Trombone Accessories Explained in Plain English
There are thousands of accessories made for the trombone player.
Here's a list of the six we recommend, and why!
1. Mouthpiece Brush 
Regularly cleaning your mouthpiece is the best way to avoid unhealthy germs, build-up and odors. Use a mouthpiece brush, soap, and warm water to keep your mouthpiece clean and free blowing - never let a dirty mouthpiece impede your sound!
2. Slide Cream 
Trombone slides are machined to thousanths of an inch tolerance. To make sure everything is moving smoothly, and to keep an airtight seal, the right lubricant is a must. If the trombone isn't played for a while, the slide cream can dry up and the instrument's slides may stick or seal improperly. A small amount of slide cream can improve the speed and articulation of your play.
3. Polishing Cloth 
Most trombones are lacquered at the factory. Each time you play, however, dust and oils from your hands accumulate on the outside, and should be wiped off. This is mainly a cosmetic issue, and almost any non-abrasive cloth will help. There are specially formulated polishing cloths for silver plated or lacquer finishes. If you're spending all this time learning to play, at least let your horn look good as well!
4. Trombone Stand 
A trombone stand keeps your instrument securely in an upright position, and ready to be picked up (and played) at a moment's notice. If you're playing with a band in public or in school, the trombone stand is essential to safely hold your horn when you're not playing. One accidental drop of your trombone can cost 5 to 10 times the price of the best stand. When not in use, most trombone stands fit securely in the bell while the instrument is in the case!
5. Music Stand 
Sure, you can put music on the kitchen table and practice - but, you'll be hunched over, your neck will be constricted, and you'll have trouble blowing out a free and powerful sound. (Some of this can even lead to back and neck pain or injury!) A music stand is designed to adjust to the correct height and to hold the music securely at a comfortable angle. Using music stand is a great way to avoid bad habits, develop proper posture, and improve your playing. It's a 'must-have' at home!!
6. Tuner 
The trombone is tuned by moving the main tuning slide in and out. There's a lot to learn when beginning the trombone, and unfortunately, many students master the notes and scales without developing an ear for pitch. A chromatic tuner has a built-in microphone and a small display with a needle that swings to the right or left if you are playing too sharp or flat. Most tuners also display the note being played. If you're playing alone, you may not notice that you're a little out of tune...but once you join a band or orchestra, your peers will let you know right away! Practicing with a tuner will help keep you on the straight and narrow, and help you to "hear" slight differences in pitch.
