Some thoughts on learning the trombone in 1878

We here at the blog like to keep it old school.  Click HERE to view this article.  It's from the NY Times in 1878.  It starts about halfway down the page on the left and then continues into a second column.  Why?  Why not?   Below are two excerpts  that might raise your eyebrows...

"Of all of the various brass instruments which have been devised by musical or malevolent ingenuity, there is none which in it's capacity for inflicting both torture and delight is comparable to the trombone."

Agree or disagree?  Here is another...  

"Central Africa is clearly the place designed by nature for students of the trombone.  There alone they can practice in safety, and there alone will their brazen discords aid the march of civilization."

Bones!

Looking to add some low brass to your life? Tired of the treble clef are you? This is a good starting point for checking out trombonists. J.J. Johnson set the standard for bebop bone. This clip features him alongside Howard McGhee and Sonny Stitt playing the blues head "Now's the Time." This head is played at almost every jazz jam session, and is a good one to have down if you are looking to play out.