The modern trombone evolved from a 15th century Englinsh instrument called a sackbut which looks very similar to a straight tenor trombone. Trigger trombones (those with an F attachment) are a mechanical modification of the straight slide trombone. Advanced trombonists love the quicker access to notes as they are accessible in different positions with the trigger.

For example, F which is played in the 6th position can be played in the first position with a trigger. You can access notes higher up on the slide that are played further down the slide on a straight trombone. Intermediate trombonists who are advancing from a straight slide trombone to the F attachment find a trigger trombone much easier to play. In other words, you have a very flexible instrument with a wide range. When you attach extra tubing, typically pitched in the key of F and accessed through a trigger operated valve, you then extend the chromatic range of the trombone down to low C, or by a perfect 5th. Straight tenor trombones are pitched in the key of Bb which gives it the chromatic range of E below the bass clef to Bb above the middle C. There are two advantages to using a tenor trombone with an f-trigger attachment: one is musical and the other is operational Which trombone is right for you? Check out our Trigger Trombone Reviews for all the pros and cons on the foremost brands like Bach, Conn, King, Holton, Blessing, and Yamaha.

Ready for your first trigger trombone or need an upgrade? Our Trigger Trombone Guide will take you through everything you need to know about the tenor trombone with f-attachment, from open or traditional wrap, to string or mechanical linkage.

Trombone f attachment position chart