Beginning Band: How to Care for the Trombone

Evan Clark | MPR

Age Range: Late Elementary, Middle School

Learning Objective: Students will demonstrate proper care and technique when assembling their instrument and putting it away.

Total Video Time: 1:20

INTRODUCTION

Trombone player Felix Regalado will walk you through the basics of putting together your trombone and taking care of it.

Grab the bell section with your left hand.
Then pick up the slide section with your right hand.
Connect the two parts by fitting the slide section into the bell section and screwing it in.
Take out your mouthpiece and fit it into the slide section with a quarter turn.
Make sure your slide is moving smoothly. Apply a bit of slide lubricant and water spray to the main slide as needed. Do not use tuning slide grease here!
To grease the tuning slide, remove it, wipe it clean, and apply a small amount of slide grease to the ends of each side. Reinsert it and slide it back and forth.
After practicing, empty water through the spit valve and slide as needed. Remove the mouthpiece and wipe as needed.
Disassemble the trombone in reverse order, fitting each piece securely into the case.
Make sure to secure your case with its zipper or latches before you pick it up.

Print this and keep it in your case or band folder!