The trombone is a brass wind instrument that seems to have originated in Europe during the 15th century as an expansion upon the trumpet. The trombone, with its slide, is physically larger than the trumpet and offers more versatility. Even the name “trombone” reflects these origins, as it means “large trumpet” in Italian. (In English, the instrument was originally called the “sackbut.”)

The baroque era trombone was more delicate than the modern instrument, and it provided a softer sound. It initially held a significant position in the musical ensemble. This role seems to have decreased during the 17th century. Although the trombone was given an important role in some late baroque works – some by Johann Sebastian Bach. and George Frideric Handel, for example – it generally lapsed through the 18th century.

The instrument regained popularity after the implementation of valves in the 19th century.