| Trombones of today The trombone is unique in that it was the only brass instrument capable of playing chromatically, that is, by half-steps in a scale, until valves were invented in the 1830's. First of all, one needs to recognize the many varieties of the modern trombone. Only 21 inches in length, the Soprano Trombone--or slide trumpet--is not used regularly for orchestral or band music. Though having the appearance of a trombone, this instrument is usually played by a trumpet player as the mouthpiece and playing range is the same as a trumpet, pitched in Bb, an octave above the tenor trombone. There are trombones pitched even higher than the soprano--the sopranino, and the highest, the piccolo--but these are rarely seen and are only used in large trombone choirs. Below are descriptions of modern trombones. There will be slight variations among different manufacturers and some will not offer as many bore (tubing diameter) size options, but most will follow these basic designs: Alto Trombone Pitched a perfect fourth higher, in Eb, and smaller than the tenor trombone, it has a small bore and is used often in church brass music and in brass ensembles to provide the top voice. Tenor Trombone (small bore) This is the most common type of trombone used today. It is, as the remaining trombones are, pitched in Bb. The bore size is anywhere from .468" - .490". Small bore horns have the brightest sound and are often preferred in jazz groups to cut through when soloing. Medium bore Tenor Trombone The bore size is typically .500" - .509". As bore size increases, the timbre of the horn becomes "rounder or darker", less brilliant. This is a sound sought after in orchestral work. Medium-large bore Tenor Trombone (with "traditional wrap" F attachment) Bore size typically .525" The F attachment adds a wrap of tubing activated by a trigger and rotor valve which lowers the fundamental pitch from Bb to F. This allows the player to reach lower notes than would otherwise be possible. Horns of this size and larger are available in "traditional" or "open" wraps or without the F attachment. Large Bore Tenor (with "open wrap" F attachment) Bore size typically .547" The "open wrap" eliminates the tight turns of the traditional wrap, improving airflow through the F tubing, and is preferred by many professionals. Bass Trombone The largest bore measuring at typically .562" and also the largest bell (10-10.5") Although there are single-rotor bass trombones, many now include a second valve with can work independently of the first--or may be "dependent" and used in combination with the first. The extra valve allows more pitch changing and flexibility to the professional player. Valve Trombone This model is typical of most valve trombones you will find today. They usually have a small to medium bore. The valve fingering is the same as a trumpet. Many are sold with a conventional slide section as well for the player who wants both options. Not used in orchestras or most bands, this style is popular in some jazz ensembles and for trumpet and euphonium players who want to "double" on trombone. |
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