Tuning Slide: Bb, Semi Square
Tuning Slide: Bb, Semi Square
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Made in the USA
The tuning slide is one of the most influential components affecting how a trumpet feels to play. While often overlooked, changing the tuning slide can noticeably alter the instrument’s response, resistance, and overall playing experience—without changing the character of the trumpet itself.
The Blackburn Bb Semi-Square Tuning Slide is designed for players seeking a balanced blend of openness and efficiency. Its semi-square crook introduces a slightly more focused airflow than our Round Tuning Slide, providing a comfortable amount of resistance that many players enjoy “leaning into.”
If your trumpet feels too open or lacks the support you’re looking for, the Semi-Square Tuning Slide brings the instrument a little closer to the player. The result is a more connected playing experience with improved efficiency, enhanced control, and a centered feel while maintaining a broad, resonant sound.
Each tuning slide is handcrafted in our Lexington, Kentucky workshop using custom tubing and crooks that are drawn and formed in-house. Every slide is assembled with a durable Amado® water key, a brass cross brace, then carefully polished and inspected before leaving our shop.
Designed to fit:
- Bach Stradivarius®
- Bach Stradivarius® LT
- Yamaha Xeno® Bb trumpets
Features
- Semi-square tuning slide geometry for a balanced blend of openness and efficiency
- .460” (ML) bore
- Handcrafted from brass
- Custom in-house drawn tubing and formed crook
- Amado® water key
- Brass cross brace
- Hand polished and individually inspected
- Made in Lexington, Kentucky, USA
Installation
Installation is as simple as replacing your existing tuning slide. Apply a small amount of quality tuning slide grease to the slide legs before inserting the new slide, and you’re ready to play.
Whether you’re looking to add a little more support, improve efficiency, or give an overly open trumpet a more connected and comfortable feel, the Pickett Bb Semi-Square Tuning Slide provides an elegant, reversible way to fine-tune your instrument’s playing characteristics.
Specifications
Specifications
Cleaning & Care
Cleaning & Care
To keep your Blackburn leadpipe or tuning slide in top working order:
- Wash with warm water and soap, both inside and out.
- Dry gently with paper towel
- Do not use abrasive materials like toothpaste
- Use an instrument cleaning snake to remove debris through out the leadpipe
Apply tuning slide grease to piccolo leadpipes before inserting back into your instrument.
Prop 65 Warning: Risk of reproductive harm from exposure to lead. See www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

Built by Hand. Built to Last.
Every Blackburn Trumpet is meticulously handcrafted in Lexington, Kentucky. From our in-house pistons, valve blocks, bells, and tubing to assembly and finishing techniques passed down directly from Cliff Blackburn himself, each instrument is built with uncompromising attention to detail. The result is a trumpet with a feel—and a sound—unlike anything else.