Better still, get a pocket trumpet, most of which are, I believe, technically cornets. I play an Indian one bought of ebay for less that the Harmon mute I use with it. I also use an Indian made Echo Cornet, bought of ebay five years ago very cheaply. This has a fourth valve so you might alternate between the open bell and the closed one whilst playing. Wonderful!

Echo Cornet on Ebay (but not as cheap as I got mine for...)

These a good little horns for the price, although they play slightly sharp of concert so aren't much good for playing with people who can't retune. That said, I use my pocket trumpet with my concert pitch Jew's Harps (multitracking of course!) and it sounds just fine. Have a listen to the track Domus Terra Winter Mix 2007 at http:www.myspace.com/sedayne.

There are a lot of nice inexpensive pocket trumpets around just now, in various colours. A good place to start on this most Folk Friendly of all brass instruments.

Do you use a Harmon / Wow mute at all? I find these the best for playing quietly, yet expressively - and dropping them just gives them character!