Trombone lesson books are an excellent resource for improving one’s skills on the unique instrument that requires a combination of technical skill and musicality to play – the trombone. Dedicated practice and discipline are necessary to master any instrument, and the trombone is no exception. Incorporating trombone lesson books into your practice routine is one of the most effective ways to enhance your abilities.
In this blog post, we will explore the top trombone lesson books for beginners and intermediate players. These books have been selected based on their effectiveness, popularity, and reviews from trombone players around the world.
The top trombone lesson books for beginners and intermediate players
The Art of Trombone Playing
The Art of Trombone Playing by Edward Kleinhammer
Edward Kleinhammer’s “The Art of Trombone Playing” is a highly regarded trombone lesson book that has been recommended by professional trombone players for many years. Kleinhammer, who played for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra for over 45 years, shares his vast experience and knowledge in this comprehensive book.
One of the key topics covered in “The Art of Trombone Playing” is breathing. Kleinhammer provides detailed instructions on how to breathe correctly, including diaphragmatic breathing, which is essential for producing a rich and full tone on the trombone. He also explains how to control the breath, which is crucial for playing long phrases and sustaining notes.
Another important topic covered in the book is embouchure or the way in which the player positions the lips and mouthpiece on the mouth. Kleinhammer provides clear instructions on how to create a proper embouchure, including tips on how to adjust the lips, tongue, and jaw for optimal tone production.
Tone production is also a major focus of the book. Kleinhammer explains how to create a beautiful sound on the trombone, including how to use vibrato and how to control dynamics. He also covers how to play in different registers, from the low notes to the high notes, and how to transition between them smoothly.
Phrasing is another important topic covered in the book. Kleinhammer provides guidance on how to shape musical phrases, including how to use articulation and dynamics to create expression and emotion in your playing. He also covers how to interpret different styles of music, from classical to jazz, and how to apply these techniques to your playing.
Overall, “The Art of Trombone Playing” is a must-read for any trombone player, whether you are a beginner or an experienced player. The book provides a comprehensive guide to playing the trombone, covering everything from the basics to advanced techniques. Kleinhammer’s vast experience and knowledge make this book an essential resource for anyone who wants to improve their skills on the trombone.
Arban’s Complete Conservatory Method for Trombone
Arban’s Complete Conservatory Method for Trombone by Joseph Jean Baptiste Laurent Arban
Joseph Jean Baptiste Laurent Arban’s “Complete Conservatory Method for Trombone” is a timeless masterpiece that has remained an indispensable resource for trombone players for over a century. First published in 1864, it is still widely used by professional and amateur players alike. This book is not just a method book, but also a historical document, reflecting the development of trombone playing during the 19th century.
One of the most important features of Arban’s method is the comprehensive set of scales, arpeggios, and technical exercises for breath control that it offers. These exercises are designed to help players develop their range, tone, and flexibility. The book includes a variety of tonguing and articulation exercises, slurs, and legato playing, as well as exercises for double and triple tonguing, which are essential for playing fast passages with precision and clarity.
In addition to the technical exercises, Arban’s method also includes a large number of studies and solos, which are essential for developing musicality and style. These studies are designed to challenge players with a wide range of musical styles, from classical to jazz, and to help them develop their skills in playing with expression, dynamics, and phrasing.
One of the most significant contributions of Arban’s method to the development of trombone playing is the inclusion of a large number of duets. These duets provide an excellent opportunity for students to practice playing in an ensemble, as well as to develop their sight-reading skills. The duets are graded in difficulty, starting with easy exercises for beginners and progressing to more complex pieces for advanced players.
Another notable feature of Arban’s method is the inclusion of historical notes and commentary, which provide insight into the development of trombone playing during the 19th century. This feature is particularly interesting for those who are interested in the history of music, as it provides a glimpse into the musical trends and styles of the time.
Overall, Joseph Jean Baptiste Laurent Arban’s “Complete Conservatory Method for Trombone” is an essential resource for trombone players of all levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, this book offers a comprehensive set of technical exercises, studies, and solos that are perfect for developing your skills and enhancing your musicality. It is a classic method book that has stood the test of time and remains an indispensable resource for trombone players today.
Rubank Elementary Method for Trombone or Baritone
Rubank Elementary Method for Trombone or Baritone
The Rubank Elementary Method for Trombone or Baritone is a popular and widely-used method book that provides beginners with a solid foundation in trombone playing. This method book is particularly useful for those who are just starting their journey on the trombone as it covers the fundamentals of playing the instrument.
One of the main advantages of using the Rubank Elementary Method for Trombone or Baritone is its clear and concise instruction. The book begins by introducing the student to the basic mechanics of the trombone, including how to properly hold the instrument, the correct posture, and how to position the mouthpiece. It then moves on to explain the basics of breath control and tone production. The book also covers essential techniques such as articulation, slurs, and dynamics.
The Rubank Elementary Method for Trombone or Baritone is structured progressively, gradually introducing new concepts and building upon previous ones. The book is divided into sections, each of which focuses on a particular aspect of trombone playing. The exercises and studies in each section are carefully designed to help the student develop their skills and reinforce the concepts that they have learned.
One of the most significant features of the Rubank Elementary Method for Trombone or Baritone is the large number of exercises and studies included in the book. These exercises are designed to help the student develop their technique, control, and musicality. They cover a wide range of styles, from classical to folk music, and are designed to be challenging yet accessible for beginners.
In addition to the exercises, the Rubank Elementary Method for Trombone or Baritone includes a selection of short solos that are perfect for developing the student’s musicality. These solos are designed to be performed with accompaniment and help the student develop their ability to play in an ensemble.
Overall, the Rubank Elementary Method for Trombone or Baritone is an excellent resource for beginners who are just starting their journey on the trombone. It provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of trombone playing and includes a range of exercises and studies that are designed to help the student develop their skills. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, the Rubank Elementary Method for Trombone or Baritone is a great addition to any trombone player’s practice routine.
Trombone Shorty
Trombone Shorty by Troy Andrews
Trombone Shorty by Troy Andrews is an excellent trombone lesson book for young trombone players, as it offers a unique blend of autobiographical storytelling and instructional content. The book chronicles the life of Andrews, a Grammy-nominated trombonist from New Orleans who has become a prominent figure in the jazz and funk music scenes.
Andrews started playing the trombone at an incredibly young age, and the book offers insights into his journey as a musician. From busking on the streets of New Orleans to touring the world with some of the biggest names in music, Andrews’ story is both inspiring and educational.
One of the most valuable aspects of the book is the range of exercises and techniques that are included to help young players develop their skills. Andrews’ approach emphasizes the importance of practice, ear training, and improvisation, all of which are essential for any aspiring musician.
The book also provides valuable tips on everything from tone production to breathing exercises, helping young players build a solid foundation for their playing. The clear, easy-to-follow instructions make it an ideal resource for both beginners and more advanced players looking to improve their technique.
Overall, “Trombone Shorty” is a must-read for any young trombone player looking to develop their skills and gain inspiration from one of the most talented musicians of our time. Andrews’ passion and expertise shine through on every page, making this book a valuable addition to any aspiring musician’s library.
The Embouchure Builder
The Embouchure Builder by Lowell Little
Lowell Little’s “The Embouchure Builder” lesson book is a highly recommended resource for brass players who are serious about developing their embouchure. The embouchure is a critical aspect of playing any brass instrument, and a strong and flexible embouchure is essential for producing a clear and resonant tone, playing in tune, and expanding your range.
This comprehensive lesson book includes a wide range of exercises that are carefully designed to target specific areas of the embouchure, allowing players to isolate and strengthen the muscles needed for each aspect of playing. With regular practice, players can develop a strong and flexible embouchure, leading to improved playing ability and musical expression.
One of the key features of this lesson book is the variety of exercises that are included. These exercises are carefully chosen to provide a comprehensive workout for the embouchure, covering a range of difficulty levels and addressing specific areas of technique. The exercises include lip slurs, flexibility exercises, range development, endurance exercises, and intonation exercises. Each exercise is accompanied by detailed instructions on how to perform it correctly, as well as helpful tips for improving your technique.
Another valuable aspect of this lesson book is the warm-up routine that is included. The warm-up routine is designed to prepare the embouchure for playing, helping to prevent injury and promote good playing habits. This routine can be used before practicing or performing, ensuring that your embouchure is ready to produce its best sound.
In summary, Lowell Little’s “The Embouchure Builder” lesson book is an invaluable resource for brass players who want to develop their embouchure. With its comprehensive range of exercises and detailed instructions, this book provides a thorough and effective workout for the embouchure, helping players to achieve a strong and flexible technique, improved tone, and expanded range. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, this lesson book is an essential addition to your practice routine.
Advanced Lip Flexibilities for Trombone
Advanced Lip Flexibilities for Trombone by Charles Colin
Charles Colin’s “Advanced Lip Flexibilities for Trombone” is an excellent trombone lesson book that is specifically designed for advanced players who want to take their playing to the next level. This book is an essential resource for trombonists who want to develop their embouchure and improve their tone, range, and endurance.
The book includes a range of challenging exercises that are specifically designed to improve lip strength and flexibility. These exercises are carefully selected to target specific areas of the embouchure, and with regular practice, they can help players to achieve a stronger and more flexible technique. The exercises also help to improve tone quality and intonation.
One of the standout features of this trombone lesson book is the focus on developing range and endurance. The exercises included in the book are designed to help players extend their range and improve their endurance, allowing them to play more demanding repertoire with greater ease and control.
The book also includes detailed instructions on how to perform each exercise correctly, with tips on breathing, tonguing, and articulation. This attention to detail ensures that players are practicing the exercises correctly, and helps to prevent injury and other common embouchure problems.
In summary, Charles Colin’s “Advanced Lip Flexibilities for Trombone” is a must-have trombone lesson book for advanced players. With its range of challenging exercises and detailed instructions, this book is an excellent resource for developing a stronger and more flexible embouchure, improving tone quality, and expanding range and endurance. Whether you are an aspiring professional or an experienced performer, this book is an essential addition to your practice routine.
Technical Studies for Trombone
Technical Studies for Trombone
Technical Studies for Trombone by Robert Mueller is a comprehensive trombone lesson book that is designed to help intermediate to advanced players improve their playing skills. The book includes a wide range of exercises that cover different aspects of playing, such as scales, arpeggios, and intervals.
One of the standout features of this trombone lesson book is the emphasis on developing proper playing habits. The exercises are carefully designed to help players develop correct posture, breathing, and embouchure, ensuring that they are building a solid foundation for their playing. This attention to detail is particularly important for younger students, who may be developing bad habits without realizing it.
Another great feature of Technical Studies for Trombone is the inclusion of duets and trios, which allow players to practice playing in a group setting. This is a great way for students to develop their ensemble playing skills and learn how to play in tune with others.
The book also includes detailed instructions on how to practice effectively, with tips on how to set goals, maintain motivation, and track progress. This guidance is particularly useful for students who are working on their own, as it helps them to stay focused and motivated during their practice sessions.
Overall, Technical Studies for Trombone by Robert Mueller is an excellent resource for any trombone player who wants to improve their playing skills. With its comprehensive range of exercises, emphasis on proper technique, and helpful guidance on how to practice effectively, this trombone lesson book is an essential addition to any student’s practice routine.
Choosing the right trombone lesson book is crucial for any trombone player looking to improve their playing skills. The right book can provide a comprehensive range of exercises, detailed instructions, and helpful tips for practicing effectively, helping players to build a solid foundation for their playing and take their skills to the next level.
We have discussed some of the best trombone lesson books on the market, each with its own unique strengths and features. From Lowell Little’s The Embouchure Builder to Charles Colin’s Advanced Lip Flexibilities for Trombone, these books have proven to be invaluable resources for trombone players of all levels.
Ultimately, the best trombone lesson book for you will depend on your skill level, goals, and personal preferences. However, by choosing one of the books discussed in this article, you can be sure that you are investing in a high-quality resource that will help you to improve your playing skills and become the best trombone player you can be. So, pick up a book, practice diligently, and enjoy the journey of mastering this beautiful and unique instrument.
