Trumpet

The Trumpet Family with mutes

A trumpet is a common musical instrument in the brass family, which includes the cornet, French horn, trombone, baritone, euphonium, and tuba, among others. It is the highest sounding member of the group because it has the shortest pipe. Sound is made by vibrating one's lips against the mouthpiece.

The trumpet is one of the most versatile instruments, as it is commonly featured in classical orchestras, military bands, marching bands, jazz bands, as well as for fanfares (Reveille, Taps).

The trumpet's roots go back to ancient Rome, when simple bugles (trumpets with no valves) were used for fanfares. The instrument type had a revival in the Renaissance, when music became popular once again. Throughout the 16th through 19th centuries the design was refined to include valves and a standardized size.