Why Some Electric Wind Instruments Lack Trumpet Fingering
The world of electronic wind instruments(EWIs)is expanding,offering musicians a wide array of options to explore new sounds and playing techniques.However,not all EWIs are created equal,and some do not offer trumpet fingering options.Here's a look at why this might be the case:
• Design Philosophy and Versatility:EWIs like the Akai Professional EWI series and the Roland Aerophone are designed with versatility in mind.They aim to cover a broad spectrum of sounds and playing styles,often emulating the fingering systems of multiple instruments.The Boehm fingering system,common in instruments like the saxophone,is often used as a base due to its familiarity to many wind players.This approach may not always include specific fingerings for every instrument,including the trumpet.
• Market Demand and Target Audience:The design of EWIs is influenced by market demand.If the majority of potential users are more familiar with the fingering systems of certain instruments,manufacturers may prioritize those.Trumpet players,while significant in number,may not constitute the largest user base for EWIs,leading to a focus on more widely used fingerings.
• Technological Complexity and Cost:Implementing fingering systems for every possible instrument,including the trumpet,adds complexity to the design and manufacturing process.This can increase the cost of the instrument,which may not be justifiable if the market for such specific functionality is limited.
• Ease of Use for Novice Users:Some EWIs are designed with the novice user in mind,aiming to simplify the learning curve.By using a more common fingering system,these instruments can be more accessible to a wider range of players,including those who are new to wind instruments or transitioning from other wind instruments.
• Focus on Core Functionality:While some EWIs,like the Roland Aerophone AE-20,boast the ability to emulate a wide range of instruments,including the trumpet,not all models may offer this level of detail.Some EWIs might focus on core functionality and the most popular wind instrument sounds,which could lead to the exclusion of specific fingerings like those for the trumpet.
• Adaptability and Customization:Some EWIs allow for customization of fingerings,which can cater to players of different instruments,including trumpet players.However,this feature may not be available in all models,or it may require a level of technical know-how that not all users possess.
In conclusion,the absence of trumpet fingering in some EWIs can be attributed to a variety of factors,including design philosophy,market demand,technological and cost constraints,and the aim to make the instruments accessible to a broader audience.As technology advances and the market evolves,we may see more EWIs that cater to the specific needs of trumpet players and other niche user groups.
