20 Famous Trombone Players You Should Know

20 Famous Trombone Players You Should Know

In the vast symphony of music history, a unique and emotionally stirring resonance emerges the trombone. This powerful instrument bridges brass and melody, and has been mastered by virtuosos who have elevated its tones to unparalleled heights.

From the captivating allure of jazz to the soaring crescendos that spark imagination, the trombone players we present are more than musicians; they are architects of sentiment.

Every played note is a stroke on the canvas of harmony, weaving stories of determination and victory. Whether on shadowy stages or grand amphitheatres, their performances have transcended sound, etching their names deep into the chronicles of a musical legend.

Join us on an exhilarating expedition as we unveil famous trombone players who have breathed life into this majestic instrument.

1. Glenn Miller

Ad on page 27 of May 16, 1942, Billboard magazine, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Alton Glenn Miller was an American bandleader, composer, arranger, trombonist, and recording artist who is considered to be one of the most important figures in the development of the big band genre.

His orchestra, Glenn Miller and His Orchestra, was one of the most popular and successful bands of the 20th century. Miller volunteered to join the U.S. Army Air Forces in 1942 to boost morale among troops during World War II.  

Miller was born in Clarinda, Iowa, in 1904. He began playing the trombone at a young age and eventually formed his band in 1934.

The band quickly became popular, and Miller soon became one of the most successful bandleaders in the country. His orchestra’s signature sound was characterized by its smooth, elegant arrangements and Miller’s distinctive trombone playing.

Miller’s band recorded many popular songs, including “In the Mood,” “Moonlight Serenade,” and “Chattanooga Choo Choo.” The band also toured extensively, and its concerts were always well-attended.

Tragically, Glenn Miller went missing in action (MIA) on December 15, 1944, during a flight over the English Channel.

2. Joseph Alessi

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Joseph Alessi is an American trombonist who has been the principal trombonist of the New York Philharmonic since 1985. He is considered one of the leading trombonists in the world and has won numerous awards, including the Avery Fisher Prize.

Alessi was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1959. He began playing the trombone at the age of 10 and studied with renowned trombonist Warren Vaché Sr. He attended the Juilliard School, where he was a student of John Swallow.

After graduating from Juilliard, Alessi joined the New York Philharmonic in 1986. He has held this position ever since and has been praised for his virtuosity and musicality. He has also performed as a soloist with many of the world’s leading orchestras.

In addition to his performing career, Alessi is also a dedicated educator. He has taught at Juilliard and other music schools and has written several books and articles on the trombone.

3. Jack Teagarden

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Weldon Leo “Jack” Teagarden was an American jazz trombonist and vocalist who was one of the leading figures in the field before the onset of the Bebop movement in the 1940s.

He was known for his unique style, which combined elements of blues, jazz, and country music. Teagarden was also a gifted singer, and his vocals were often compared to those of Louis Armstrong.

Teagarden’s career took off in the 1930s when he began leading his band. He also recorded extensively, and his albums are considered classics of jazz.

 Teagarden was a master of the trombone, and his playing was characterized by its warm, lyrical sound. He was also an innovative improviser, and his solos were often unpredictable and exciting.

Teagarden continued to perform and record until he died in 1964. He is considered one of the greatest jazz trombonists of all time, and his influence can be heard in the playing of many of today’s musicians.

4. Tommy Dorsey

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Thomas Francis Dorsey Jr., an American artist with a strong presence in the world of jazz, held roles as a trombonist, composer, conductor, and leader of a big band during the era known as the Big Band Era.

His reputation as the “Sentimental Gentleman of Swing” was derived from his smooth and expressive trombone style. His signature tune, “I’m Getting Sentimental Over You,” became widely recognized.

His exceptional technical prowess on the trombone earned him high regard from fellow musicians. He was the younger sibling of fellow bandleader Jimmy Dorsey.

Following his separation from his brother in the mid-1930s, Dorsey went on to establish a tremendously successful band that remained influential from the late 1930s to the 1950s.

 His legacy is particularly connected to timeless compositions like “Opus One,” “Song of India,” “Marie,” “On Treasure Island,” and his chart-topping hit, “I’ll Never Smile Again.”

5. Curtis Fuller

Photo by Tom Pich, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Curtis Fuller was an accomplished American jazz trombonist and composer. Born in 1932, he gained prominence in the 1950s, recognized for his innovative playing style and technical expertise on the trombone.

As a pivotal member of the hard bop movement, he collaborated with icons like John Coltrane and Art Blakey. Fuller’s rich sound and improvisational flair left an indelible mark on the genre.

He contributed to numerous acclaimed albums and led his bands. His legacy continues to influence generations of jazz musicians, solidifying his position as a respected figure in the history of jazz. Fuller passed away in 2021.

6. Gunhild Carling

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Gunhild Carling is a Swedish jazz musician and multi-instrumentalist, born in 1975. Renowned for her extraordinary versatility, she excels in trumpet, trombone, bagpipes, and more.

Carling’s energetic performances blend jazz, swing, and traditional music with an engaging stage presence. She’s recognized for her ability to play multiple instruments simultaneously.

Carling has collaborated with various renowned artists and performed globally, leaving audiences captivated by her talent and exuberance.

Her dedication to preserving traditional jazz and pushing musical boundaries showcases her as a dynamic force in contemporary jazz. Gunhild Carling’s vibrant contributions continue to impact the jazz landscape.

7. Fred Wesley

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Fred Wesley is an American trombonist, arranger, and composer who is best known for his work with James Brown and Parliament-Funkadelic. He was born in Columbus, Georgia in 1943 and began playing the trombone at a young age.

He eventually joined James Brown’s band in 1968, where he helped to define the sound of funk music with his energetic playing and improvisational skills.

After leaving Brown’s band in 1975, Wesley joined Parliament-Funkadelic, where he remained until 1985. In the years since he has continued to record and perform as a solo artist, and he has also written several books on music and music education. 

Wesley is considered one of the most influential trombonists in the history of funk music, and his playing is characterized by his energy, creativity, and soulfulness.

8. Wycliffe Gordon

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Wycliffe Gordon, a prominent American jazz trombonist, composer, and educator, has left an indelible mark on the music world. Born in 1967, his virtuosity on the trombone, along with his vocal talents, has garnered international acclaim.

Gordon’s musical journey encompasses a versatile range, from traditional jazz to modern innovations. He’s recognized for revitalizing the plunger mute technique and paying homage to historic jazz traditions.

An integral part of the Wynton Marsalis Septet, he also led his bands, showcasing his exceptional musicianship and captivating performances.

Beyond performing, Gordon is committed to education, conducting workshops, and sharing his insights as an advocate for jazz education. His distinctive sound, creativity, and dedication make Wycliffe Gordon a true luminary in the realm of jazz, contributing richly to its legacy.

9. Natalie Cressman

FifthLegend from Eagan, Minnesota, United States of America, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Natalie Cressman, an American artist known for her prowess in jazz as a trombonist and singer, embarked on her musical journey during her early teenage years, taking the stage with Afro-Cuban, Brazilian, and jazz ensembles.

She graduated from the Ruth Asawa School of the Arts in San Francisco and later moved to New York City to attend the Manhattan School of Music. There, under the tutelage of instructors like Luis Bonilla, Garry Dial, Laurie Frink, and Wycliffe Gordon, she honed her skills.

Joining a band led by Trey Anastasio, Cressman’s musical endeavours expanded to performances with Nicholas Payton’s Television Symphony Orchestra and Peter Apfelbaum’s New York Hieroglyphics Ensemble. 

Notably, she showcased her talents as a soloist in Wycliffe Gordon’s Jazz a la Carte at the Apollo Theater in 2012.

Cressman founded the ensemble Secret Garden and made appearances with bands such as Dumpstaphunk and Lettuce. Her artistry also extended to being an artist at large at the Bear Creek Music Festival.

10. J. J. Johnson

J.J. Johnson, an influential American jazz trombonist and composer, revolutionized the role of trombone in jazz. Renowned for his virtuosic technique and innovative improvisations, he emerged as a prominent figure during the bebop era.

His collaborations with icons like Charlie Parker and Miles Davis solidified his impact. Johnson’s bebop style elevated the trombone’s status as a solo instrument, shaping modern jazz.

He authored compositions like “Lament” and “Enigma,” contributing significantly to the jazz canon. Johnson’s legacy endures through his groundbreaking contributions to jazz’s evolution and his role in elevating the trombone’s prominence in the genre.

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11. Bill Watrous

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Bill Watrous, an accomplished American jazz trombonist, left an enduring mark on the music world. Celebrated for his virtuosic technique and remarkable range, he redefined trombone playing.

His career spanned various genres, from big bands to small ensembles, showcasing his versatility. Watrous collaborated with luminaries like Quincy Jones, and his solo work garnered praise for its inventive phrasing and rich tone.

His unique voice on the trombone and his ability to effortlessly navigate diverse musical styles earned him widespread recognition. 

He is perhaps best known for his rendition of Sammy Nestico’s arrangement of the Johnny Mandel ballad “A Time for Love“, which he recorded on a 1993 album of the same name.

A self-described “bop-oriented” player, he was well-known among trombonists as a master technician and for his mellifluous sound.

12. Melba Liston

Melba Doretta Liston, an American jazz artist, excelled as a trombonist, arranger, and composer. In the 1940s and 1960s, she achieved the distinction of being the inaugural female trombonist in big bands, except those exclusively comprised of women.

However, her focus shifted to arranging as her career developed. She notably collaborated with pianist Randy Weston. Notable partnerships included collaborations with esteemed figures such as Dizzy Gillespie, Billie Holiday, John Coltrane, and Count Basie.

As her trajectory progressed, Liston left an indelible mark on jazz through her multifaceted talents, influencing both performance and arrangement within the genre.

13. Frank Rosolino

Frank Rosolino was an American jazz trombonist who was known for his agile, flexible, and expressive playing. He bridged bebop and swing styles and was known for his extrovert sense of humour.

He was a member of the Tonight Show Band and recorded with many leading jazz musicians, including Stan Kenton, Shelly Manne, and Quincy Jones. He died in 1978 at the age of 52.

14. Helen Jones Woods

Helen Elizabeth Jones Woods, a notable American trombonist in the jazz and swing genres, gained fame for her contributions to the International Sweethearts of Rhythm ensemble. Her recognition led to her inclusion in the Omaha Black Music Hall of Fame in 2007.

Jazz and Trombone share a lot and that is why the instrument has been harnessed by the greatest musicians to come up with masterpieces. To find out who these great jazz singers are, check it out here.

15. Kai Winding

William P. Gottlieb, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Kai Winding, a Danish-born American trombonist and composer, left an indelible mark on jazz. Renowned for his impeccable technique and lyrical playing, he contributed significantly to the cool jazz movement.

Winding co-led the renowned “Jay and Kai” trombone duo with J.J. Johnson, showcasing their innovative harmonies and improvisations. He played a pivotal role in shaping modern jazz trombone playing, with his recordings and collaborations leaving a lasting influence.

Winding’s melodic sensibility and distinctive style continue to resonate as a hallmark of his significant contribution to the jazz landscape.

16. Urbie Green

Urbie Green, born in 1926, is an American jazz trombonist renowned for his exceptional skill and versatility. His career has spanned several decades, and he’s celebrated for his precise technique, rich tone, and melodic improvisations.

Green’s virtuosity has graced a wide array of genres, from big bands to small ensembles. Notably, he played with renowned bandleaders like Woody Herman, Gene Krupa, Jan Savitt, and Frankie Carle.

His distinctive style shines through in both his solo work and his contributions to countless recordings, firmly establishing him as a standout trombonist. Urbie Green’s legacy extends beyond his performances; he’s also an educator, passing on his knowledge and insights to future generations.

His enduring influence on the trombone and jazz as a whole underscores his status as a true luminary in the music world.

17. Don Lusher

Don Lusher OBE, an English jazz and big band trombonist, is most renowned for his affiliation with the Ted Heath Big Band.

Across a career spanning over 60 years, he performed the trombone in various jazz ensembles and orchestras, twice holding the role of President of the British Trombone Society.

18. Steve Turre

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Stephen Johnson Turre is a pioneering American jazz trombonist known for his innovation in using seashells as musical instruments. He’s also a composer, arranger, and educator at the academic level.

Over 59 years, Turre has remained active in various genres including jazz, rock, and Latin jazz, performing in live venues, studios, television, and film. He boasts a discography of over 20 albums as a leader and has contributed to numerous others.

With prolific studio work, Turre ranks among the most productive contemporary jazz trombonists. Notably, he has been a key Saturday Night Live Band member since 1985.

19. Arthur Pryor

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Arthur Willard Pryor, recognized for his trombone virtuosity, leadership of a band, and solo performances with the Sousa Band, was also a prolific composer of band music.

His most famous creation is “The Whistler and His Dog.” In his later years, Pryor transitioned into politics within the Democratic Party, representing New Jersey. During the 1930s, he held a position on the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders.

20. Miff Mole

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Irving Milfred Mole, using the professional name Miff Mole, was an accomplished American jazz trombonist and leader of a band.

Regarded as a preeminent jazz trombonist, he is recognized for pioneering “the initial unique and impactful solo jazz trombone technique.”

His notable recordings encompass tracks like “Slippin’ Around,” “Red Hot Mama” featuring Sophie Tucker on vocals in 1924, “Miff’s Blues,” and “There’ll Come a Time (Wait and See),” featured on the soundtrack of the 2008 film The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.

Miff Mole’s legacy encompasses his groundbreaking contributions to jazz trombone and his role as a bandleader.

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