The trombone is a member of the brass family. Like other brass instruments, the trombone produces sound when the player vibrates his or her lips while blowing air into the mouthpiece. However, the trombone is unique as it is the only brass instrument that doesn’t need valves to change the pitch. Instead, trombonists move a slide to get the desired tones.
The trombone is capable of achieving a wide variety of sounds, from mellow to powerful. As a result, it can be found in numerous of ensembles, from wind bands and symphony orchestras to rock and jazz bands. Trombone choirs are also very popular, especially in college music departments.
Trombones must be rented or purchased from a music company.
Examples of Great Trombone Playing
David Finlayson
David Finlayson, the second trombonist in the New York Philharmonic, was the first trombonist to attach a GoPro camera to his slide. While this video is unique and a bit silly, it does show just how melodic the trombone can be.
James Nova
James Nova is the second trombonist in the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. In addition to being a fantastic trombonist, he’s also a great arranger. He adapted a number of movie music scores for trombone choir. He then recorded every part, from soprano down to contrabass.
Trombone Shorty
Trombone Shorty is a fantastic New Orleans musician. His music combines jazz, rock, funk, pop, and hip hop.
New York Philharmonic Orchestra
This clip demonstrates just how majestic the trombone can be. The brass chorale in Mahler’s Second Symphony starts off with beautiful soft playing across the orchestra before the trombones soar out of the texture.
