Code: 101893
The JP154 Piccolo Trumpet is a popular choice for experienced players needing a piccolo trumpet but struggling to justify the expense of professional models. Ideal for occasional use in orchestras or to take on new repertoire such as Oboe concertos.
The rotary valves featured on the JP154 help assist a smoother sound suitable for more lyrical works, due to the shorter valve stroke than piston models. The choice of 4 trumpet shank leadpipes allow the change of pitch between Bb and A to suit the requirements of the player. Free blowing and with good intonation, the JP154 represents excellent value for money and is a great choice for first time piccolo trumpet players.
Firstly, with a P5-4 in the stable did I really need a new piccolo trumpet? Well after borrowing a friend’s JP 154 and really enjoying playing it for a week I found that I liked not only the sound but also the rotary valves...something which was quite foreign to me. So I opted to buy my own.
The outfit comes with four leadpipes, an A and three Bb pipes and although they are unmarked it was simply a matter of trying each to find which one best suited my needs. I find the trumpet free blowing and although bright, as one would expect from a picc, the sound is slightly more mellow than the Schilke. There is a train of thought which suggests tuning can be a problem with cheaper trumpets and in particular the smaller trumpets. However, this was not the case...even the infamous bottom C# works without alternate fingering!
If I have one adverse comment, it is that the mouthpiece which comes with the trumpet does not do the outfit justice. I used a cornet/trumpet adaptor with my Taylor cornet mouthpiece which Andy Taylor made for my Schilke. Maybe that combination just works for me but nonetheless it works well!
So, a rotary valve piccolo trumpet which sells for around £375. With the right mouthpiece it blows freely and in tune and thus far has handled Albinoni, Bach and Handel without any problems. For anyone considering buying a piccolo trumpet for the first time, the JP154 should be well up on the list of ones to try!
The JP154 is supplied in a protective case with a shoulder strap, and comes with a 4 trumpet shank leadpipes, a 5C trumpet mouthpiece.
