Trombone versus Baritone
When did the trombone sound morph into the sound of a baritone?
Ever heard any of these phrases?
“Play with a big sound.”
"Play with a dark sound.”
“Don’t let it get edgy.”
The true sound of a trombone (tenor and bass) is disappearing in favor of one that more closely resembles a baritone or a euphonium (slide tuba for bass trombone?).
Why?
Because of the above quoted admonitions of some teachers and choice of equipment that has arguably grown too large, in a farcical attempt to get a “big” sound.
I read something a long time ago that really stuck with me. I can’t even recall where I read it but have found it to be quite accurate. Play a crescendo from ppp to fff. If there is a huge change in timbre (woofy in soft to brittle in loud), the mouthpiece is too large.
We seem to have lost the ability to change color and play nimbly in favor of a “one color fits all” approach. The heavy equipment has not helped this loss. I guess it is easier to not have to deal with a color palette when playing. It is a pity to lose such an interesting aspect to playing.
Heading off in another direction….
We also are encouraged to play in a manner that values “valve cleanliness.” Yes, we as trombonists should be able to play cleanly but we also have the luxury to play lyrically…vocally even…whoa! Great singers do not “click” between notes, they apply an expressive portamento that only the trombone and stringed instruments can emulate. Don’t be afraid of a smear. Don’t be afraid of an “unclean” connection when playing solo repertoire or lyrical etudes.
Here is a link to an interview I did several years ago, which describes my approach to expressive articulation:
Excerpts are a different story. Play cleanly. Execute flawlessly with stylistic awareness with push button reliability.
