Trombone
Brass family
Listen to Examples
Guidelines for Success
- Stature is adequate to handle the size of the instrument.
- Arms are long enough to reach slide positions.
- Lips are medium to thick. Thin lips tend to be better suited for the French Horn or Trumpet.
- Student is able to sing a common folk song.
- Sense of pitch is exceptional.
Trombone Supplies
Call to Order
A quality instrument is crucial for successful learning. Parents can call (800) 637-6872 to order supplies from District 47's preferred vendor, Quinlan and Fabish, Mon-Fri. 11am-7pm or Sat. 9am-3pm or order online with the buttons below...
Method Book
5th grade students will read music from their own method book entitled, "Habits of a Successful Beginner Band Musician."
Music Stand
Students will set up their own music stand at full band. We use the Hamilton KB400N music stand and the Hamilton KB12 carrying bag.
3-Ring Binder
Please help our class run smoothly and organize our songs, worksheets and other handouts in a 3-ring binder.
Slide-o-Mix
Trombone players use Slide-o-Mix on the inner slide (silver color). Shake well and use 3-4 drops on each side as needed. Watch video.
Mouthpiece Brush
Rinse in a sink when using brushes.
Snake Brush
Rinse in a sink when using brushes.
Tuning Slide Grease
Trombone players use Tuning Slide Grease on the main tuning slide (the gold top of the trombone).
Recommended Brands
Origin of Trombone
Trombones were known to exist in the 15th century. Unlike other instruments, the shape of today's trombone remains close to the original. In the 16th century, trombones were a common town and court band instrument.
Inventor of Trombone
There are several kinds of trombones, and the tenor trombone is the most common. Valve trombones were developed in the 1800s and the bass trombone was invented in 1839. An extension allows the bass trombone to play lower notes.
Trombone Family
As a member of the brass family, the trombone's slide gives the instrument unique playing features. An extremely important member of the concert band as well as a popular jazz instrument, trombones play solos, melodies, and harmonies.
Composers & Performers
G. Gabrieli, Beethoven, Mahler, and Stravinsky are important composers who have included trombones in their writing. Some famous trombone performers are Glenn Miller, Urbie Green, Bill Watrous, and Kai Winding.
Note Chart
