What effect will eating gum or candy before during the playing of trumpet have on your trumpet?

Consuming gum or candy before or during playing the trumpet can have several negative effects on the instrument and your performance.

1. Sticky Residues: Gum and candy can leave sticky residues inside the trumpet, particularly in the mouthpiece, valves, and tubing. These residues can obstruct airflow, hinder valve movement, and affect the overall sound quality.

2. Corrosion: The sugar content in gum and candy can contribute to corrosion of the metal parts of the trumpet. Over time, this can damage the instrument and compromise its longevity.

3. Valve Sticking: Sticky substances can cause valves to stick, impairing their proper functioning. When valves don't move freely, it becomes difficult to play certain notes or execute passages smoothly.

4. Inconsistent Sound: The presence of foreign materials in the trumpet can alter the instrument's sound and pitch. This can result in intonation problems and a less resonant tone.

5. Health Concerns: Eating gum or candy while playing the trumpet can lead to health issues, especially if particles enter your respiratory tract. Chewing gum or sucking on candy during playing can divert your focus from maintaining proper embouchure and breathing techniques, which can affect your performance.

Therefore, it's generally recommended to avoid eating gum or candy before or during playing the trumpet to maintain the instrument's condition and ensure optimal performance.