The Trombone

Here’s a riddle . . . what does a trombone have to do with a sword? Well, some sources say that the trombone got it’s name from the French word, “sacquer,” which means “to draw out (a sword or something like it).” So, a trombone may have gotten it’s name due to the fact that the instrument lengthens and is drawn out, much like a sword being drawn out of a scabbard!

Created in the mid 15th century, the trombone (developed from the slide trumpet) was used in a variety of places and situations, including churches, bands, and courts. Beginning in the 18th century, trombones were primarily used in churches due to it’s range, which is similar to that of the human voice. Trombones can create beautiful harmonies. Because of this, Beethoven was the first in his era to use the trombone in secular music, bucking a longstanding tradition of using the trombone - known as a “divine instrument” - only in religious music. Take a moment to listen to Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67 and see if you can pick out the beautiful tones of the trombone!