✦ Instrument Overview
This King 3B “Golden Era” trombone, built in Cleveland, Ohio during the mid-1950s, represents one of the finest examples from the H.N. White period—an era revered for impeccable hand craftsmanship and tonal character.
Serial range and construction details place this example between 1955 and 1960, retaining its original lacquer and all factory parts.
One of the key differentiating features of early 3B designs is the longer tuning slide, allowing players to achieve proper pitch without pulling as far as on later models. This subtle but important design trait is one reason many professional jazz players still prefer these early builds for their balance and natural resonance.
This particular horn has received complete shop service including chemical cleaning, slide alignment, and valve inspection. The slide feels responsive and smooth—ready to perform at any level. Cosmetic wear and light bell repair are visible but consistent with age, giving this 3B the patina and character that mark true vintage authenticity.
Includes a 1980s King coffin-style case, functional and protective, though not original. Mouthpiece not included.
✦ Historical Perspective: The 3B and the Rise of Bebop Trombone
The King 3B quickly became synonymous with modern jazz trombone playing in the postwar years. Introduced by the H.N. White Company, its .508″ bore and 8″ yellow brass bell offered the ideal balance of flexibility and projection.
One of the most iconic figures to champion the King 3B was J.J. Johnson (1924–2001)—widely recognized as the father of bebop trombone. Johnson’s command of melodic phrasing and harmonic sophistication helped elevate the trombone to soloist status within modern jazz. His association with the King 3B inspired countless players, and the model remains a benchmark for clarity, projection, and balance in small-bore trombone design.
Even decades later, early H.N. White 3Bs are prized for their lively bell response and effortless feel, often preferred over later Eastlake productions for their tonal warmth and craftsmanship.
🖼️ Photography Note – Early Archive
Photos shown on this page reflect our early photography workflow and equipment, before The Brass Exchange’s studio upgrades. Lighting and image resolution differ from our current standards, but the instrument shown is authentic and documented precisely at the time of sale.
✅ FAQ
Q: What distinguishes an H.N. White-era King 3B from later models?
A: The Cleveland-built 3Bs featured a longer tuning slide, hand-fitted components, and lightweight bells that respond more freely. Many players describe them as having a quicker, more resonant tone than later Eastlake versions.
Q: Is this horn suitable for performance or collection?
A: Both. Despite its age, this example plays beautifully and remains structurally sound. Many working jazz professionals still perform on mid-century 3Bs for their unmatched agility and brightness.
Q: Who made the King 3B famous?
A: J.J. Johnson, one of jazz’s great innovators, was instrumental in popularizing the 3B among bebop and modern jazz trombonists. His sound and precision helped define the horn’s reputation as the gold standard for small-bore jazz trombones.
📌 Archive Reference & Next Steps
This King 3B H.N. White Cleveland trombone has been sold and now resides in our Archive of Sold Instruments, preserved as a resource for musicians and historians studying vintage American brass craftsmanship.
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