Basic Trombone Courses

The teaching of the trombone at the Scuola di Musica di Fiesole adopts a playful and innovative educational approach that begins with introducing the instrument’s structure, sound production methods, and mouthpiece use. Gradually, students are introduced to the essential aspects of technique: breathing techniques (correct usage and increase in lung capacity), sound quality (starting with intonation, followed by flexibility and dynamics), and a correct, relaxed posture.

Trombone students gradually tackle various aspects of instrumental technique and participate in group activities, such as the initial theory course Cantare il solfeggio, which uses games to introduce concepts like sound, silence, duration, and pitch, fostering students’ ability to conceptualize and produce sound, develop motor coordination, and interact with their peers.

The early experiences in the S-bandiamo! ensemble teach children to play together right from the start of the trombone course.

The trombone lessons include targeted exercises to develop respiratory capacity, sound control, natural movement and correct posture, all of which require regular individual practice.

With the agility, precision, and power they progressively acquire on the trombone students can perform increasingly complex pieces and participate in the Fiesole Harmonie ensemble, chamber music groups, and the Orchestra dei Ragazzi.

The pre-academic trombone course provides students with the skills needed to tackle increasingly complex music; throughout the course, trombone teachers offer constant support, encouraging both individual and group effort, and provide advice on managing emotions.

The educational path in the pre-academic trombone courses progresses through three levels – beginner, intermediate, and advanced – each accompanied by complementary courses (chamber music activities, group lessons in writing and music theory, etc.). At the end of each level, passing certification exams allows students to move to the next module.

Upon completing this study path, trombone students will have the training necessary to tackle progressively challenging trombone repertoires, potentially advancing to an academic trombone program.

Starting at age 11, students can also learn to play the trombone at the Scuola di Musica di Fiesole in a non-curricular course, which does not require exams.

Performing in public is a key experience for every musician: the Scuola di Musica di Fiesole organizes various performance opportunities for its trombone students right from the beginning of the course. Concerts and recitals engage them individually, in small groups, and in orchestras, providing an essential educational experience for children and adolescents alike.

To help children approach the trombone more naturally, two preparatory paths for the trombone course are recommended, depending on the child’s age: the youngest, from ages 0 to 6, can attend Musicami, a music course based on Edwin Gordon’s Music Learning Theory. For children ages 3 to 9, rhythmic-choral activities are recommended.