Trivia
Famous pieces from trombone concertos

Although trombone concertos composed in the classical period are sometimes played even today, there are only a few standard pieces. It wasn't until the 20th century that composers began to pursue the potential of the trombone as a solo instrument.

N. Rimsky-Korsakov: Concerto for Trombone and Military Band

Rimsky-Korsakov was once a sailor in the Russian Navy, and he composed this piece while serving as inspector of the naval band. At the time he was enthusiastically researching how to use and orchestrate instruments, and this concerto reflects his passion. Wind instrument music pieces in which the oboe and clarinet are performed solo were also created during this period. What most stands out about this concerto is the beautiful melody played by the trombone, in which the influence of Russian folk music can definitely be heard. Without question, the piece expresses Rimsky-Korsakov's individuality.

E. Bloch: Symphony for Trombone and Orchestra

Many concerto pieces composed for the trombone in the 20th century are still around today. Known for his "Schelomo: Rhapsodie Hebraique for Violoncello and Orchestra," Ernest Bloch was a Swiss-born American composer. From a Jewish background, much of his work concerned issues surrounding the Jewish people. This piece was creating to mourn the Jewish people who were victims of Nazi Germany during World War II. Bloch chose the trombone as the solo instrument for this piece because the instrument was originally often used in churches and he likely took it as a symbol of God.