On Wed, 18 Nov 1998, Ole J. Utnes wrote:

> James,
>
> if you open the spit valve on the main tuning and then
> play pedal C, it slots in very well.
> (at least on my horns, Bach & C.G Selmer, it does)
>
> Could you elaborate on that?
>
> Ole
 

I tried it this morning and you are right.  It is much easier to hit the pedal C with the spit valve open.  The open fundamental harmonic is very flat on the trumpet.  Thus if you try to hit it in tune fingered open you have to fight the resonance that is flat.  By opening the spit valve you destroy the fundamental and the only thing left are the upper harmonics which help support the tone.  Thus it is easier to hit the pedal C in tune with the lowest harmonic out of the way.

James Sowinski