There are certainly times of the year that will keep you busier than others. Let’s say most of the year you play the B-flat trumpet, and you brush up on your C and Piccolo trumpets around the holidays. Well, what happens when you get a call for C or Picc and it’s the middle of the summer? Uh Oh!
The majority of my practice time is dedicated to the B-flat and the flugelhorn, which makes the most sense for someone like me, but I do spend a few minutes each day working on the smaller trumpets. First of all, I’m interested in those horns - they are trumpets after all, and there is an incredible amount of literature to work on. Secondly, you never know when you’re going to get “the call.” Maybe someone needs a sub for a summer symphony gig, or you get an unexpected call to play a wedding on short notice? The point is, if you’re not spending time with those horns, you aren’t going to be able to take the call and you’ve just passed up some money and the chance to play music with some people you may have not met yet. Maybe that could have lead to more opportunities?
I know this sounds like a lot of “what - if’s,” but the fact of the matter is, I’m right. I know people who have benefited from this kind of preparedness, myself included, and I know some who have missed out on great, door-opening opportunities because of not being ready to go on the small horns.
Remember, you never know when the phone is going to ring. Practice like you’re expecting it to, be a great person that people love to work with, and respect the music. Soon enough you’ll be working more than anyone you know.