The tenor trombone is a brass instrument known for its rich, warm sound. It is typically pitched in the key of B♭ and has a slide mechanism that allows players to change notes by extending or shortening the length of the instrument. This unique feature distinguishes it from other brass instruments, such as the trumpet or tuba, which use valves. Tenor trombones are commonly used in various music genres, including classical, jazz, and marching bands. They often play both melodic and harmonic roles in ensembles, contributing to the overall texture of the music. The instrument is played by buzzing the lips into a mouthpiece, producing a wide range of notes.