Tuned In - Trombone: Trombone Method Book

This book cuts through the noise of expensive intonation software by delivering what students actually need: systematic key-based studies, multiple reference points for listening and matching, and a practical drone library that fits any rehearsal space. Robert Herrings and Brian Balmages built this from real band room experience, so every chorale and study serves a purpose beyond check-the-box exercises.

Focused and grounded. The studies build naturally from key to key, and the chorales sit comfortably in the voice so students can concentrate on blend and tuning rather than fighting the range. Working through these materials feels like honest practice, not gimmickry.

Band directors seeking a no-frills intonation resource that doesn't require an institutional budget or complex setup. Trombone sections at any level benefit from the systematic progression through keys and the freedom to access studies and drones both in rehearsal and at home.

• Start with the drones at the beginning of rehearsal as a five-minute warm-up; students internalize pitch centers faster when they're hearing the reference consistently.
• Assign one key per week across your section so trombonists develop ownership of their studies rather than rushing through all of them at once.
• Layer the block chord studies under the chorales so students hear how their individual pitch relates to harmonic context, not just isolation.
• Rotate which trombone player leads the drone exercises to build confidence in younger players who need to feel steady before the full section jumps in.

Integrate one study and one chorale into your warm-up rotation throughout the year, completing the full cycle by spring concert season. The drones also pair well with sectional rehearsals during contest preparation, giving you a diagnostic tool that doesn't require pulling additional accompanists or equipment.

• Harmonic intonation within major and minor key contexts
• Pitch matching against stable drone references
• Balancing individual tuning responsibility with ensemble blend
• Reading and performing block chord progressions
• Aural recognition of each key's tonal center