Trombone

The trombone had a rich ancestry that developed from the early trumpets. The name actually is derived from "big trumpet." However, the instrument we know today as a trombone was developed in the middle of the sixteenth century (1550).

The trombone is the only member of the brass family that uses a slide to change notes. As the slide is extended to specified positions, the notes descend by half step (minor 2^nd). The only way the player knows where the positions are located is through experience. They are not marked or indicated in any way.

Trombones can be heard in symphony orchestras, concert bands, marching bands, brass bands, jazz bands, Dixieland bands, and brass ensembles. It adds a tenor voice to the ensemble and works well as a solo instrument or as part of a section.

Study the image provided and listen to the sound sample of the trombone to gain an understanding of this instrument.

Listen to a sample of the trombone: