Trombone on suitcase

Parting with the Trombones

I’ve had a secret in my closet since high school. There, safely in their cases, sit two “Olds” trombones. Why two? The first chair player in high school, whose dad happened to own the local music store, upgraded to a horn that had a larger bore, and an F key which made it look way cooler than my standard-issue intro horn. Suddenly I rationalized, it wasn’t my lack of practice holding me back, it was the equipment. Golfers will understand this logic.

Owning two is one thing, holding onto them for 40 plus years is another matter. Let’s face it, the neighbors would frown upon any renewed interest in playing, and it’s a rare individual that picks up the trombone after work to relax. Turning pro is out, too. Bands don’t look for middle-of-the-road trombone players who won’t practice.

So, after 40 plus years of silent solitude, these trombones are hitting the road—somewhere. I've decided to contact my old high school music department to see if they might have a use for two vintage trombones.

Literally or figuratively, I suppose all of us have 'trombones' in our closets. Take it from the guy that only took 40 years to make the decision, find them a new home-you will be surprised at how rewarding it is to free up the space.

PS. It could have been worse, I was thinking about playing the tuba.

Any opinions are those of Nathan Clakley and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. There is no guarantee that these statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected.