sackbut

Discover the exclusive collection of sackbuts that we present to you in this catalog at A Un Tono. Where you can find the ideal musical sackbut, with the best balance between quality of sound, durability, and price. Each of our sackbut models highlight this predecessor of the modern trombone as one of the most fascinating brass wind instruments in the history of music.

What is a sackbut and how does it differ from a trombone?

Although at first glance they may seem similar, the sackbut and the modern trombone are instruments with very different characteristics. Sackbuts have a smaller bore, a smaller and less flared bell, and a more intimate, soft, and easily blendable sound that harmonizes well with voices and other string or woodwind instruments. This quality makes it irreplaceable in the Renaissance and Baroque repertoire, where the timbral balance between the voices of the ensemble is essential.

The modern trombone, on the other hand, has a larger bore, a more pronounced bell, and a much more powerful sound projection, designed for large concert halls and symphony orchestras from the 19th century onwards. Using a modern trombone to perform music by Monteverdi, Gabrieli, or Schütz produces a timbral result that is not quite suitable. The sackbut, on the other hand, naturally fits into that repertoire and the type of ensembles for which it was conceived.

Types of sackbut: alto, tenor, and bass

Just as in the families of string or woodwind instruments, the musical sackbut exists in different sizes that cover different ranges within the ensemble. In this catalog, you will find the three most commonly used models in current historicist practice:

Alto Sackbut

The alto sackbut is the highest-pitched in the family and the smallest in size. It is used to cover the contralto or alto voice in sackbut consorts and in early music ensembles where vocal voices are doubled with instruments. It is the least common model of the three, but essential in complete formations.

Tenor Sackbut

The tenor sackbut is the most commonly used model and the usual entry point for trombonists approaching early music for the first time. It covers the tenor voice and is the most versatile of the family, present in virtually all Renaissance and Baroque repertoire for brass ensembles.

Bass Sackbut

The bass sackbut covers the low voice of the ensemble and provides the harmonic foundation to the formation. It is the largest, requires more air capacity, and has a more demanding range, but offers a deep and round sound that solidly supports the ensemble.

Buying a sackbut at A Un Tono

At A Un Tono, we specialize in brass wind instruments of all levels and eras. Our team is made up of professional musicians with real knowledge of historicist repertoire, and we can provide you with informed guidance on which model of sackbut best suits your needs. You can contact us for personalized advice, check availability, or request more information about each model of musical sackbut. If you are near Castellón, you can also visit our physical store and see the sackbuts in person before making a decision.