anybody know how to play taps on the trumpet?

Question

my trumpet's a b flat if that helps in any way

Answer 1

This site gives you the notes for playing "TAPS", along with the history and original lyrics. Hope that this helps.

Answer 2

Taps is very easy to play. Since it was originally intended for a bugle, none of the valves are used. On a b flat trumpet you'll start on G above middle C. (low C for trumpeters) If you know the rhythm, Taps is very easy. If not then you play two Gs then hold a C. Next G C E. Do this three times. Next, C E G (ovtave above starting note), E C G. G G C, G G C, G G C. I hope that works. If not, look it up on mysheetmusic.com. That usually works well and for free.

Answer 3

I played it several times for military funerals years ago when I was in high school. The local VFW or American Legion would call the school and tell them they needed someone to play taps for them, so they often sent me, since I was the best they had.(blush)

On a trumpet, it's all played on open notes, as you probably know, since a bugle, as it's intended for, has no fingerings and can only play that way. It could be played with any one single fingering, actually.

I hope that you know the tune, as writing it here without any kind of tablature (a proper format) is a bit tricky. Google it if you need to find it.

Answer 4

Taps is, as the others said, played on open valve or a bugle and it's the lips and the force of the breath that matter. What is crucial, however, is the sentiment that goes with it: taps means final retreat so it is rendered as mournfully as possible (meaning there is always a twinge of regret that goes in). Taps is played in flag retreat, burial and lights out in military barracks and camps.

Tears do flow when taps is played in military funerals... and has greater impact compared to a 21-gun salute.

Answer 5

I played trumpet for 7 years, we always played it open valves or if you want to be in tune with a bugle hold down first and third valve. Just change the tone with your lips.