None of the decisions a new trombonist must make when learning to play the trombone is more important than selecting the proper instrument. Playing the trombone is a skill that takes time, practice, and good instruction to master, but it also requires a good instrument. A beginner trombone should be a relatively simple instrument with a few technical considerations, such as size, that balances quality and price. Before making a final purchase, the new trombonist should try out various models and types of trombones.
When compared to the instruments used professional musicians, most beginner trombones are inexpensive. A beginner trombone is relatively simple and of lower quality when compared to a professional trombone. This does not necessarily imply that a beginner trombone cannot produce a good sound.
Trombones are available in a variety of sizes and styles. The straight tenor trombone, the trigger-type, or F-rotor, tenor trombone, and the bass trombone are the three basic types of trombones. While F-rotor trombones have additional tubing that can extend the range of the instrument, the straight tenor is the most common beginner trombone due to its simplicity.
When it comes to choosing a beginner trombone, size is crucial. The bore size, or the inner diameter of the inner slide tubing, has a significant impact on the sound of the instrument and the player’s endurance. A bore size of 0.481 inches (1.22 cm) to 0.525 inches (1.33 cm) is recommended for younger players. In a beginner trombone, this bore size produces a focused, bright sound. The smaller bore also provides more resistance, making it easier to maintain a tone without as much air as a standard 0.547-inch (1.39-cm) bore would require.
Before purchasing an instrument, most beginners should seek advice from an experienced trombonist or a band director. The majority of qualified instructors will have enough experience to advise a novice on which models to consider and which to avoid. A good band director can often provide the guidance needed to select the best beginner trombone based on the student’s playing style and financial considerations.
It is recommended that a student try out a beginner trombone before purchasing one. If the student is unable to produce a good sound with the recommended trombone, all of the advice and financial considerations will be for naught. To determine whether the instrument is compatible with his playing style, the student should physically test it. It may be possible to rent a trombone for a while before purchasing one, especially if the instrument is being learned through a school music program. This can avoid a large and immediate out-of-pocket expense and allow a new trombonist to try out a few different styles before committing to one.