Packing a trumpet to Brazil was a little tricky. There wasn’t any room to put it in checked luggage, and who wants to trust various airlines with checking something as delicate as a musical instrument anyway? But to bring it as a carry-on could mean sending my laptop into the checked luggage, which I’m also not keen on doing. In the end, I brought it in a small dufflebag cushioned with clothing. Not tremendously secure, but it traveled in my lap or under the seat where I could keep a close eye and avoid damage.
Now that I’m here, it hasn’t seen much use. One time I played during a rainstorm, and a few people heard it. However, one day, a small crowd of young students came running to my door asking, “Mr. James, will you please play your trumpet for us?” After a short demonstration and everyone getting a chance to make a sound, most had their curiosity satisfied. Three boys have asked for lessons. Fortunately, there were a few neglected horns in a closet. Two are playable after some cleaning and oiling, and there is hope for the third.
Initial reports suggest that while musical enthusiasm is appreciated, there is a need for moderation during the morning hours.