how does it compare in difficulty to other instruments (like sax, trombone, etc.)? thanks in advance.

well, i play trombone and trumpet...(5th in allstates in trombone, 8th in trumpet)

and its easier to go from trombone to trumpet, then vice versa. also, if your switching from a wind instrument, its going to be difficult. but i find trumpet easy. but im a low brass man. TROMBONE ALL THE WAY!!!