Arthur Pryor was a famed trombonist whose brass solos have long inspired players across genres. This guide highlights the best books and collections that feature Pryor-inspired works and related classic trombone solos. Each pick combines approachable arrangements with strong practice tracks or audio options to help players study phrasing, articulation, and endurance. Whether you are preparing recital material or building a core repertoire, the following selections offer reliable, well-constructed solos and instructional content.
Summary of chosen products
| Product | Brand | Format | Pages/Tracks | Instrumentation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solos for the Trombone Player | G. Schirmer, Inc. | Book/Online Audio | 56 pages | Trombone |
| Rubank Book of Trombone/Baritone Solos | Rubank Publications | Book | 16 pages | Trombone |
| Trombone Gems Book and CD Pack | Rubank Publications | Book/CD Pack | 48 pages | Beginner-Intermediate |
| Great Movie Instrumental Solos: Trombone | Alfred Music | Book & CD | Format: Book & CD | Trombone |
| The Lord of the Rings Instrumental Solos: Trombone | Alfred Music | Book & CD/Online Audio | Format: Book & CD | Trombone |
Solos for the Trombone Player
This collection by G. Schirmer offers a curated set of trombone solos designed for intermediate players. The book includes 56 pages of music with accompanying online audio, covering a range of styles that are suitable for developing tone, musicality, and technique. The Solos for the Trombone Player title is organized to support practice routines and recital preparation, providing practical material for progressing players seeking Pryor-inspired phrasing and stylistic clarity.
Rubank Book of Trombone/Baritone Solos
Rubank Publications presents an easy-to-intermediate collection featuring trombone solos arranged for practice and performance. The book emphasizes a straightforward approach to melody, breath control, and articulation, with 16 pages of material suitable for developing the classic Pryor-style lyricism and bravura. The included pieces are crafted to support players transitioning from beginner to more confident intermediate performance, offering a solid bridge into Pryor-inspired repertoire.
Trombone Gems Book and CD Pack
The Rubank Gems collection provides a versatile mix of classic solos with play-along tracks designed for practice, recital preparation, and performance development. With 48 pages spanning levels 1-3, players can build technical facility, phrasing, and musical interpretive skills. This pack is well-suited for students who want to explore Pryor-esque repertoire while benefiting from paced progression and supportive audio accompaniment.
Great Movie Instrumental Solos: Trombone
This collection features popular film themes arranged for trombone with a combined book-and-CD format. It provides a mix of cinematic melodies and accessible arrangements, aligning well with Pryor-era expressive style and dynamic contrasts. The audio companions enable students to study timing and interpretation against professional performances, helping players capture the dramatic punch typical of classic trombone solos.
The Lord of the Rings Instrumental Solos: Trombone
Alfred Music presents this collection from the Pop Instrumental Solo Series, featuring trombone arrangements inspired by The Lord of the Rings score. The book and online audio format support practicing phrasing, vibrato control, and dynamic shaping through epic themes that align with Pryor-inspired virtuosity. These selections appeal to players seeking cinematic repertoire with a robust, expressive trombone voice.
Jazz & Blues Playalong Solos for Trombone
Hal Leonard’s Jazz & Blues Playalong Solos for Trombone provides a 32-page collection that blends swing-era phrasing with contemporary blues inflections. The material supports improvisational approach while offering solid melodic solos that can echo Pryor’s bold, showy style within a more modern jazz context. The accompanying audio aids in learning groove, articulation, and improvisational cues essential for authentic Pryor-inspired performance.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
When selecting trombone solo collections inspired by Pryor’s era and related classics, consider these factors:
- Skill level: Choose materials that match your current proficiency, whether beginner, intermediate, or advanced, to ensure consistent progress without frustration.
- Format and audio support: Books with online audio or CD tracks help with tempo, phrasing, and rhythm. Decide if you prefer print-only or audio-assisted practice.
- Repertoire breadth: A well-rounded selection should mix classical trombone solos, film themes, and jazz/blues pieces to expose players to varied articulation and stylistic demands.
- Educational value: Look for pieces that include performance notes, phrasing suggestions, and technique tips to maximize learning outcomes.
- Instrumentation and arrangements: Verify that the arrangements fit trombone (tenor or bass as applicable) and that there are suitable options for study and recital settings.
- Progression potential: Choose sets that offer a natural progression from easy to more challenging pieces to support steady skill development over time.
From Pryor-Influenced Pieces to Modern Repertoire
While Arthur Pryor’s originals remain iconic, many modern collections capture the spirit of his virtuosic playing through accessible arrangements and accompaniment aids. The titles listed here provide a bridge from early brass solos to contemporary practice tools, enabling players to study legato phrasing, intonation, and dynamic contrast typical of Pryor-inspired performances. By combining study pieces with film and jazz selections, players can cultivate a versatile approach suitable for recitals, competitions, and orchestral auditions.