Developing Relationship Between Ambient Temperature and Main Tuning Slide Length of a B-Flat Trumpet

Abstract

Trumpet players rehearse and perform indoors and outdoors. However, large temperature differences in various settings significantly affect pitch. This project investigates how temperature affects the main tuning slide length of a standard B-flat trumpet to produce accurate harmonic pitches, based on the equal tempered chromatic scale. Six experimental trials were conducted, in which temperature sensors and measuring tapes were attached to respective locations on the trumpet. The project report provides a model with a table of values describing the ambient temperatures and corresponding tuning slide lengths for the trumpet player to reference. They can make accurate adjustments to play in tune and enhance intonation, when located in different environments with varying ambient temperatures.