Learning to read and play music has so many physical and physiological benefits. It is great for your brain, helps reduce stress and so much more. Please feel free to read this blog on all the many Benefits of Learning a Musical Instrument.
However, let’s talk about the Trombone…
So, why is it so popular?
The Trombone is simple in its design; 9 feet of brass tubing with a slide section to alter the tubing length, and so lower and raise the pitch. No valves to change note, no keys to distract you, and a sound so deep and prominent that Trombonists can stir audiences and petrify conductors!!
Good for your fitness
One of the benefits of learning the Trombone (and many other woodwind & brass instruments) is the fact it can improve your fitness and health. Stop your gym membership now… go and buy a Trombone!
Playing the Trombone requires your full lung capacity and is one of the most important skills when playing a brass instrument. You need to be able to control your breathing, which requires a strong core. The constant breathing exercise is also like a workout for your lungs and diaphragm. To help with your breathing, it also helps to have good posture. This in turn helps to strengthen your core muscles. It’s not as easy as you think.
Improves your coordination
I have often been asked, “how do you know what position to put the slide”?
Unlike other brass and woodwind instruments, which have specific valves or keys to press either singularly or in combination, the Trombone has a long, free-flowing slide with 7 positions.
The correct position is simply down to muscle memory and practise. Trust me, after a few months it becomes second nature, that when you see a specific note, you automatically put the slide in that position. Your ‘eye to mouth to ear to arm’ coordination will be trained to make it a natural movement.
The greatest asset a musician must have, is an ‘ear’! You have to learn when you are in tune and when not… unless you play Bagpipes… then just do your own thing regardless!
It’s a social instrument
Being in a band is more than just music. It has a massive social side to it, and can be great fun and a stress relief from everyday life. You’ll be going to rehearsals, gigs, social events, and might even get to travel! Being in a band will also help your teamworking skills, which is very important. You need to be able to listen to other people, especially when they may be at the bar and asking if you want a drink!
Great to Learn
A dedicated Brass or Trombone teacher is invaluable when first learning. Your teacher is much better than reading tutorials, as they can both see and hear exactly what you need to do to improve your tone and technique.
If you are a younger player, you might find that starting on a lighter, cheaper, colourful, and virtually indestructible pBone will be an ideal option. They sound absolutely great!
The Versatility
The Trombone can be found in more bands and musical combinations than possibly any other instrument, such as orchestras, wind bands, brass bands, jazz bands, big bands, funk bands, pop bands etc. meaning you’ll most likely have the chance to join a band! Do you like blending into the background? Ohhh dear… Trombonists are quite the opposite! We love to be the centre of attention! Loud & Proud!
It won’t break the bank
Although Trombones can be expensive, especially when you start advancing onto professional models, when learning to play the clarinet, it won’t break the bank. Our bestselling Trombone, the Montreux Bb Trombone is just over £200! It is perfect for beginners, and comes with everything you need to get playing straight away!