The sackbut is a historical brass instrument that resembles a modern trombone. It was popular during the Renaissance and early Baroque periods, typically made of brass and featuring a slide mechanism to change pitch. The sackbut produces a softer, more mellow sound compared to contemporary brass instruments, making it suitable for ensemble music of its time. This instrument is often associated with early music ensembles and is frequently used in performances of works by composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and Giovanni Gabrieli. The sackbut's design allows for expressive playing, contributing to its unique role in the development of brass music.