Struggling to practice trumpet without disturbing your neighbors? The answer lies in using the right mute. But not all mutes are created equal—some create uncomfortable backpressure, leading to bad habits and tension.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to play trumpet quietly in an apartment with the best mutes designed to reduce volume without increasing unwanted backpressure that can compromise your technique.
how to play trumpet quietly in an apartment
Best Practice Mutes with minimal back pressure
Not all practice mutes are great for airflow, and many can create backpressure that leads to tension in your playing. Here are some of the best practice mutes that reduce volume without creating back pressure.
1. SILENT Brass System For Trumpet
This is one of the most advanced options available. It allows you to play nearly silently, thanks to its built-in microphone and headphones. Best of all, it’s designed to reduce backpressure, offering a natural playing feel while keeping sound to a minimum.
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2. Honbay Aluminum Practice Mute
Lightweight and affordable, this mute is perfect for everyday practice. It reduces volume effectively without creating excessive backpressure, making it comfortable to use during extended sessions.
3. Pampet Practice Trumpet Mute
A budget-friendly option that still performs well, this mute offers solid sound reduction and helps maintain proper airflow, reducing the risk of bad habits forming due to backpressure.
Best Harmon Mutes for Jazz Practice
For jazz players, harmon mutes (also called bubble mutes) are a favorite for their unique tonal qualities. They allow you to practice at a lower volume while maintaining the rich, mellow sounds needed for jazz. Here are two excellent options that minimize backpressure while letting you experiment with sound:
JoRal Copper Bubble Harmon Mute
Known for its beautiful, warm tone, the JoRal Copper Bubble Harmon Mute is a top choice for jazz players who need to keep things quiet. Its design also limits backpressure, providing a smooth and natural playing experience while controlling volume.
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Libretto Trumpet Cup Mute
This versatile mute offers a range of tonal effects while reducing sound levels, perfect for practicing jazz in an apartment. It also helps minimize backpressure, so you can practice with more ease and comfort.
Tips for Playing Softer on the Trumpet
Regularly practice playing softly – The best way to improve at playing softly is to make it a regular part of your practice routine. By consistently focusing on softer dynamics, you’ll build the muscle memory and control needed to play quietly with ease.
Practice buzzing on the mouthpiece – Buzzing is a great way to work the same muscles used when playing the trumpet while being much quieter. It also helps improve your pitch accuracy. Many players use this time to practice difficult techniques like double or triple tonguing, as the tongue has to work harder without the full trumpet in use.
Take smaller breaths and relax – Taking smaller, controlled breaths while staying relaxed helps reduce volume. It’s also an excellent way to practice maintaining relaxation while playing. Alternate between smaller breaths for quiet dynamics and larger breaths for louder passages, all while staying relaxed, to improve overall control.
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