The trumpet is an ideal beginner instrument and can be begun whenever the front four permanent teeth are through, usually around the age of 7-8, although in some cases it can be started earlier. The trumpet is versatile: it is played in jazz, rock, brass and symphonic bands, and also in classical orchestras. Its small size makes it very portable and plenty are available for hire. It is an advantage to have learned to read music for a year before studying any of the brass instruments.