When it comes to the protection of your trumpet, the stand is just as important as your case. Sure, the case keeps your horn in storage when you're not using it. But the stand is there to keep your horn protected while it's in action; and as you know, a multitude of activities are happening all around it during a performance. For this reason, your horn needs to be protected with a sturdy and dependable stand.
Professional trumpet players typically run through several stand brands and versions. There isn't one particular stand that works superbly for all situations, but there are certainly upsides and downsides to the numerous types.
The Standard Model
This three-legged trumpet stand keeps your horn about one foot off the ground. Hamilton and Belmonte are great examples of these standard model stands.
UPSIDES
- Perfect for players who are standing, such as a big band. This stand keeps your horn at an easily reachable level.
- For those who move around with their instrument, this stand helps keep the horn at a visible level.
DOWNSIDES
- Not overly reliable with just three legs.
- Quite bulky, making them difficult to carry around
The Floor-Level Model
This is a popular version amongst expert players for a number of reasons. Superb versions can be found from K&M and Pack-A-Stand.
UPSIDES
- Horn is kept at a perfect level for sitting, making it great for session work.
- Because the horn is kept at a low level, less damage will occur in the event of a fall.
- For more stable use, the majority of versions consist of five legs.
- Most versions are constructed to slide smoothly into a horn's bell, making it one less thing to carry around.
DOWNSIDES
- Not a good choice for situations that involve a lot of standing or switching between horns.
- Because the horn is so close to the ground, someone could accidentally walk on it if they're not paying close attention.
The Multi-Horn Model
Similar to cases, you can find stands that are specifically designed for multiple horns. One of the more popular choices are made by Hercules.
UPSIDES
- Having all your horns on one stand can be very convenient.
- Horns sit at a reasonable level for both standing and sitting performers.
DOWNSIDES
- You need to be careful when pulling horns off these stands. Too much force could easily make the stand topple while the other horns are placed upon it. To avoid this type of accident, players will often add extra weight to the stand.
- Harder to carry around than a single-horn stand.
Try to consider your most common playing environments. Are you normally sitting or standing? Are you playing onstage or in the studio? Do you need multiple horns often? Answering these questions will make your decision a lot easier. Of course, like many players, you may prefer to own numerous stand types to fit your various performing opportunities.
