- first and third thumb hooks for tuning with either hand
This second model is a high-end model made by a family-owned business with a smaller-scale manufacturing setup that still handcrafts the bulk of parts for superior quality control. It’s a striking artwork with its deeper tones, earning it the moniker “Black Hawk.” The genuine 24k gold trim complements the blackened nickel, making this a stylish and sturdy alternative with a higher price tag.
The tubes have a 460 bore and are in the standard Bb key, but the coils are more tightly twisted to give it its pocket-sized appeal. It has two water keys to assist maintain it clean and sanitary. The bottoms are weighted.
The valves have a very tight tolerance and are made of stainless steel for an anti-oxidant advantage. They run smoothly and provide excellent playability for the horn. It has a distinct tone that complements but does not overpower a horn section with great projection. It comes with its own protective case, cleaning cloth, and lubrication oil, as well as a 3c mouthpiece.
The mouthpiece, T2 valve oil, and Ultra-Pure tuning slide grease are included in the kit. There’s also a neat-looking black carrying case to store all of your supplies in one place, including a polishing cloth and a guidebook. With a yellow brass lead pipe and a clear lacquer finish, the valves on this small CarolBrass pocket trumpet are stainless steel and long-lasting. A Lee II Amado water key is included in this professional-model huge bell for enhanced projection and maintenance.
With a 4.724″ bell diameter, this pocket trumpet is ideal for stage performance and will provide you with a rich and varied tone. This smart-looking pocket trumpet will give you outstanding, cost-effective performance, and it’s a terrific option for an intermediate to advanced player searching for a higher-quality instrument. This is the Best Pocket Trumpets in 2023.
Sky Band Approved Brass Bb Pocket Trumpet with Case
- Sky Band Approved Bb Pocket Trumpet with Case, Cloth, Gloves and Valve Oil, Guarantee Top Quality Sound
- This trumpet is beautiful and well engineered, precise fits and perfect round tubing resulting in less turbulence and smooth air flow
- Phosphorus copper on entire body, found on professional trumpets One time drawn body, therefore there are no seams found on this high grade dual tone...
Our next pick is a tough-as-nails model that is both reliable and safe on the road. It’s labeled as Sky Band approved because they helped create, sell, and perform with the trumpet. It has a one-time drawn body, which means there are no seams and provides unrivaled durability when compared to its competitors. It has a lovely sound with a lot of depth, it’s in the key of Bb, and it’s built with precision valve fittings.
The mouthpiece is not the only part of the body with a phosphor copper finish. This raises the overall standard of excellence. The valves glide smoothly and produce a professional dual-tone sound.
It features a stunning black surface with a design that exposes some of the curving tubing, revealing a golden brass underneath. The mouthpiece and keys are both silver, making it a wonderful eye-catcher. It is packaged in a high-quality carry case with velvet padding, a cloth, a pair of gloves, and a complementary bottle of valve oil.
Roy Benson MOD.PT-302 BB
- Bell Ø 125 mm, Gold brass leadpipe, Stainless steel pistons
- Top spring action, Two point nylon valve guides
- Thumb ring on 3rd valve slide, Nickel silver outer slides
This is a small 9.1-inch trumpet with a 4.9-inch bell that produces a triumphant, clarion-like projection with rich character pocket trumpet brands. It has a gold brass lead-pipe that has been precisely drilled. The valves offer good resistance, but they’ve been flattened out to make playing them a breeze. They have two-point nylon shaped guides for smoother glide and are equipped with high-quality stainless steel pistons with top-loaded spring action.
The third valve slide features a thumb ring, is composed of high-quality brass, and has nickel-plated silver outer slides with a lacquered finish. It has two separate water keys for easy maintenance. It has a high-quality mouthpiece with an anti-rust finish, as well as a light-weight carrying case.
Mendini MPT-L Gold Lacquer Brass Bb Pocket Trumpet + Tuner
- Gold lacquer Bb pocket trumpet with 7C mouthpiece
- 0.46 inch bore and 3.75 inch bell, comfortable white faux mother of pearl inlaid buttons
- Phosphorus copper used on lead mouth pipe (found on expensive trumpets) & smooth action valves
The Medini MPT-L pocket trumpet is a low-cost choice that makes a great first instrument for beginners. It has a lovely gold lacquer finish that, when combined with the imitation mother of pearl inlaid valve buttons, creates a snappy, classy-looking pocket trumpet that will get you noticed!
This package includes a plush-lined and hardshell box, a compact stand, chromatic tuner, a pair of gloves, a copper mouth pipe, a cleaning cloth, and valve oil, making it ideal for students and novices. It also includes a one-year warranty.
For a genuine playing sensation and instrument response, the mouth pipe is designed in the same style as more expensive full-sized trumpets. Even though the 3.75″ bell is one of the tiniest on our list storage case, it nevertheless packs a punch! This Bb pocket trumpet is easy to play and sounds best with warmer notes rather than brassy tones.
While the trumpet itself is composed of lower-quality materials, weighs more than the normal 5 pounds, and produces a lower-quality sound, the whole set of accessories at an affordable price makes it the ideal introductory instrument.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the tone compare to a standard trumpet?
The tone is very close but the smaller bore and bell on a pocket trumpet reduce projection slightly, giving it a more mellow tone. Intonation is also a bit more temperamental.
What genres work best with pocket trumpets?
Pocket trumpets excel in mellower styles like jazz, funk, R&B, soul, and pop rather than louder settings like concert bands. Their volume suits acoustic ensembles well.
Are pocket trumpets appropriate for students?
Yes, pocket trumpets work great as a student’s first instrument. The smaller size is less intimidating and allows younger kids to hold the horn comfortably.
What maintenance do pocket trumpets require?
Routine care like occasional baths, valve oiling, and polishing. Take extra care not to dent or drop the instrument since repairs are challenging on smaller horns.
Can you mute pocket trumpets?
Yes, standard trumpet mutes fit in the bell of most pocket trumpets to further dampen the volume when desired. Felt mutes are commonly used.
Do you need to oil pocket trumpet valves?
Yes, regularly applying valve oil is essential to keep pocket trumpet valves smooth and prevent sticking. This preserves air seal and playability.
Are pocket trumpets louder than cornets?
No, pocket trumpets will play at a similar volume level to cornets. Neither is well suited for loud ensemble playing without amplification.
Can pocket trumpets play high register notes?
Yes, skilled players can hit notes in the trumpet’s highest registers on pocket models but the tone may be compromised compared to larger horns.