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Just clean the slide. That's where the smell is.
You'll need a trombone snake, dish soap, and a bathtub with warm (but not too hot- too hot will remove some lacquers. Ask me how I know) water.
Take the outer slide off, place both in bathtub gently, run warm water and pour in some soap. Let them soak for a good 20-30 minutes. Come back, snake out inners and outers. Most of the nasty will come out of the top inner tube.
Rinse off thoroughly, get all the nooks and crannies, and especially the inside of the horn. Soap is just as bad as anything already in the slide to breathe in.
Three things:
Check and make doubly sure that there isn't already a list of repertoire (scales, etudes, solos) that they want to hear for ensemble auditions. In my experience as a student and teacher, the vast majority of schools will have such a list. To find out, I would check your college's school or department of music website. If there is no information there, email the director of bands at your school. Be polite and make it short.
If there truly is no prescribed list of what to play, then I would ask... who did you audition for initially? If it was just your applied professor, maybe contact her/him and ask if you should just repeat Morceau Symphonique. The other members of the faculty may not have heard you yet, in which case there's no need to fix what's not broken!
If you receive absolutely no direction from any faculty and you're just itching to try something new, you cannot go wrong with any Rochut etude from the first half of the book. Except #1. #1 is awkward. If you don't have the book, it's cheap. Here's an Amazon link: Melodious Etudes for Trombone - Book 1. You'll need it at some point anyway.
Good luck!
Edit: Punctuation.
I got this case but in a bass style about 8 years ago, and it is still standing strong.
Maybe first try playing 8 quarter notes, then play that same thing but twice as fast. That basically makes them into one full measure of eighth notes. Also try getting a grasp on the counting, switch between "1 2 3 4" (quarter notes) and "1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &" (eighth notes). Be sure to keep a consistent tempo as well.
You can check out this guide I whipped up as a reference, it should be somewhat helpful.
Might I suggest Liquid Bandage. I started using this a few years ago and wish I knew about it all my life.
You've got the right idea about working on things that are difficult for you.
There are a lot of different ways to use the Arban's book. One way I choose what to work on out of the book sometimes is by using a random number generator in relation to the number of pages in the book. For example, I would go to http://www.random.org/ and input the numbers 23 to 202 (I have the older edition, this excludes the very basic exercises and the solos and characteristic studies), then go to whatever page the website generated and spend some time working on that page. I found this method prevented me from getting stuck on one or two exercises and allowed me to vary my practice more.
Thought I'd share this as it's something I've been using for several years now.
Basically, after extensive searching I found a type of cell phone holder that can fit in the metal marching lyres like this one here, and the process to get it to fit is simple. All you need to do is sand the plastic nut until the threaded/cut out part of the holder is exposed and that has a nice section that can be stabilized by the center part of the lyre so it doesn't spin, and the metal can be bent to be snug around the nut. I know there are ones already built out there, but this is a cheaper option, especially if you buy the cell phone holders in bulk from aliexpress or some other place.
My university doesn't have a marching band, but we do have a book with some 200 songs. Usually I just memorize the songs, but until I do I had brought a tablet with me with the music. The only problems I have with that is when I forgot my tablet (or the battery wasn't charged) and when I did use it my bell would be down as I read the music. Since I always have my phone on me, I found this the more convenient option.
Hope this can help y'all out!
Disclaimer: I'm a completely independent brass doubler with no formal training, but I've found comfort in regularly playing trumpet, trombone, and tuba daily.
I think you need an approach that is holistic across the instruments. I started on trombone when I was 10, and picked up trumpet when I was 17/18. I hurt myself on trumpet and had problems going back and forth for a long time. I started doing a bit of free buzzing, as well as long tones, pedal tones, and a slew of other things to correct it, but there were essentially 2 keys to success.
- your lips eventually get used to switching if you do it enough. Like really, you just do it and it starts to feel better. Most often when I hear of people having trouble with the embouchure when doubling, they've done it for a week, of a handful of times. Keep at it.
- Playing efficiently in a way that's not reliant on the mouthpiece. The default with many brass musicians is to play into the mouthpiece. It's hard to describe over text, but you don't want your buzz heavily dictated by the pressure you apply to the mouthpiece and the shape of the mouthpiece. You want the air and the tongue delivering a strong message to to the lips of how fast the air is moving, and the lips should be mostly relaxed, being held firmly in the corners.
The fact that you mention trouble with high notes in particular makes me think it's an efficiency issue. High notes take precision, not power. While my endurance may suffer, I can take 2 weeks away from my instruments and still have the same range when I come back.
This book explains a lot of what I'm saying really nicely. https://www.amazon.com/O5145-Brass-Playing-Harder-Breathing/dp/0825828708
Good luck.
For a minor investment, I suggest getting the LA Clarinet Institute Trombone Archive. It contains hundreds of pieces of music, etudes, study books, etc. You can just pick something and sight read it. Being able to just pull out something I've never seen before and go for it has really helped my sight reading, especially in alto and tenor clef.
Music store employee here, there are books out there for adults that used to play instruments. We sell a line of books called "I used to play (insert instrument)." (here it is on Amazon) It kinda sashes through the fundamentals to re-familiarize you with them. It also has a CD that can be used as a play along or a background track.
That's one way to start, but to be quite honest, there's no substitute for a great instructor. If you build bad habits (there's too many to name), it can become hard to break them further down the road if you've taught yourself to play that way.
Finally, the odd feeling in your lips will go away with time. The more you play, the more your lips become acclimated to the vibrations and will feel less "funky." One way to go through that phase fairly quickly is by doing long tones. It will only help you though if you do them every day you practice (which should be 3-4 times a week to start with, at least). As the long tones become more comfortable, decrease the tempo of the metronome, etc etc.
Hope these few hints and suggestions help you out!
Edit: in addition to helping with your buzzing, the long tones will help you develop a very good, warm, and open sound.
The one I have is plenty loud, and I've even used the aux-in feature to play along with some charts, all though it sounds like I'm in a big empty concert hall. But than again, the one I have is also a first gen, perhaps their upgrades were more of a downgrade...
...perhaps an inline amplifier like this one could help?
I recently picked up the Audiotechnica AT2005 and love it! It sounds great, and it has both usb and XLR usage. It costs as much as the Shure SM57 sounds just as good, but you don't need the audio interface. You can still use an audio interface for a bit higher refresh rate (which doesn't make that much of a difference to normal ears), but it gives you room to add on to it later without the upfront cost of needing an interface. You can even pick it up in a nice bundle with a mount and headphones for an extra $30 on amazon.
I would also suggest getting a cheap soldering iron.
Depends what you mean by cheap. But I like this case. But it’s $125. Light weight and lots of good storage. Protec MX306CT Tenor Trombone (F-Trigger or Straight) Case https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001BAJO4Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_Cc0PFbA4VD5PH
How painful is it for you to play with braces? I ask because I had them and played with them for 5 years starting in middle school and then high school and it wasn't until I had something between my teeth and my chops that I made any progress. What can I say, tiny sharp pieces of metal ripping into my face made it hard for me!
I used jet tone lip protectors for most of those 5 years. I'm including a link here. I know they don't have great reviews on Amazon, but you can also try wax or something else.
My $.02.
https://www.amazon.com/JET-TONE-LIPP-1317-Jet-Tone-Protector/dp/B01B9QZJ90
Tone is the biggest thing I worked on, so I may be able to help a little bit! But like others said, a private teacher will be able to help WAY more than any of us. So here's the biggest things that helped me:
- Air exercises. Seriously, your air supports everything as far as tone and strength of sound. I think I learned using Air Gym which was run by tuba players. It's kind of silly, but it really helps. Tip: if you're getting light headed, you're doing it right!
- Next, I used this warmup book (but the bass trombone version). It forces you to blow long and hard. It also helps you control your tuning and notes rather than relying on the breaks from the instrument. If you go to college for music, you might have to buy this book anyway, so it's well worth it.
- As far as some extra little tiny things that you can work on that I learned in college, try relaxing your shoulders and your throat. I had a "tight" tone that started opening up when I relaxed my throat in particular. It feels really weird when I was learning and I had some trouble controlling my embouchure for a while, but the difference it made was HUGE.
- And I'll repeat again, finding a tutor, teacher, anyone who can help you 1 on 1 will be able to direct your attention a bit more. Your issues are likely completely different from mine. this is just what helped me.
Back in High School, a friend and me managed to play the one out of THIS book labeled "Part II" at the top of the page. I'd recommend this book as a practice aid even if you choose something else: https://www.amazon.com/Celebrated-Trombones-Euphoniums-Baritones-instruments/dp/B005JJCS02/ref=sr\_1\_3?crid=2Y6DNGVU050VN&keywords=Amsden%27s+Celebrated+Practice+Duets+for+trombone&qid=1670527090&s=books&sprefix=amsden%27s+celebra...
THESE start intermediate and get a LOT tougher as they go along. It's mostly a practice/exercise book, but there are several in there that are good for performances as well. I would highly recommend this one: https://www.amazon.com/Celebrated-Trombones-Euphoniums-Baritones-instruments/dp/B005JJCS02/ref=sr\_1\_3?crid=2Y6DNGVU050VN&keywords=Amsden%27s+Celebrated+Practice+Duets+for+trombone&qid=1670527090&s=books&sprefix=amsden%27s+celebra...
For sure. I first polished with a silt cloth then used these which are amazing. The oil on them slows down tarnishing. Miracle All Purpose Polishing... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012BJVMKY?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share. I also did a brushed finish when I was done stripping it with Brasso and a 3M between coats finishing pad.
This: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07QR73T66?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_dt_b_product_details
With this: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00B8XGK8Y?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_dt_b_product_details
Works really well for me.
I checked Amazon but found this instead. I’m not 100% sure but I bet this is better:
I like lew gillis etude book (https://www.amazon.com/70-Progressive-Studies-Modern-Trombone/dp/1581060726) . It progresses downward on each position. The first few etudes use trigger 1 notes (F and C), then trigger 2 (E and B) etc.
I've never worn braces, but pretty much every brass player I knwo who has had braces used folded paper strips or some other thin barrier between their braces and lips to prevent cuts. How it woork in the back, I'm not sure, unless you could get some sort of guard that slips over your teeth or something. Your orthodontist may have something available.
There's also this: https://www.amazon.com/Morgan-Bumper-Braces-Cover-Protector/dp/B00RMCQORM
I have the bass version of the Protec Max. It's light, durable, and hold everything I need.
It even has cleaning rod loops. It's also within the price range of what they gave you.
If you are trying to not spend amount of money, this is a great choice! I used the Bass Trombone version for years before switching to gig bags for more local stuff.
If you have something like an iRig which allows you to use XLR mics on an ipad/iphone (and maybe android, haven't tried), and a shure sm57 would probably be much wiser purchase. Even if you don't, an iRig and a shure 57/58 would be about half the cost of a Zoom Q8. Then you can use the leftover money on an interface when you wanna record at home.
I'm a self-taught amateur composer, and while I've written for brass before (and even got performed), this is my first band piece.
Here are the full score plus parts in case you wanna nitpick something, your feedback's invaluable :)
P.S. I'm aware the piece's a bit over the top, I'm still thinking whether that's a good or a bad thing.
Honestly, buy one of these.
They aren’t very expensive, they work extremely well, and they’re guaranteed to be 100% safe for your trombone, since that’s what they were designed for.
Your idea is clever, and there’s a good chance it’ll be fine, but why risk it? Maybe it could fall off, or maybe it could scratch the finish of your instrument. Either of those things would put you back more than $35.
Contact Cement for the leather, and you can pick up a handle like this, depending on if the metal loops are still on the case. If they are, you'll use a pair of pliers to separate the D ring, slip on the new handle, and then crip it back onto the case.
maybe JHorn? they are basically plastic baritone in kids size, and can read the same clef as normal tenor trombone. soprano and alto would probably need to read transposed sheets, which may cause some challenge when switching to a bigger trombones later on (which is kinda a good thing?)
also normal size trombone/Pbone may cause pressure on his hands and wrists (especially left hand), probably not safe for a developing kid, a thumb rest is necessary.
Just released a new podcast about playing trombone during the Coronavirus would love for you to listen and tell me about your experience during this and what's helping you get through the pandemic.
Pods up a bit rough but its a start
Lots of kids use this Protec case for their Bach 42, I am sure it will fit the 888ho
I'll keep an eye on Ebay for both, thanks. There are a bunch of Yamaha YSL-354 mostly going for sub $500, on the king side, not many 3bs, but this 2b looks interesting, is it just a smaller horn than the 3b?
Came up in a feed when I opened firefox a few minutes ago (link to the article), and I thought it was appropriate.
As /u/BlurryBrass mentioned, the proper tool is to use a mouthpiece puller. I have one of these cheap ones that I keep in my case in case one of my fellow pep band members gets theirs stuck (happens on average once a year) but if you're in a school band, your band director might have one.
One emergency trick that we used to do that sometimes worked was to take a second mouthpiece and lightly tap the rim of that to the cup of the stuck mouthpiece while carefully twisting it out and pulling up. The vibrations from the tapping along with the twist/pull sometimes is enough to break it free, but you don't want to twist too hard because if it's really stuck and you twist really hard you could mess up the leadpipe.
Another trick that works involves fire and ice, but I'm not going to go into that because you're likely to either hurt yourself or damage the instrument.
If your band director doesn't have one, or you don't have a second mouthpiece to tap with, your best option is to take it to a shop because they deal with this stuff all the time.
My mic is the AT2005 and I love it! While teaching zoom lessons, I also find using wireless earbuds is HUGE so that I have all the clearance I need. Headphones and trombones generally don't work very well together unless you got a small head.
Whatever you decide to use, consider using a metronome as well. The Soundbrenner app is amazing, or if you prefer a physical device (I cannot recommend this metronome enough)[https://www.amazon.com/BOSS-DB60-DB-60-Metronome/dp/B000EMPR16?th=1]. Not sure how easy they are to find these days, I bought mine over ten years ago and it's an absolute workhorse that'll do just about anything you can think of.
You got a cleaning sheath? They are really good, and literally saved me from sending out a slide to get dent work. Turns out all it needed was a good cleaning.
A muffler? You mean a mute? If you are talking about a mute, you can't go wrong with a Denis Wick straight mute. If it doesn't specify what kind, it typically means a straight mute.
Found this that might work…
Headphone Amplifier, Portable 3.5mm HiFi Audio Earphone Amp Supports Impedance 16-300Ω for MP3/MP4 /Phones/Digital Players/Computers/Xbox one,PS4,PS5 Controller https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07Z1V634H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_HVVYDBFGTASB8EHPEJY3
Thoughts?
Increase the tempo a little bit every day or week. Add and octave to some, and eventually all, 12 majors.
Already play in 2 octaves? Add a 3rd. 👀
Also, there's 3 Minor variations for every major scale. Already playing all 48 Major and Minor scales accurately in 2 to 3 octaves at a blazing fast tempo?
Then you're amazing at your instrument and you're ready to explore some pretty advanced ideas. May I recommend Patterns For Jazz by Coker?
Patterns for Jazz -- A Theory Text for Jazz Composition and Improvisation: Bass Clef Instruments https://www.amazon.com/dp/0769230172/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_V93KGGMEAGZ29NM2TS1P
Have you had the horn professionally cleaned? You may need to get the outerslide really clean with a trombone rod sheath. I used one back when I got a used 42, and I thought the slide was gonna need a lot of dent work. After going with the rod sheath for a couple minutes, the slide moves really well!
Have you considered a hand brace? I use the neotech hand grip, and found that my slide technique improved cause I wasn't holding that little bit of weight with my slide hand. It really freed up the wrist.
If you want to spend the large amount of money, you could get a Butler carbon fibre slide. They weigh practically nothing, and helps people with their slide technique.
I use these, which have a 9db cancellation, but let you hear all frequencies at that level.
If you do any playing at consistent 85db ish or higher, you need to be wearing protection. Most big bands, wind bands with loud percussion sections, etc.
Also, it takes practice to use- you don't just plonk them in your ears and everything is normal. You need to spend a solid chunk of time getting used to the new feedback paradigm with them in. Don't just toss them in in 1 rehearsal, feel strange, and never use them again- that's a route to hearing loss.
Heyo! Mouthpiece technician here, all you need is a quick wash with dish soap, a silver polish cloth, a microfiber cloth, and some elbow grease. This will help the plating not get any abrasions or scratches. I’ll add a link to where you can get a pack of silver cloth wipes.
so there’s the new one which is Essential Elements for Band, and Essential Elements 2000 which is a predecessor, here’s the link for the first one mentioned, https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Elements-Band-Trombone-Book/dp/0634003224/ref=asc_df_0634003224/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312115090752&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=13616414557856936367&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&...
Whenever I get a price and I can't figure out the rhythm or pitch I use this free app Maestro where you can write out the piece and then play it back
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.futuresculptor.maestro
What trombone are you using? If it is a large bore, a Bach 5g would be a great size! The 6 1/2 AL is a bit too shallow for large bore tenors. If you are still on a small bore, just look for a new 6 1/2 AL. Most important of all is to ask your lesson teacher (If you, or the school, has one)
As for a mute, I recommend this practice mute right here. It gets it super quiet, and doesn't affect pitch too much. Plus, it MIGHT fit inside your bell while in the case so it doesn't take up too much room. I say might, because it could stick out a bit and that would be bad for your bell. My friend got his Edwards bell a bit crinkled from having his practice mute in the bell on a flight, so be careful.
Since you’re able to read bass clef, I would recommend learning the slide positions (There are tons of charts online). Valve fingerings for trumpet translate directly with trombone slide positions, so you could learn that way. From there, I’d highly recommend learning your major scales on trombone with the positions under your belt. If you want to play out of a methods book, the book my district uses to teach 5th grade beginners how to play their instruments was called “Standard of Excellence”.
Amazon Link: PW21TB - Standard of Excellence Enhanced Book 1 - Trombone https://www.amazon.com/dp/0849707617/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_UAltCb20QEG7C
Note: This book was meant for young kids, so it may be underwhelming for someone who can read sheet music and can already make a buzz. If that’s the case, i’d recommend the 2nd volume.
Amazon Link: PW22TB - Standard of Excellence Enhanced - Book 2 - Trombone https://www.amazon.com/dp/084970779X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_4CltCbKT622Q2
I’d recommend going to a local music shop and checking these out prior to purchase, since i’ve never helped a trumpet player learn trombone, I can’t pinpoint exactly where you should start because I can’t hear where you’re at.
Long tones are great, basically just playing long notes and transitioning to different notes will help you find the right buzz and right tone. From there work on lip slurs, basically not using the slide at all and going from one note in 1st position (closed) to the next not up in 1st still then the next, etc then back down.
I recommend Arban's which will get you going from the start right through to some pretty in depth stuff. (Just google Arban's Method for Trombone. Once you are on your way and looking for something more intermediate I'd reccoment Rochut's Melodious Etudes. https://www.amazon.ca/Melodious-Etudes-Trombone-Book-1/dp/0825801494
Some mute holders use rods to hold the mutes. Put a cloth around it, and it works great for a soprano. This is the type of mute holder I'm talking about: https://www.amazon.com/Mute-Holder/dp/B0047E1H52
This is a good option on Amazon. Larger than most. Precision Pressure Original Bathroom Toilet Plunger Suction Cup with Long Wooden Handle Fix Clogged Toilets - Large 7" for efficient Suction! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06ZY2WXCW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_vzZwEbJ6TZ5ZY
If you get a folding music stand, get a quality one. Not one of those shitty chrome ones they sell at every music store with a skeleton desk and so little mass that a good sneeze will send them flying. Invest a little extra for something sturdy with a solid desk like this and you'll be much happier.
This 6 1/2 AL on Amazon would be a fine beginner mouthpiece. $35.
https://www.amazon.com/Faxx-Trombone-Mouthpieces-small-shank/dp/B001VO9FNM
That particular Jupiter is what is called a small bore horn and uses a small shank receiver. Bach 5g are available in small shank, but they are a little harder to find as that is a large mouthpiece to use on a small bore horn. You may want to instead consider a Bach 6.5al, which is slightly smaller than the 5G, but still much larger than the 12c. If you want a cheaper version of this mouthpiece look for the Faxx 6.5al. Available many places, but here's one
https://www.amazon.com/Faxx-Trombone-Mouthpieces-small-shank/dp/B001VO9FNM
There are many options available for horns with F attachments. They most commonly come in large bore sizes (so a large shank Bach 5g is actually a nice mouthpiece in this case). However, they can also be found in medium and small bore. The question is how much are you wanting to spend? Have you talked to your band director about it at all?
Absolutely, a whole book of fantastic fundamental exercises! No need to buy from amazon, ideally get it fro. Y your local music store. Below is a link to be sure you get the right book. https://www.amazon.com/Daily-Drills-Technical-Studies-Trombone/dp/1617271446
This plus a small spray bottle with water is what I use. I can get away with oiling 1-2X a week, and spraying my slide with water when it gets a little dry
Edit: words
I highly recommend this one by Tiger that I used for my trombone - my Olds is a small shank/smaller trombone so it might not fit your Bach, but if it comes in your size I highly recommend.
The hard foam is a wonder material - extremely rigid but a lot lighter, which I appreciated ever since walking an hour home from high school band class, carrying a heavy velvet-and-plastic case. Makes it extremely viable as a lightweight backpack style.
A friend of mine (also a brass musician) was highly skeptical of the foam, but when he felt it and tested it out himself, he was convinced. It also passed the airport test for me - I put a "FRAGILE" slip on it, and it came out just fine after a 6 hour flight.
After 4+ plastic cases and the wooden case that I've used, I'm never going back - hard foam is great.
I have two. This one. I don’t use this for gigs or anything I just keep my tenor on it in my room.
And this one which I use for everything pretty much
Both are very sturdy and great stands. The Hercules one is weird and kind of annoying to take the trombone off of every time you want to go to play if you’re using it in rehearsals or something. It won’t work with a bass with a finger trigger though because of the way it holds the instrument. The K&M is a good all purpose and reliable stand so I would recommend it.
It might actually be a K&M travel stand, but most people, including myself, mean this one: K&M Stands K&M-Black Trombone Stand (14990.000.55) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005OS4RJI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_5clkCbVE9QVK8
Buy The Breathing Gym. Have your doctor evaluate the workout and make sure it won't hurt you. Then breathe better.
Buy a BERP (https://www.amazon.com/BERP-BERP4-Trombone/dp/B0002F59RW). It allows you to buzz the mouthpiece and move the slide at the same time. 30 seconds of work with it can improve a piece tremendously.
"Brass playing is no harder than deep breathing." - Claude Gordon
Work on deep diaphragmatic breathing. Your pitch control is actually your tongue. Think "Eee" for higher notes and "Aww" for low notes. https://www.amazon.com/dp/0825832888/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_AFDtBbMYC0JJH
I owned one of the ProTec ProPac cases (https://smile.amazon.com/Protec-Tenor-Trombone-Contoured-Case/dp/B0006JDQR4/ref=sr_1_sc_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1526777912&sr=8-2-spell&keywords=protec%2Bpropac%2Btrombone&th=1). Technically you can fit a trombone stand inside of it but you have to not have the compartment zipped shut which is not so great for the zippers. They also weight quite a bit. But if the extra weight is worth it to carry the stand it might be an option. I'd lean towards the Bonna honestly but I also am not a huge fan of that style of case either.
Worry less about solo pieces and get into the Arban's. Work your way through the whole book!
I bought the mic I use off of Amazon. The listing is below:
Neewer NW-700 Professional Studio Broadcasting Recording Condenser Microphone & NW-35 Adjustable Recording Microphone Suspension Scissor Arm Stand wit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XOXRTX6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_urejdYHZPZTUQ
There are plenty of mics that you can buy on Amazon that are reasonably priced. You will need to buy an audio interface to control the levels or, if that's not an issue for you, you can just buy the phantom power supply and plug it into your computer. You can use Audacity as a DAW without needing the audio interface.
Hope this helps.
HAhahahha.
I've got both of those books, and I'm doing almost exactly the same thing that you are! I added in the Rhythmic Training so that I could still be doing things related to music when I don't feel like unpacking my trombone.
I plan on finding/making some flashcards that have the slide positions and alternate ones too.
So. It sounds like we're in the exact same place, I think? There's that page in the front of the Rubank's method that you can use to walk through the exercises. We could maybe go through that and hold each other accountable?
You'll see lots of jazz/pop etc bands using IEMs for live monitoring, you can think about investing in a pair. I've been looking at $250 Alclair entry model: https://alclair.com/monitorshop/versa/
Otherwise the musician's plugs that Etymotic sells work pretty well: https://www.amazon.com/Etymotic-Research-Protection-Earplugs-Standard/dp/B0044DEESS/
Which K&M is it? I'm talking about this one-
https://www.amazon.com/Precision-Trombone-Stand-Standard/dp/B0002Y2UFC
which you would have to try very, very hard to tip over, even with a bass on it.
Yamaha slide oil/lubricant is what you're looking for. It's not actually "oil" like a horn player would think of it - it's kind of viscous and actually contains soap that keeps your slide in excellent shape (especially for beginners and those who don't play too often!). I've been using it on my horns exclusively for almost 5 years, and I'm only on my second bottle. It lasts forever.
https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-YAC1021P-Trombone-Slide-Oil/dp/B0049P5U7A
Old one looks like a normal (rounded) mute.
New one has a flat bottom and fits completely in the bell. I was skeptical until I tried one that a friend had at a rehearsal. Very surprising.
I don't know how good this brand is (probably not that good, but if you're just starting off, you might not need a whole lot), but you can get a metal 12C from Amazon for $10. Probably cheaper than even that Kelly is (which is the only one your local music store has that'll fit your horn; those Denis Wicks are large-bore mouthpieces).
This is the book you are looking for, I believe. I use it as a foundation for teaching my small groups and private students to improvise. ANYTHING written by Jerry Coker will be a home-run.
Which mouthpiece would go with that pbone?
http://www.amazon.com/Blessing-MPC65ALTRB-61-Trombone-Mouthpiece/dp/B000EEJAXU/
or
http://www.amazon.com/Blessing-MPC12CTRB-12C-Trombone-Mouthpiece/dp/B0002FOAC2