Much loved trumpet piece (3)

I believe the answer is:

pet

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'much loved' is the definition.
'pet' can be an answer for 'loved' (similar in meaning). I'm not certain of the 'much' bit.

'trumpet piece' is the wordplay.
'PET' is hidden in amongst the letters.
However, I'm not sure how this is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pet that I've seen before include "Favourite, may be teacher's" , "Little darling" , "Cherished favourite" , "A dear one exhibits sulkiness" , "Animal as a companion" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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