Authentic Sounds of the Big Band Era: 3rd Trombone Book

Warm, grounded, and swinging. The third trombone voice sits in the foundation of the section, anchoring the harmony while the leads soar above. You'll feel the classic big band groove from inside the band, supporting the power and drive of legendary arrangements.

Third trombone players in high school or college jazz ensembles ready to tackle authentic big band charts. This book works best for players with solid sight-reading skills and some experience in jazz-style articulation and swing feel.

• Balance your tone with the second trombone line; the third part often carries harmonic foundation, so clarity matters even when you're not on top.
• Listen closely to where your part intersects with the saxophones; big band voicings depend on that brass-reed blend being secure.
• Keep the slide relaxed during rapid position changes in pieces like "Sing, Sing, Sing"; tension will slow you down and cloud your tone.
• Commit fully to the swing articulation on the eighth notes; the rhythm section's feel depends on the brass section delivering consistent, bouncy attacks.

Build a full big band concert around this repertoire by pairing it with first and second trombone books from the same collection. These well-known titles also work as teaching pieces throughout the year, introducing students to authentic swing style before tackling more complex modern jazz.

• Reading swing articulation and jazz phrasing conventions
• Managing slide positions during fast harmonic changes
• Listening for harmonic placement within a full ensemble
• Sustaining tone and intonation while playing supporting lines
• Understanding the role of the low brass section in big band voicing