The summer months are very important in your development as a trumpet player. Many students will leave their trumpet in the case in a closet for 2-3 months which is a terrible idea! Can you imagine not walking or running for 2-3 months and then trying to run a 5K or 10K? If you don’t play your trumpet all summer, that is essentially what you are doing to yourself! We use facial muscles to play the trumpet and as with any other muscle in the body, if you don’t use it then you lose it. So, it is vital that you practice your trumpet to at least maintain the growth and endurance that you had during the school year. Check out these tips for practicing over the summer:

1. Listening

When I was in middle and high school, I did not realize the importance of listening to professional trumpet players. When you first learned to talk, you did so from listening to your parents and others. There are many speaking accents throughout the world and those are passed on from generation to generation through children listening to those around them and recreating what they’ve heard in their head through their voice. The same is true with the trumpet. My tone and sound are similar to my private teachers’ sounds as well as the trumpet players that I’ve listened to the most. Take time this summer to listen to artists like Allen Vizzutti, Michael Sachs, Hakan Hardenberger, Wayne Bergeron, and others to find your sound. See which artist you like best and dive deep into their recordings!

2. Find a private teacher

If you are looking to really improve during the summer, then I highly recommend finding a private teacher. There are so many great trumpet teachers within the Indianapolis region as well as throughout the state of Indiana! We have a list of private teachers on our website, but you can also reach out to your band director to see if they have someone that they recommend. One of the major advantages of taking private lessons is the one-on-one training that you receive. In band class, there are so many other students in the band as well as the trumpet section that your teacher is trying to work with. In most cases, they don’t have time to help you on an individual basis with your sound, range, articulation, or other fundamentals that are key for your success as a trumpet player. If you have trouble finding a private teacher, feel free to reach out to me directly and I am more than happy to help.

3. Listen to online masterclasses or podcasts

In our current world, we have some incredible resources online that you can use to help grow as a trumpet player! There are many colleges and competitions that post masterclasses that different artists have held. There are also a few trumpet-related podcasts available to listen to that go into details on playing the trumpet. I highly recommend searching for your favorite artist with the word “masterclass” after their name on YouTube and see what comes up. You may be surprised with what you find! If you need any recommendations, feel free to e-mail me and I am happy to provide some recommendations!

4. Play your trumpet!

The most important summer practice tip is to play your trumpet! Like I said in the introduction, it is vital for you to play your trumpet over the summer. If you don’t play your trumpet, you risk injuring yourself when school starts back up especially if you are going to be in marching band. Set small goals for yourself to start and grow your practice time from there. Maybe just warm up every day for one week and then the following week play some of your favorite pieces from the previous year or look up your favorite song online to find sheet music for it. I personally recommend practicing in 15-20-minute chunks for 30-60 minutes per day. If you do that and use your time wisely, I guarantee you will feel ready for band class in the fall.

Make the most of your summer by actively engaging in these practice tips, ensuring you start the next school year at your best.

With the school year right around the corner, now is the perfect time to make sure you are ready with the supplies needed! We’ve got a great stock of everything that you’ll need to have up for the start of the school year. Here’s my recommendations for your back-to-school list:

1. Clean your Trumpet

The summer is the perfect time to make sure your trumpet is ready to go for the school year. We highly recommend having your trumpet cleaned and serviced once a year. While the exterior of your trumpet may look fine, there are likely spots with build-up inside from playing during the school year that you will want to have cleaned out to prevent future issues. We can provide a loaner for the week it will take to clean and repair the trumpet to make sure you are able to practice!

2. Valve Oil

It is very important to make sure that you have at least one full bottle of valve oil for the start of the school year. You should be putting oil on your trumpet valves at least once a week to make sure that they stay in tip-top shape! We have a wonderful selection of different valve oil brands for you to select from in our store.

3. Slide Grease

Many trumpet players forget about the importance of slide grease. You want to make sure that all of your slides are moving properly. If your slides are starting to slow down or even stick, start by wiping down the slides and then put a fresh thin coat of slide grease on them to make sure they’re moving well again! Pro Tip: If you want your slides to move faster, add a little bit of valve oil on top of the thin layer of slide grease. If you still have issues with the slides sticking after using grease, then you probably will need to check in your instrument for repair to have it cleaned and make sure that there are no dents or issues causing it to stick.

4. Mutes

We have a wonderful selection of mutes in our store from straight to practice or cup to harmon mutes, we have you covered! Each mute has a special function. If you live in an apartment or small house, you may consider getting one of our practice mutes to lower the noise level when practicing. Harmon mutes are usually used in jazz band and cup mutes are also a staple in jazz band but some concert band music will ask for them to be used as well. Stop in today to see our great selection!

5. Trumpet Stand

Trumpet stands are a great way to safely place your trumpet down when taking a break from practicing or in band class. You do not want to set your trumpet on your chair because it will likely fall onto the ground and that will create dents on the instrument. Students that place their trumpets on the ground also risk them being stepped on. So, the best fix for these situations is a trumpet stand. Most trumpet stands can also fit inside the bell of your trumpet when storing it away in the case! We have a great selection of trumpet stand options in our store.

6. New Case

During the back-to-school season, most students are looking for a new backpack to take to class. This year, I recommend checking out a new case! We have a great selection of new cases if you want to stand out when heading back to school. Stop by today or call for more information!

Be fully prepared for back-to-school with Paige’s Music. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, our selection is designed to ensure you have the best possible start to the new school year.

These are exciting times at Paige’s Music! Our trumpet inventory is growing! We have more trumpet models in stock than ever before, and I am so excited to share the models that we have in inventory that we’ve received over the last year. These trumpets are amazing and while we plan to keep them in stock regularly, some of these models have a longer wait time from the manufacturer because of their popularity in the trumpet industry. So, if you see a trumpet that you are interested in, reach out to me first to make sure that it is still available, then, stop by the store to try them out! Check out this list ordered by the manufacturer of our new inventory!

Bach

170S43GYR

This Bach 170 model features a new 6R lead pipe that has a very quick response. This trumpet is a lot of fun to play. The main difference between the 170 line and the 180 is the bell. The bell of the trumpet is one of the hardest and most time-consuming pieces to make on the trumpet. So, this model features a 2-piece bell. The stem of the bell is gold brass while the flare is yellow brass. This combination creates a great sound. If you love the Bach sound but are looking for something a little more affordable, this is the model for you!

180S37R

There are a few models that most students and parents come in asking for when looking to get a professional trumpet. One of those models is the Bach Stradivarius model 37. The 180S37R features that iconic model 37 sound with a reverse lead pipe. This model was a lot of fun to play. I highly recommend checking it out!

19037

The Mount Vernon Bach trumpets are some of the most sought-after in the industry. This 190 series model 37 has a very similar construction to those trumpets featuring a Mount Vernon style bell construction. This trumpet is so easy to play and has that iconic Bach sound. If you are looking to get a trumpet that will immediately take you to the next level in your playing, this is the trumpet to try out today.

C180SL229CC

There have been many updates to the Bach trumpet line that have many in the trumpet industry talking and even coming in to try out these trumpets. We are so excited to have in their “Chicago” model C Trumpet. This trumpet is easy to play and has great resonance. I really enjoyed trying this trumpet out and it is definitely one to check out if you are looking for a new C Trumpet!

Conn

1FG

The Conn Vintage one flugelhorn is one of the best flugelhorns on the market. I had the pleasure of taking lessons from Fred Powell in high school who helped design this incredible instrument. So, it is very exciting for me personally to now have this awesome flugelhorn in stock. If you have never tried the Conn Vintage One, you are missing out. This flugelhorn is so easy to play, has a great tone, and plays in tune throughout the register. This is a can’t miss flugel to try!

Blessing

BFH1541RT

When we got this model into our store for the first time, I put it on display. On that very day, it sold. This flugelhorn is gorgeous with the matte finish, and it is so much fun to play. The flugelhorn is one of my favorite instruments within the trumpet family to play and this Blessing flugelhorn has a wonderful sound. The rose brass bell and lead pipe create a wonderful combination. This flugelhorn is one you need to try if you are looking to get a flugelhorn!

P. Mauriat

PMT71M

P. Mauriat is a newer brand to Paige’s Music trumpet inventory. We had the PMT-72M in stock as well, but that model sold very quickly. The PMT-71 features a gold brass sound with a beautiful matte finish. This model is a lot of fun to play and while it looks like a jazz trumpet, it has a wonderful sound, response, and intonation that classical players also look for. The case is one of the best cases that I’ve seen a trumpet come with.

S. E. Shires

TRA-S

We are so excited to showcase some of S. E. Shires’ best trumpets here at Paige’s Music! The Model A is a pleasure to play with its wonderful sound, flexibility, and ease of response. If you haven’t tried out a Shires trumpet, this should be the model that you start with. The model A bell has a centered bell taper that produces a more focused sound but also projects very well. I highly recommend trying out this model.

TRAZ-S

This variation of the Model A trumpet has a slight change to the bell compared to the Model A that makes a big difference in playability and sound. The Model AZ has a great sound and projection that makes it easy to play in any ensemble and on any genre. This model was one that stood out to me personally at ITG and I am so excited to have it in stock for our customers to try!

TRCVLA-ML

The CVLA model is a vintage Los Angeles style trumpet. This model is promoted as being a commercial trumpet and while it is a commercial horn, it still plays great as a classical or chamber instrument. I’ve really enjoyed spending time playing this trumpet and it is definitely one to try out.

Yamaha

YTR8445IIS

Here at Paige’s, we have always had a great stock of Yamaha B-flat trumpets and I am so excited to share about the C trumpets that we are now carrying! Yamaha is known for a high level of craftsmanship and trumpets that are easy to play. This C trumpet fits in line with those expectations. The standard Xeno C trumpet is very easy to play and features a wonderful sound with projection, clear articulations, and great intonation. If you are looking for a C trumpet but don’t have the money to purchase a custom artist model, this is a great trumpet to look at!

YTR9445CHSIII

The Yamaha Xeno Artist model trumpets are some of the most sought-after trumpets on the market. We are so excited to have a few of these in stock! The Yamaha Chicago model features a reverse tuning slide which has incredible response. This C trumpet is one of my personal favorite C trumpets on the market. It is so easy to play, has a huge sound, and has great intonation. There is a reason why this model is used in orchestras throughout the world.

YTR9445NYSYSIII

The New York model C trumpets are some of the most popular C trumpets on the planet. The YS bell has a different flare than the YM bell which creates a slightly different feel and sound. This trumpet is so much fun to play. It has that classic Yamaha sound with incredible intonation. This is a trumpet that would have made my life so much easier through college and graduate school!

YTR-9825

As our trumpet inventory is expanding, we could not leave out the piccolo trumpet! We are so excited to have a Yamaha custom piccolo trumpet in stock! This trumpet has a wonderful sound as well as great intonation. It’s a lot of fun to play! The fourth valve takes a little bit of time getting used to, but this short bell piccolo trumpet is one of the best piccolo trumpets I’ve played. It comes with two sets of lead pipes, one for cornet mouthpieces and another for trumpet mouthpieces.

We want to hear from you!

If there are any other models that you would like to see Paige’s Music carry within the intermediate or professional trumpet category, let us know in the comments!

NFA 2023 Photo by: Tim Trumble

It’s almost my favorite time of the year: the National Flute Association 2024 Convention! At the end of July, I will be traveling to San Antonio, TX to be surrounded by all things flute! My first time attending the NFA convention was in 2023, and it was one of the most inspiring events I have ever been to. Flute players from all over the world come together for sessions, masterclasses, performances, and exhibits. It is a time where online friends meet in person for the first time, and people get to meet flutists they have always looked up to.

While I’m still working on finalizing which sessions I will attend, here are a few I’m SUPER excited about:

• Involve yoga for musicians
• Irish flute (one of my favorite sessions from last year!),
• Orchestral auditions and masterclass, extended techniques, and
• And a ton of concerts by various flute ensembles and soloists throughout the convention.

I’m also excited to try out some flutes by the wonderful exhibitors and see what I would like to bring into our flute shop. Stay tuned!

Are you attending the NFA Convention this year? Let me know and I’d love to meet you!

They say to never bring your home work with you, but no one ever said anything , we had the pleasure of sitting down with Florent Milhaud, the saxophone product manager for Henri SELMER Paris. In this insightful interview, Florent shares his journey from being a passionate saxophone player to leading the product management team at one of the most prestigious saxophone manufacturers in the world. With over 15 years of experience, Florent gives us a glimpse into the meticulous process of research and development at the historical SELMER factory in Montville, near Paris.

From Player to Product Manager

Florent Milhaud’s journey began as a saxophone player, where his love for the instrument eventually led him to his current role. He speaks about the immense privilege and responsibility he feels in managing the saxophone product line at Henri Selmer Paris, a brand synonymous with quality and innovation in the world of wind instruments.

Innovation at SELMER’s Historical Factory

The SELMER factory in Mantes-la-Ville, located about 50 kilometers from Paris, has been the birthplace of SELMER saxophones since the 1920s. Florent explains the importance of this historical site, where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly. The factory is home to a dedicated research and development team that has worked tirelessly on the latest generation of saxophones, including the “Supreme” alto and tenor models, as well as the newly released “Signature” Models.

These new models, launched in 2021 and 2023 respectively, represent the pinnacle of saxophone design and craftsmanship. Florent and his team are proud of these instruments, which they believe will set the standard for the next 30 years.

Embracing the Secondhand Market

Florent also highlights SELMER’s initiatives in the secondhand market. Recognizing the value and demand for vintage SELMER instruments, the company has started “REWIND”, a project to restore and resell these historical pieces. From clarinets to trumpets, and even guitars, SELMER’s secondhand program ensures that their legacy instruments continue to be cherished and played by new generations of musicians.

An Invitation to Visit SELMER in Paris

For those visiting Paris, Florent extends a warm invitation to the SELMER showroom located in the picturesque Montmartre district. This showroom is a testament to the brand’s rich heritage and commitment to excellence. Visitors can explore the latest models and see firsthand the craftsmanship that goes into each SELMER instrument.

Florent Milhaud’s dedication to advancing the art of saxophone making is truly inspiring. His insights into the development process, the importance of preserving historical instruments, and the future of SELMER saxophones offer a fascinating look into the world of high-quality musical instrument manufacturing.

If you’re ever in Paris, don’t miss the chance to visit the SELMER showroom. For more information, visit their website and plan your visit. Stay tuned to our blog for more interviews and updates from the world of music!

We are thrilled to announce the arrival of two exceptional Selmer Paris Alto Saxophones: the Selmer Paris “Axos” and the Selmer Paris “Signature”. These instruments offer superior quality and performance for musicians of all levels. Read on to learn more about what makes these models stand out and how you can experience them firsthand.

The Selmer Paris “Axos”: The Accessible Professional Choice
The Seles Axos saxophone is made in the Henri Selmer Paris factory located in Mantes-la-Ville, France, the same factory where all other Selmer models have been crafted since 1922. Like all top-of-the-range Henri Selmer Paris instruments, the Axos continues the tradition of craftsmanship while integrating new industrial techniques.

Features:

• The “Axos” is made with the same quality metals as other Henri Selmer Paris saxophones.
• The treatment of the strategic part of the saxophone, the bore, in Selmer’s metal workshops is as rigorous as the treatment of their professional models.
• This ensures that the Henri Selmer Paris sound identity—a delicate balance between rich harmonics and roundness of sound—is found in the “Axos”.

Despite its affordability, the “Axos” doesn’t compromise on quality. Known for its rich, dark tonal quality, this saxophone suits a wide range of musical styles and skill levels. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking for a “forever” instrument that grows with them over time.

The Selmer Paris “Signature”: A Legacy Reimagined
The “Signature” alto embodies the evolution of the Super Action 80 Series II model, which has made a significant impact on the history of the saxophone since its release in 1986. While retaining the sound characteristics of the Series II, the Selmer Paris “Signature” offers improved accuracy, especially in the high register, and enhances the resonance of the low register.

Features:

• Ergonomics inspired by the Series II to meet the needs of all musicians, benefiting from the latest innovations developed for the Supreme.
• A new 3-point neck receiver system for better sound homogeneity.
• A nickel-silver tightening ring for greater density in the sensitive neck zone.
• An octave key with Teflon supports for more mechanical fluidity.
• Adorned with an original Art Deco-style engraving paying homage to the age-old techniques passed down from generation to generation within the Selmer Paris factory since 1919.

The “Signature” alto is both a traditional saxophone and a beacon of modernity. This saxophone excels in both classical and jazz settings, making it a top pick for those who demand the best in sound customization.

Experience Them Yourself: Schedule Your Appointment
We invite you to experience the distinct qualities of the Selmer Paris “Axos” and “Signature” models firsthand at Paige’s Music. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to assist you in exploring these magnificent saxophones and finding the perfect match for your musical journey. To ensure you get personalized attention and a dedicated session, we encourage you to schedule an appointment in advance.

Don’t miss the opportunity to elevate your music with Selmer’s latest offerings. Whether you’re performing in a concert hall or jazz club, these saxophones will help you deliver outstanding performances. Visit Paige’s Music and discover why Selmer Paris remains a top choice for musicians around the world!

If you’ve been playing the cello for a while, you might have encountered an unusual sound when playing an F# on the G or D strings, coupled with excessive vibration. This phenomenon is known as a wolf tone. It occurs when the note you’re playing is close to the natural resonance frequency of the cello, typically between F and G. The resulting sound is an artificial overtone that amplifies the frequency of the note, leading to a wolf tone. So, what can you do about it?

Identifying the Wolf Tone The first step in addressing a wolf tone is to understand its cause. A wolf tone arises when the resonance of the string clashes with the resonance of the cello body. While it’s challenging to eliminate a wolf tone completely, there are effective ways to manage it.

Consult a Luthier Taking your cello to a luthier should be your first course of action. They can check for set-up issues that might contribute to the wolf tone, such as a tight sound post, a high bridge, or high-tension strings. A professional assessment can pinpoint the exact cause and suggest appropriate adjustments.

Wolf Mitigating Options Several products on the market can help mitigate wolf tones. These include:

• Wolf Eliminators: These are weights attached to the string between the bridge and the tailpiece. They help reduce the intensity of the wolf tone.
• Wolf Modulators: This option involves a magnetic weight. The heavier side is placed behind the top, and the smaller side goes on the front, held in place by the magnet.

Playing Techniques For mild wolf tones, altering your playing technique can also help. You can try:

• Applying less bow weight.
• Applying more weight on the fingerboard.
• Squeezing the cello between your knees when playing the problematic note.

Remember, these techniques might affect the overall sound, so be prepared for some trial and error to find what works best for you.

Other Instruments While wolf tones are most commonly found in cellos, they can sometimes occur in basses and, rarely, in violins and violas. It’s important to be aware of this if you play or are considering playing these instruments.

Paige’s Music Can Help At Paige’s Music, our full-service repair shop is equipped to help you address wolf tones. Our trained specialist staff can guide you in installing wolf eliminators and modulators. If you rent or purchase an instrument from us and discover a wolf tone, we’ll fix it before you leave the store.

Managing wolf tones is crucial for maintaining the quality of your cello’s sound. Whether through professional adjustments or playing techniques, there are ways to reduce their impact. For expert assistance, visit Paige’s Music. We’re here to ensure your instrument sounds its best. Ready to address your cello’s wolf tone? Visit Paige’s Music today for professional help and advice. Let us help you make your cello or bass sing!