Trombone reviews, articles, and tips for beginners and beyond
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The Trombone evolved from a 15th-century instrument called the Sackbut, first appearing in its modern form in the 18th century. It was essentially a larger version of the Trumpet, with a slide for changing the pitch of the notes.
For many years it was used almost exclusively in religious situations, such as choral mass settings. However, when Beethoven elected to use Trombones in his fifth symphony in the early 19th century, the instrument rapidly became a part of the standard orchestral line-up.
In modern times the Trombone is equally at home in the jazz genre as it is playing classical music.
Trombones are normally made from metal, although there are some plastic models on the market too.
The main components are a detachable mouthpiece, a slide (for changing the pitch of the notes), and a flared bell at the end of the instrument.
The range of the instrument varies depending on the capabilities of the players, but it is at least three octaves.
How To Play
To produce a sound from a Trombone you need to make a buzzing sound with your lips into the mouthpiece.
Your left hand should hold the instrument, and the right hand holds the slide, moving backwards and forwards to alter the pitch of the notes being played.
A very popular technique on the Trombone is to move the slide between notes slowly, creating a sliding effect. This is called a glissando.
The oldest surviving Trombone was made in 1551.
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