the forerunner to today's trombone was called the sackbut. it was first used in the 16th century during the renaissance era of music. in the centuries that followed, the sackbut was gradually improved into today's trombone. beethoven was the first composer to add trombones to the standard symphony orchestra. many different types of music use the unique sound of the trombone to add color and depth. trombones are used in orchestras, concert bands, marching bands, brass bands, big bands, swing bands, ska bands, and jazz ensembles. in the symphony orchestra, it is common to see trombones in a section of three: two tenors and a bass. in a standard big band, a four player section is more typical. this time with three tenors and one bass as the normal arrangement.