cornets

Cornets are brass instruments in the trumpet family distinguished by a compact form and a conical bore that broadens toward the bell. The standard modern cornet is pitched in B-flat and typically uses three piston valves; some models employ four valves or rotary valves. It shares the trumpet’s mouthpiece and fingering system, but its conical bore produces a warmer, mellower tone suited to lyrical lines and ensemble blending.

Construction and range: The instrument is shorter and lighter than the trumpet, with a shorter leadpipe and a relatively compact valve section. The bell is usually smaller than a trumpet’s, contributing to the distinct timbre. Cornets are commonly used in B-flat, though models in A, C, or E-flat exist, and a soprano cornet in B-flat is standard in many ensembles.

History and usage: The cornet developed in the 19th century from the trumpet family and the valved brass instruments of the time. It became a core instrument in European and North American brass bands and wind ensembles, and it played a prominent role in early jazz and popular music. In modern practice, the cornet is less common in symphony orchestras than the trumpet, but it remains standard in brass bands and many concert bands; players often specialize in the cornet or switch between cornet and trumpet.

Related instruments: The cornet is closely related to other conical-brass instruments such as the flugelhorn. The term “cornet” historically also referred to various soprano brass instruments. Notable players in early jazz began on cornet and later moved to trumpet.