Trumpet mutes

A trumpet mute changes the sound of a trumpet by altering its volume, tone, and timbre. Mutes are often used in brass instruments like the trumpet and trombone. 

How it works

• A mute is inserted into the bell of the trumpet 

• The mute can also be held in front of the instrument or clipped onto the bell 

• The mute can be made of metal, rubber, or wood 

What it sounds like

• The sound produced by a muted trumpet is different depending on the type of mute used 

• For example, a Harmon mute produces a soft, buzzy sound, while a cut mute produces a darker tone 

When it's used 

• Mutes are used in classical music, jazz, and other genres

• In classical music, passages that are intended to be played with a mute are marked with "con sordino", which is Italian for "with mute"

• In jazz, composers may indicate the use of a mute by the name of the mute, or by the word "open" to indicate when the mute should be removed

Types of mutes:

Straight mutes, Practice Mutes, Cup mutes, Plunger mutes, Solotone mutes, Pixie mutes, and Hat mutes.