Cornets

The Cornet is a member of the Brass Instrument family and is comparable to the Trumpet, but is more compact, and is characterised by a more mellow tone. They are an ideal alternative to the trumpet for beginners because they require a very similar mouth position, but are lighter, smaller and have a centre of gravity better suited to sustained playing.

Like the trumpet, the Cornet is a Bb transposing instrument - when you play a C on the cornet, a Bb on a piano is produced. Cornets are used in concert bands and marching bands, brass quintets and modern jazz ensembles. They are particularly famous feature of many British Brass Bands and concert bands. In a symphony orchestra, it is often played by the lead trumpet player when required by a piece. Cornets have a range from an E below middle C, to a Bb four octaves above.