Trombone is such a versatile instrument
rarely a first instrument for many so it can often be forgotten about. But not by us! Where else would you get that rich tone?... or guzz, depending on what the repertoire calls for.
In recognition of the physical maturity needed to play the bass trombone, our syllabus begins at Grade 5 (or from Level 2). Most learners will play tenor trombone to lay the foundations and get their musical journey started. Our Trombone Syllabus supports those goals and, at Level 2, it branches off into specialties - the Tenor and Bass Trombone Syllabuses. Each syllabus is built on those starting blocks and technical development introduced throughout Tenor Trombone Syllabus in Level 1.
Who was the brains behind the Trombone Syllabus?
The amazing Brendan Collins led a team of specialists featuring some of Australia's finest lower brass performers and pedagogues. The Syllabus itself was reviewed along with the other lower brass instruments and one of the key outcomes was giving the Trombone and Bass Trombone greater focus as standalone syllabuses.
What sort of pieces are in the Syllabus?
When we update syllabuses, we give the repertoire a complete refresh but don't worry - your favourites are still there. A broad range of genres, styles, and periods have been included. We aim to include pieces by a diversity of composers where musical merit allowed, but lower brass remains a group of instruments that has traditionally been dominated by male composers. Regardless, there are lots of gems and the pieces align to the technical work. At Level 2, there's a greater diversity of repertoire to support the interests of learners at higher levels. With that, the piano accompaniments are of greater complexity so it's important to note that performances of these works require quality accompanists. The Trombone Syllabus Lists offer a curated set of pieces for the developing musician. Some works appear in both syllabuses but the majority are particularly composed for the Trombone. Each Grade has a set of studies and works from various eras from pre twentieth century to today. And finally, there's a set of orchestral excerpts that can be chosen to support you in your career development and help to prepare for life as an orchestral musician.
What's involved in a Trombone exam?
There are two types of exams you can do: Comprehensive and Repertoire. Just as it suggests, a Comprehensive exam involves demonstrating your learnings across a comprehensive set of components. You'll prepare your program of music and technical work (eg scales), answer questions on general knowledge, and be tested on aural and sight-reading.
Alternatively, you could do a Repertoire exam, where you perform only your pieces, demonstrating your technique and knowledge through the repertoire. Flexibility exists to choose a range of genres and styles through the set lists, and option of Own Choice works broadens your choices even further (Repertoire exams only). As long as the piece is the same standard as your Grade, you can choose pretty much anything. Repertoire Exams are a great way to get a practice run at your TCE or UTAS exams. In addition to the AMEB qualification, you'll receive constructive feedback and guidance to help in guiding your final preparations for your future performance goals.
Repertoire exams are available across all syllabuses except Band.
How does the Trombone Syllabus differ to the Bass Trombone Syllabus?
Building the basics through Level 1, it's expected that bass trombone learners will be starting on a tenor trombone. The same skills, technical work, and musical development are essential for both instruments - it's just that there's no bass specialty in the early Grades. At Level 2, they deviate but run in parallel, with each Syllabus focussing on the skills and techniques that are more relevant to the instrument and how the player works. The technical work takes into account the range limitations of the instrument while covering the same keys. The technical exercises are completely different and bespoke to both the tenor and bass trombone (respectively). They're designed to support the development of the orchestral performer and provide focus on areas particular to each, such as clef reading. The Lists include repertoire unique to each instrument, as well as some crossover pieces. Orchestral Excerpts are introduced as a List D option and, again, there are excerpts selected specially for each type of Trombone. The Sight-reading book also splits from Grade 5 upwards to include a bespoke set of resources for bass trombone.
What is the Certificate of Performance exam?
It's an exam that's designed to help to bridge the gap between Grade 8 and AMusA, and provide a capstone to Level 2. The CoP is a recital-style exam, like the Diplomas, but is a natural continuation of skills from Grade 8. We have a Spotlight article dedicated to Certificate of Performance exams here, if you're keen to find out more.
Are there any other syllabus options available?
Yes! Our Band Syllabus is something you could take a look at. The requirements are really similar and it supports a variety of instruments found in a brass band. This Syllabus works in keys, rather than instruments and is available for Bb, Eb, and C horns.
What other resources are available?
Each syllabus outlines the objectives and requirements for each exam so that's always the best place to start. We also have books available for cheaper access to sets of List pieces (the Grade books), recorded accompaniment (up to Grade 3 in most syllabuses), Technical Work books, and even practice books to help you with your aural and sight-reading skills. Head to your favourite local music retailer or the AMEB Online Shop for these and more.
Can I get TCE Points for a Trombone exam?
Yes you can! And that goes for any AMEB syllabus. In fact, all practical exams are eligible for TCE bonus points from Grade 4 onwards, as well as Theory Grade 2+.
I have more questions.
That's great! We'd love to help with those. Please feel free to browse the other great sources of information on our website or get in touch to find out more.
