Trombone

What it means

The trombone is a brass instrument whose tube length is changed not through valves but through an extendable slide. Seven slide positions supply seven harmonic series, from which the complete chromatic scale results. The bore is predominantly cylindrical, the sound correspondingly clear and forceful. Most common is the tenor trombone in B♭, often with an F attachment that extends the range downward; alongside it stand the bass trombone and, more rarely, alto and contrabass trombone. It is notated at sounding pitch in the bass and tenor clefs.

Musical use

The trombone belongs among the oldest brass instruments with a complete chromatic scale; its construction has been essentially unchanged since the Renaissance. For a long time it was associated with church and solemn music and was at first used sparingly in the orchestra, before becoming a fixed component since the nineteenth century. In the trombone choir, in wind-band music, and in jazz it has traditions of its own. A special feature is the glissando: because the slide moves steplessly, the trombone can, as the only brass instrument, execute true gliding transitions, though only within one harmonic series.

Performance practice

The slide positions are not a fixed grid but are adjusted by ear; use this flexibility for pure intonation instead of experiencing it as uncertainty. Move the slide fast and straight, without tilting the wrist, and keep it well maintained, so that it runs easily. With slurs, take care that no audible glissando arises between the notes — this requires either a tonguing aid or a change of harmonic series. Plan breathing places early, because long lines need much air. Empty condensation regularly and check that the slide is protected when set down, since it dents easily.

Bear in mind that the slide places intonation entirely in the player's hands: this is an advantage in ensemble playing but demands constant listening, because there is no fixed basic position. In a chord, orient yourself by the root and adjust, instead of holding a practised position. For slurs across harmonic series it is worthwhile to work on avoiding the glissando with a light tonguing aid. Check the slide regularly for smooth running and dents. In the trombone choir, coordination of articulation and vibrato matters more than volume.