Student trombones are low-cost, entry-level trombones designed for learning players who are not ready to invest in a professional instrument. Almost all student trombones are basic tenor trombones, which can be rented or purchased. Intermediate trombones provide an upgrade in sound quality at a lower cost when a student is ready to graduate to a higher level. Understanding the various student trombone options can assist an aspiring trombonist or a parent of a student musician in selecting the appropriate instrument for the situation.
The mouthpiece size can vary, even though few student trombones come in any size other than tenor. The mouthpiece size on most student tenor trombones is 12C. Although some beginner trombones have slightly larger mouthpieces, such as 51/2AL or 61/2>AL, this is the standard size for a beginner’s mouthpiece.
A used student trombone may be the best option for a family on a tight budget. Music stores and classified ads are good places to look for used student trombones. Purchasing used trombones necessitates caution and attention, as internal damage to a trombone can be difficult to detect.
Choosing the cheapest instrument can have an impact on a beginner’s ability to learn to play. Some student trombones are of higher quality than others, while others are of inferior quality. Obtaining a student trombone that is severely damaged or of poor quality can make the instrument more difficult to play, lowering the budding player’s enthusiasm for the process.
While the state of a trombone’s finish is unimportant, significant dents in the body or a bent slide can have an impact on the instrument’s sound. The inner slides of a trombone slide in good condition are parallel and aligned for smooth sliding against the outer slides, and the outer slides are free of even the smallest dents. Even on student trombones, even slightly bent slides pose a serious problem during play, as the scraping slides can permanently damage the instruments. Misaligned slides are difficult and expensive to correct, and improper realignment can cause the instrument to break.
When buying a student trombone, even if it is used, is too expensive, renting is a less expensive option for temporary situations. Long-term instrument rental is generally more expensive than purchasing an instrument, and for-rent instruments are frequently in poor condition due to frequent turnover. This can allow a student trombone player to explore his interest in the instrument without the risk and research that comes with purchasing an instrument.