Student Instrumental Course: Trombone Student, Level III: Trombone Book

The Level III book picks up where intermediate players are ready for more sophisticated material without overwhelming them. Tanner's sequencing respects the physical and musical development of advancing trombonists, introducing new slide positions and rhythmic concepts at a pace that feels natural rather than rushed.

The repertoire in Level III reflects a shift toward actual musicianship rather than pure mechanics. You'll encounter pieces with character and dynamic shape, and exercises that build confidence in positions that previously felt uncertain or awkward.

This book serves trombonists who have completed Level II and are ready for more demanding slide work, extended ranges, and musically substantial etudes. It works equally well in private lessons and beginning band classes where students are advancing at a similar pace.

• Work through the written exercises before attempting full pieces; these studies target specific technical problems and prepare your embouchure for the demands ahead.
• Pay attention to dynamic markings and articulation patterns throughout the book; consistent execution of these details transforms basic exercises into musical statements.
• Coordinate with your instructor on the correlated supplementary materials; the book is designed to work alongside them, so filling gaps in your studies will accelerate progress.

Assign this book to students who are solid on fundamentals and ready to consolidate their technique before tackling the final levels. The 44-page format makes it reasonable to work through systematically over a full school year or extended lesson sequence.

• Extended slide positions and their smooth connection
• Articulation clarity across different dynamic levels
• Reading and executing syncopated rhythmic patterns
• Breath control for sustained phrases
• Intonation adjustment in the lower and middle registers