Trombone
About the Trombone
Types of Trombones
Standard Trombone - This is the main trombone that students begin on. Since trombones use slides, sometimes students' arms might be too short to reach all the positions, but usually they will grow into it. Sometimes students will begin playing trumpet and then transition to trombone if interested. When you are searching for instrument equipment, make sure you get it for the correct type of trombone.
Bass Trombone- This instrument is like the standard trombone, but it has more tubing and plays lower notes. Some bass trombones will have trigger keys that allow the instrument to use even more tubing.
Maintenance
Oil the slide carefully and consistently. If you don't oil your slide, it will start to scratch and feel slow.
Make sure you lock the slide in place when not using the slide so that it doesn't fall out.
Be very careful with the trombone slide so that it doesn't get bent or dented. If that happens, the trombone might not ever work properly again.
Make sure you do not let your cheeks fill up with air.
Equipment Needed
Buying (or Renting) a Trombone
Buying a Trombone
Buying your student an instrument is the best way to get them involved in the school band program. There are many options and instruments can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. Make sure you look at user reviews and find an instrument that will work well. Spending extra money on better quality now will prevent you from spending hundreds on repairs later. Below are a couple of good resources for finding instruments. Please contact the band director to make sure the instrument you purchase is the right model and a good fit.
Renting a Trombone
If you are unable to purchase an instrument, local music stores normally have some that you can rent. There's normally a monthly rental fee of $25 - $35 (or more). You will want to contact multiple music stores to see if they have any available. Please contact the band director if you have questions. Below are links to some local music stores.
Borrowing Instruments from School
Gridley Unified School District has a select number of instruments that can be loaned to students. Normally these instruments have been donated or well used by previous students. There is a limited number available. When students first start on their instrument, it is normal for them to borrow from the school; however, after 1 year the school hopes that students will be able to rent or buy their own instrument so that incoming students will be able to play on school instruments. The holiday season (November and December) is a great time to buy an instrument - especially if there are holiday sales. Please contact the band director if you have questions.