Using a Bugle

[Redcoat Surgeon]

I've got a question and I was wondering if someone out there would be able to help. I use to play trombone in high school and was wondering if anything that I learned from that would transfer over to playing bugle? My main concern is that I graduated so long ago (22 yrs), I am wondering if I would have to re-learn everything.

Thanks,
John Ferrannini
Asst Surgeon, 1st Lt.
67th NY

[hconverse]

Hi John,

Of course having played any type of brass instrument is definitely a plus when playing a bugle. You should be able to make a reasonably good sound from the start but trying to hit the high notes could be a challenge.

The biggest difference is going to be the size of the mouthpiece and getting your lip into shape. It's a much smaller mouthpiece and hitting the high notes takes a much tighter embouchure than when you played the trombone. You'll need alot more lip power to play many of the bugle calls.

Good luck!!!

[maillemaker]

I've got my old Boy Scout bugle and from time to time I find it in the closet and try belting out Reveille or other calls. I am RUSTY.

Steve

[RJSamp]

Unfortunately, most of us are Steve......it's been a long time since playing the solo on the 50 yard line of the high school football field at Homecoming for too many of us....

[Cadet]

You could look at the good news--it's got a lot fewer notes it can play.