What is the key of the Yamaha YSL356?

The Yamaha YSL356 is a Bb/F trombone. It operates in the standard key of Bb but includes a trigger-activated F-attachment to extend its range and provide alternative slide positions.

What material is the YSL356 made from?

The instrument is constructed primarily from gold brass. This material is selected by Yamaha to provide a good balance of durability and a warm, resonant sound characteristic.

What is a dual bore slide?

A dual bore slide features two different diameters for the upper and lower slide tubes. In the YSL356, this design allows the instrument to feel as easy to play as a small bore trombone while producing the larger sound of a medium bore instrument.

Is the Yamaha YSL356 suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is specifically designed for beginners and intermediate players. Its high-quality material selection and dual bore design are intended to help students progress as quickly as possible.

What mouthpiece is included with the YSL356?

The trombone comes with a Yamaha 48 mouthpiece. This is a small shank mouthpiece that is widely regarded as a versatile standard for developing players.

Does the YSL356 come with a case?

Yes, Yamaha includes a moulded hard case with the YSL356. This case is designed to be durable and provide secure protection for the instrument during transport.

What is the typical price range for this model?

The Yamaha YSL356 typically retails for approximately £1358. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and any additional service packages offered.

How does the YSL356 compare to the Conn 52H?

Both instruments are dual bore Bb/F tenor trombones aimed at intermediate players. While they share a similar mechanical layout, the Yamaha is noted for its gold brass construction and specific focus on rapid student progression.

Can the YSL356 be used in a professional orchestra?

While primarily a student and intermediate instrument, its gold brass construction and F-attachment make it capable of performing in various ensembles. However, professional orchestral players typically eventually move to dedicated large-bore symphonic models.

What are the benefits of the F-attachment on this model?

The F-attachment allows the player to reach lower notes and use alternative slide positions. This reduces the need for the longest slide reaches, which is helpful for technical passages and for players with shorter arms.

Is the Yamaha YSL356 a small or medium bore trombone?

It is a dual bore instrument, which means it bridges the gap between small and medium bores. It is designed to play with the ease of a small bore but provide the sound character of a medium bore.

What accessories are recommended for the YSL356?

While it comes with a mouthpiece and case, players may eventually look at specialized mouthpieces like the Denis Wick Classic 2AL for bass-heavy parts, or use a Denis Wick Tuba Practice Mute for quiet sessions, though the 2AL is typically for larger instruments.

Gear article

Yamaha YSL356 Student Bb/F Trombone

The Yamaha YSL356 is a student-to-intermediate level Bb/F tenor trombone designed for rapid progression. Featuring a gold brass construction and a dual bore slide, it combines the ease of play found in small bore instruments with the fuller tonal character of medium bore models.

See live prices

Overview

The Yamaha YSL356 is an entry-level to intermediate trombone specifically engineered to support new learners as they transition into more advanced playing. It is categorized within Yamaha's educational range, prioritizing durability and ease of response. Unlike standard straight student trombones, the YSL356 includes an F-attachment, which allows the player to reach lower notes and utilize alternative positions for improved technical facility.

Design and Construction

A primary feature of the YSL356 is its construction from gold brass. This material is chosen for its acoustic properties and its ability to help students achieve a consistent tone. The instrument utilises a dual bore slide design; this configuration allows the trombone to offer the lower resistance typically associated with small bore instruments while maintaining the projection and depth of sound found in medium bore brassware. This hybrid approach is intended to prevent the player from being overwhelmed by the air requirements of a large-bore symphonic instrument while still providing a professional sound profile.

Sound and Playability

The YSL356 is characterised by a versatile and accessible sound. The gold brass leadpipe and bell contribute to a warm, rounded tone that is suitable for both orchestral and jazz settings. Because of the dual bore slide, the response is quick, making it easier for younger players to develop their embouchure and slide technique. The inclusion of the F-attachment rotary valve provides a mechanical advantage, reducing the physical stretch required for certain slide positions, which is particularly beneficial for students with shorter arms.

Suitability and Package

This model is ideally suited for beginners who intend to stick with the instrument long-term, as well as intermediate students moving up from a simple straight trombone. To ensure the instrument is ready for use immediately, Yamaha includes a small shank Yamaha 48 mouthpiece and a protective moulded hard case. The hard case is designed to withstand the rigours of transport to and from school or rehearsals, offering robust protection for the gold brass finish and delicate slide mechanism.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the market for student and intermediate Bb/F trombones, the YSL356 competes with models like the Conn 52H. While the Conn 52H is also a dual bore instrument, the Yamaha is often cited for its specific focus on material selection and manufacturing consistency. For those seeking an entry-level option, the Grassi STB850 School Series offers a similar configuration at a different price point. In contrast, players specifically looking for specialised range extensions might look towards instruments like the Conn 34H Alto Trombone, though the YSL356 remains the more versatile choice for general-purpose study.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the key of the Yamaha YSL356?: The Yamaha YSL356 is a Bb/F trombone. It operates in the standard key of Bb but includes a trigger-activated F-attachment to extend its range and provide alternative slide positions.
What material is the YSL356 made from?: The instrument is constructed primarily from gold brass. This material is selected by Yamaha to provide a good balance of durability and a warm, resonant sound characteristic.
What is a dual bore slide?: A dual bore slide features two different diameters for the upper and lower slide tubes. In the YSL356, this design allows the instrument to feel as easy to play as a small bore trombone while producing the larger sound of a medium bore instrument.
Is the Yamaha YSL356 suitable for beginners?: Yes, it is specifically designed for beginners and intermediate players. Its high-quality material selection and dual bore design are intended to help students progress as quickly as possible.
What mouthpiece is included with the YSL356?: The trombone comes with a Yamaha 48 mouthpiece. This is a small shank mouthpiece that is widely regarded as a versatile standard for developing players.
Does the YSL356 come with a case?: Yes, Yamaha includes a moulded hard case with the YSL356. This case is designed to be durable and provide secure protection for the instrument during transport.
What is the typical price range for this model?: The Yamaha YSL356 typically retails for approximately £1358. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and any additional service packages offered.
How does the YSL356 compare to the Conn 52H?: Both instruments are dual bore Bb/F tenor trombones aimed at intermediate players. While they share a similar mechanical layout, the Yamaha is noted for its gold brass construction and specific focus on rapid student progression.
Can the YSL356 be used in a professional orchestra?: While primarily a student and intermediate instrument, its gold brass construction and F-attachment make it capable of performing in various ensembles. However, professional orchestral players typically eventually move to dedicated large-bore symphonic models.
What are the benefits of the F-attachment on this model?: The F-attachment allows the player to reach lower notes and use alternative slide positions. This reduces the need for the longest slide reaches, which is helpful for technical passages and for players with shorter arms.
Is the Yamaha YSL356 a small or medium bore trombone?: It is a dual bore instrument, which means it bridges the gap between small and medium bores. It is designed to play with the ease of a small bore but provide the sound character of a medium bore.
What accessories are recommended for the YSL356?: While it comes with a mouthpiece and case, players may eventually look at specialized mouthpieces like the Denis Wick Classic 2AL for bass-heavy parts, or use a Denis Wick Tuba Practice Mute for quiet sessions, though the 2AL is typically for larger instruments.