How to Double Tongue on Trumpet

Co-authored by Carter Miller

Last Updated: January 6, 2025

Double tonguing is a fairly advanced technique utilized by brass players as a replacement for 'single tonguing', which becomes fairly difficult as the tempo of an articulated phrase increases.

Steps

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You will need to know how to pronounce the word 'ticket'. Say the word and concentrate on what your tongue is doing while you speak.
- A few alternatives to "ticket": "Tukka", "Takka", "Tugga", "Dugga".
Notice how there is tension in your air stream when you reach each syllable. Now all you have to do is put less exaggeration into the syllables so the air stream stays smooth throughout your exhalation. Practice this until it's smooth and comfortable.

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Practice single tonguing, then using the 'rebound' attack only (ka's, ga's, etc.)
Take it slowly, and read the tips below for further help.

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Question

I don't understand how to do the "ka" syllable on my mouthpiece. Can someone explain how?

Community Answer

You know how you do the "tu" syllable usually? Well, "ka" uses your throat. You make the "ka" sound with your throat while buzzing with your lips. It will probably feel weird at first. You'll need to practice it before it becomes easy to use.

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Question

I've been having some trouble with the "kas." Specifically, though I get a clean tone from the trumpet, the "ka" sound made by the throat can be heard. Is this acceptable or normal?

Community Answer

It is normal, just keep practicing it and you will become better at it.

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Are there any ways to tell if someone is double tonguing or just single tonguing?

Community Answer

If someone is double tonguing correctly, there should be know way to tell a difference. If you listen to the Allegro in the William Tell Overture, the trumpets are double tonguing but it sounds like single tonguing.

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Tips

Remember to say da-ga, ta-ka, tu-ku, etc. when you are double tonguing.

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If your 'rebound' tongue attack (the ka if you use ta-ka; ga if you use da-ga, etc.) is weak, practice using just ka's. Play a scale using just ka's or ga's, with no ta's or da's. This will help you build up your rebound attack strength.

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Practice slowly at first!

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Warnings

Take it slowly at first. If you jump right to 200 beats per minute, you'll teach yourself improper and sloppy technique and it will be difficult to break your bad habit and learn the technique properly.

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