Trumpets have existed since before 1500 BC. Before the development of slides or valves, players could change pitch only by adjusting their lip tension (called embouchure) and by using the instrument’s natural harmonic series.
The medieval straight trumpet, or buisine, sometimes used removable sections of tubing (“yards”) to change its length and overall pitch. Because only harmonic-series notes were available at any given length—and because of their strong projection—these instruments were used mainly for signaling and ceremonial fanfares.
This straight form developed in 11th-century Italy and remained in use until the early 15th century, when bends were added to the tubing to create an S-shape for easier handling.
