Holton Model TR156 from the mid-1970s, a now-discontinued Holton model known for its unique tonal character and excellent craftsmanship. This example features an unlacquered 9" rose brass bell paired with a yellow brass tuning slide, balance weight, and a nickel silver straight bore .547 handslide. It’s a superbly preserved vintage Holton with no signs of damage or major repairs.
The standout feature is the handslide—one of the finest we’ve seen on any Holton trombone. The inner tubes are perfectly straight with no plating wear, delivering smooth, consistent action that enhances playability. Tonally, this trombone has a classic Holton voice: dark and rich when played with resonance, yet it opens up with vibrant color and brilliance when pushed. It's capable of a wide dynamic and tonal range, making it an incredibly expressive horn in the right hands.
This TR156 would be an excellent choice for an orchestra player seeking a distinctive straight tenor sound or for someone who enjoys playing a Conn 88H but wants more projection and nuance. It also shines as a large bore jazz trombone—ideal for an experienced player who values tonal depth with flexibility.
Comes with a hard shell 88H case by Conn-Selmer in excellent condition. Overall, this is a well-preserved, highly playable vintage horn that stands out in today’s market. With the TR156 no longer in production, quality examples like this one will continue to grow in rarity and value. A solid performer and a smart addition to any serious player's collection.
