＜Slurs with Trombone＞
Whether it's a melody or an accompanying harmony, playing with a slur is quite difficult for the trombone.
Even with a slur, the trombone often has to tongue (some people say it's better to tongue everything). Especially in the lower range, there is almost no possibility of alternative Position, so this is a big problem not just for elementary school students but for all trombone players.
The secret to playing with a beautiful slur is a quick slide movement and legato tonguing.
Ideally, the slide should move between positions in the same time as the pistons of other brass instruments move, but when moving to distant positions, this is not always possible. Nevertheless, it is necessary to at least explain this to the students so that they are aware of it. To achieve this, a smooth-moving slide is essential.
Even good players will not be able to play slurred phrases if the slide is in poor condition and does not move smoothly.
For students whose slide movement is slow or whose slide starts moving during the first note, try explaining it as shown below.
This will help them to be aware of blowing to the end of the long note and moving the slide just before the next note begins.
Legato tonguing is not well known. Instead of "ta-ta-ta" or "tu-tu-tu", tonguing is done with syllables such as "lu-lu-lu" or "du-du-du".
When playing a slurred phrase on the trombone, portamento may occur if nothing is done, so this legato tonguing will erase the portamento at the moment the slide moves.
First, practice legato tonguing by holding one note. While holding the note, move the tongue "lu-lu-lu." This will create a sound just like when you play the same key while pressing the right pedal (sustain pedal) on the piano.
This is also necessary for other instruments when you want to continue notes of the same pitch with a slight separation.
Of course, it is most important that students know the feeling of sounds being connected with a slur before practicing the above.
Students can also try playing the same phrase on a euphonium to get a feel for a beautiful slur. Although the trombone and euphonium have different bores and bell sizes, they have the same tube length (same range) and can be played with the same mouthpiece, so it's fine to switch between them occasionally.