Vernon – sit for Trombone Quartet (PDF Download)

‘Trombone toot loud. Find favourite chair, really study favourite chair. Make trombone toot soft, and sit.’

This piece utilises an underused technique involving an Extending Tube Mute (or Harmon/Wa Wa mute). The player moves their hand in very subtle ways to isolate the different harmonics heard. This technique underpins the piece, creating an almost zen like atmosphere not dissimilar to that made by chamber organ, or Tanpura/Shruti box as used in the Indian raga tradition. The piece takes inspiration from the association and feeling of sitting in one’s favourite chair. An optional introduction can be played by the members by improvising rhythmic material with a coin on their favourite chair. (If chair is not present, pick favourite chair in the room at the time of performance).