Trombone

Like the French horn, trombone players should have good “musical ears”. The trombone is played like the other brass instruments (vibrating their lips into a cup-shaped mouthpiece), but uses a slide to change notes instead of valves. The slide is not marked or notched and players rely on their memory and hearing to tell if they are in the proper location. Students with good musical ears should consider Trombone.

Physical Characteristics

While some might think that trombone players must have long arms, the truth is there are numerous accommodations that make it possible for students of all shapes and sizes to play. A slight overbite is acceptable, while an extreme underbite would hinder success. Trombone players should have slightly fuller lips than average.

Other Considerations

While braces do affect trombonists and all brass players, since the trombone mouthpiece is larger in size, braces do not have as much of an effect on trombonisits as it would students who play the trumpet or french horn.  There have been many successful trombone players who transitioned between wearing braces and not wearing braces.