'What a wonderful world' - Trombone + Play-along

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to play "What a Wonderful World" on the trombone, along with suggestions for play-along resources. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this guide will help you understand the essential components of the piece and how to practice effectively.

Step 1: Download the Sheet Music

• Access the free sheet music for trombone using the following link: Trombone Sheet Music.
• If you play other instruments, you can find sheet music for:
  • Trumpet, Tenor Sax, Clarinet: Link
  • Alto Sax: Link
  • Flute: Link

Step 2: Familiarize Yourself with the Melody

• Listen to the original recording of "What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong to familiarize yourself with the melody and rhythm.
• Pay attention to the phrasing and expression used in the performance.

Step 3: Warm Up Your Trombone

• Before starting, perform a warm-up routine to get comfortable with your instrument. This can include:
  • Long tones to ensure consistent airflow.
  • Lip slurs to improve flexibility.
  • Scales to familiarize yourself with the key of the song.

Step 4: Break Down the Song

• Divide the song into manageable sections (e.g., verses and chorus).
• Practice each section slowly, focusing on the pitch and rhythm.

Step 5: Play Along with the Video

• Use the play-along video available at this link: Play-Along Video.
• Start playing along with the video after you feel confident with each section individually.

Step 6: Focus on Dynamics and Expression

• As you play, pay attention to the dynamics (loud and soft passages) and expressiveness.
• Try to capture the emotional essence of the song, similar to Louis Armstrong's rendition.

Step 7: Record Yourself

• Record your practice sessions to evaluate your performance.
• Listen back to identify areas for improvement, such as timing, intonation, or tone quality.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to mastering "What a Wonderful World" on the trombone. Remember to practice consistently and don’t hesitate to go back to sections that require more attention. Enjoy your music journey and consider exploring other arrangements for different instruments as well!