Enlarge the image on the left to see a chart showing the ranges of the different trombones.
Transposing: Trombones are not transposing instruments and so sound as they are written.
In the video clips below Byron Fulcher comments on aspects of trombone range:
clip 1 -
The bass trombone has the same range as the tenor, but is better suited to playing low pedal notes.
clip 2 -
The alto trombone is pitched a fourth higher than the tenor.
clip 3 -
Note that pedal notes are not often used on tenor or alto trombones.
clip 4 -
F5 is the standard top note, but it is possible to go higher.