Why would a trumpet get harder to blow?

Question

I know nothing about the instrument. My 5th grader just started playing one this year in her school music class and she says that she cleans it but that it has been getting harder to blow. Her words, mind you. I just wanted to know if there is some maintenance we have been neglecting. It is a fact that she hasn't been practicing and isn't enjoying it and won't be continuing after this year. It is also a fact that it is a rental and I want it returned in good shape! So I've let this go too long... but, that said, is there anything to what she says, or is it just that she isn't likely to find it any easier since she never practices?

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

I can't imagine why it would get harder to blow through?  I would check the mouthpiece first, make sure nothing is blocking that pipe.  If so, you can get a mouthpiece brush and some warm water and clean that.  If that is clean, start with the lead pipe, where the mouthpiece goes into.  Pull out the tuning slide and look down the pipe.  A cleaning snake and warm water will clean out any blockage in any pipe.  Also, make sure the valves are put in properly.  If one if the valves is not set in the valve casing right, the holes won't line up.  That could cause some blockage.  If all else fails, take the trumpet to a reputable music store and have a trained technician look at it. 
Good luck.

Why would a trumpet get harder to blow?

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