1811)-B-flat/E-flat (contradictory)Įncyclopaedia Britannica (1888)-E-flat, FĬonclusions: Obviously, one of the things that becomes most readily apparent upon examining these sources is the key of the alto trombone. 3) Finally, it goes without saying that not all sources contain accurate information, which is one reason that looking at broad overall patterns (rather than falling in love with one or two favorite sources) can be useful. All of the below references are listed in the Alto Trombone Bibliography, most of them in the “Primary Sources” section.įröhlich (c. While the fact that a particular source is derivative rather than strictly original may mitigate its historical worth to a certain extent, it can also illustrate influence. For example, much of the information in late 19th and early 20th century orchestration treatises derives from Berlioz’s treatise. For example, Hector Berlioz’s treatise carries significantly more weight than that of William James Henderson. Three things should be stipulated: 1) Not all sources are of equal importance. These sources offer much useful historical information about key, use of the instrument, clef, etc. Introduction: Below is a chronological listing of what many written sources have recorded about the alto trombone throughout history, beginning in the 17th century and continuing through the first quarter of the 20th century. ALTO TROMBONE in TREATISES, DICTIONARIES, and METHODS