Trombone Singing and Performance in Interaction. A study on the vocality of the trombone as a resource for the performer

Abstract

This thesis explores the connections between trombone playing and the human voice, in particular the act of singing, and how singing and the principles of singing can help in playing the trombone, with emphasis on musicality and expressivity. The research is backed by a brief analysis of the historical background of the instrument in relation to the singing voice, and of a selection of excerpts from the trombone repertoire to highlight the connections with the voice and singing. Various theoretical concepts are presented, including Arnold Jacobs’ theory of Song and Wind and concepts related to cognitive science, which form the basis for the practical analysis, the main part of this research. The practical analysis, conducted in two phases, proves that concepts from singing can be applied to trombone playing, and help achieve a better musical performance with ease.