Chapter 1
The physics of the slide
Chapter 2
From sackbut to symphony
Chapter 3
The trombone's voice in the orchestra
Chapter 4
Beyond the classical stage
YOUR GOAL
Master of The brass beast with a slide
Ch 1 · The physics of the slide
maestro Labels highlight the trombone's long cylindrical tubes and the small brass water key.
maestro Bold, flat pop art colors saturate repeated screen prints of a brass trombone.
Fun Fact
Trombone spit: It is actually mostly condensed water vapor from the player's breath, not actual saliva.
Glossary
slide (noun)
A part of a machine or device that moves smoothly along a track. Extending this outer tube lengthens the trombone's air column, which physically lowers the fundamental pitch.
A part of a machine or device that moves smoothly along a track. Extending this outer tube lengthens the trombone's air column, which physically lowers the fundamental pitch.
Quiz
What physical action allows a trombonist to change notes within a single slide position?
Quiz
Approximately how long is a standard tenor trombone's tubing when the slide is fully extended?
Quiz
Which German instrument maker invented the F attachment trigger for the trombone in 1839?