How to Buy Your First Trombone

You've decided on a trombone but what is the difference between a slide trombone and a valve trombone ? Well there are the obvious physical differences, but there are also differences in the sound and style of play. The Tenor Bb slide trombone is the most commonly seen trombone. The slide trombone works by moving the slide closer and further away from you, which extends the length of the tubing. As with all brass instruments, the longer the tubing the deeper the pitch. The slide aspect of the trombone allows it to create a unique sliding sound if desired. If you wish to expand your trombones range even more an F attachment can be included to change the pitch of your trombone. No other brass instrument can quite capture the trombones unique sound.

But what about the valve trombone ? Well the valve trombone uses a set of valves to change the pitch much like a trumpet dose, if fact the valve trombone is often used as a "double" or second similar instrument for trumpet players. The valve trombone dose have a slightly different sound from a slide trombone. This style is more commonly used in European symphonic pieces and many jazz ensembles. The valve trombone has a higher attach which gives it a brighter sound to the trombone more like a trumpet. The valve trombone however is rarely used in an American symphonic or orchestral setting.

So what should you look for in your trombone? Well for a first trombone the deciding factor should be the bore size. A first trombone should be from .500-.525. This is because a larger bore, while it provides a more full rich tone, can be difficult for new players lungs to fill.

So whatever trombone you decide on we, at 2 Kool 4 Skool , hope this article will help you in you search. Also be sure and check out our awesome selection of trombones.

Originally published on our previous site and restored in 2026. Prices and models mentioned may have changed; the advice has not.