Valve technique for the independent double-valve bass trombone: a pedagogical review and method

In the past half century, the modern bass trombone has come into its own as both an orchestral and especially as a solo instrument. The level of performance and subsequent attention by composers and arrangers has attracted more players to the instrument. The manifestation of this change in popularity has occurred in two ways. First, the development of bass trombonists is occurring at earlier ages. Second, more trombonists are developing their proficiency at “doubling,” in which the performer adept at tenor trombone performance becomes competent on the bass trombone.

The author’s evaluation of the available methods for bass trombone reveals, however, that aspiring bass trombonists do not have a comprehensive and systematic guide for the valve/slide possibilities of the modern instrument. Therefore, providing a methodology that addresses these shortcomings will provide benefits for future trombone performance.

Through the systematic study of fundamental exercises and orchestral excerpts, the user of this guide will gain a better understanding of the functionality of their bass trombone as currently designed. The performer will then be able to apply the knowledge gained to any music pattern, simple or extensive, with a plan of valve and slide usage that is efficient and provides the player with the means to create a more efficient, effective, and therefore musical performance.