The Brass Family

 

 The brass section of the symphony orchestra holds the demanding role of fanfare and monumental boldness. Together, they create an unforgettable sound of triumph which lingers in the ears of the audience.

The sounds of these instruments are produced by blowing air between your lips, causing lip vibrations which are "shaped" by a metal mouthpiece before being amplified by the instrument – a sort of megaphone for the lips.

Notes are changed partly by "wiggling" the lips, making them feel tighter or looser, and partly by altering the amount of puff. Valves and slides are used to help to find different notes and play them in tune.