Sittin' In with the Big Band, Volume II: Trombone Book & CD

Stepping into a real big band section without leaving your practice room. The rhythm section drives forward with authentic swing feel, and the trombone chair becomes part of a functioning ensemble where your tone, time, and phrasing matter.

Intermediate trombonists who want to experience jazz ensemble playing but lack access to a large ensemble rehearsal. Players at this level can handle the harmonic density of big band writing and benefit from hearing professionals execute the style.

• Listen to the full band recording first without your part. Notice where the trombone section sits in the mix and how the lead player shapes the phrases.
• Match the dynamic contour of the recorded trombone section before worrying about perfect intonation. Style and musical intent come first.
• Mark breathing spots that align with the recorded players. Coordinating breath points with the ensemble sound creates blend immediately.
• Play along multiple times. Your first run-through is about tracking the arrangement; subsequent passes let you refine tone, vibrato, and response to the rhythm section.

Use these charts to build jazz literacy in small groups, in sectionals with trombones learning from each other, or as a complement to a jazz history unit where students hear the style from professionals. This works well in spring when students want ensemble experience beyond concert band.

• Matching tone and articulation to a professional big band ensemble
• Reading lead and harmonic voices in a jazz section arrangement
• Listening for blend and time while playing independently
• Jazz phrasing and dynamic shaping in context
• Recognizing and executing big band style conventions