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T r o m b o n e

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T e n o r   &   A l t o

T e n o r   T r o m b o n e

There are several different types of trombones in use in today's ensembles. The trombone is an integral part of the modern orchestra, wind symphony, jazz ensemble, and brass band. The trombone is most distinguished from other instruments because of the glissando sound made by the slide. The three types of trombones most often used are the alto trombone, tenor trombone, and bass trombone (click here... to see the differences in size).   The Tenor Trombone is the most popular trombone used at all playing levels.  The mouthpiece of the trombone is larger than that of a trumpet and french horn, and gives the instrument a more mellow sound. Instead of valves, the trombone has a slide which changes the length of its approximately 9 feet of tubing to reach different pitches.  There are 7 slide positions that are used in order to play every note.

Hear Bron play:	Someone to Watch Over Me by Gershwin Tin Roof Blues
Print a slide position chart here...
Print Scales Major Natural Minor Harmonic Minor Melodic Minor
Click here for... manuscript paper online metronome music dictionary and more...

Mutes are used to change not only the instruments sound but to portray a specific style of music as well.  Mutes are placed in the bell and are made from many different kinds of materials ranging from cardboard to plastic and metal.  The material they are made of combined with the different shape of each mute, accounts for each one's unique sound. Click on a mute below to hear how it changes the sound of the trombone playing West Side Story by Leonard Bernstein.  But first, hear West Side Story without any mutes.

A l t o   T r o m b o n e

The alto trombone is pitched in E-flat or F, and is smaller than the tenor trombone. Because of its shorter length, the slide positions are different than on the tenor and bass trombones. The tone of the alto is more brilliant than that of the tenor or bass trombone. The alto trombone is primarily used in symphonic settings, although it has enjoyed a history as a solo instrument. Modern composers have rediscovered the instrument and the alto trombone has begun making more appearances in modern compositions. Modern professional tenor trombonists in the classical music realm are increasingly expected to also have fluency on alto trombone.

Hear Bron play Ode to Joy by Beethoven

Print a slide position chart here...