Overview
This Holton TR-158 large-bore tenor trombone, serial number 536385 from 1976, has now been sold and is preserved here as part of The Brass Exchange Archive of Sold instruments. Built in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, the TR-158 represented one of Holton’s most successful orchestral-style F-attachment designs, often compared to classic large-bore models like the Bach 42B and Conn 88H.
This example featured a 9" rose-brass bell, .547" nickel-silver handslide, traditional rotor wrap, and original lacquer and case. Instruments like this are valued for their balanced orchestral voice — warm, broad, and flexible — while remaining approachable for advancing players moving into their first large-bore tenor trombone.
Before sale, this instrument received full in-house preparation at The Brass Exchange, including chemical cleaning, rotor inspection, slide alignment, and mechanical evaluation. The horn had been lightly played in the late 1970s and stored for decades, presenting as one of those rare “closet classic” instruments that surface only occasionally. The slide was smooth and responsive, the rotor sealed correctly, and overall condition was excellent with original lacquer showing only normal aging.
The TR-158 has long been appreciated for its dark, colorful sound. The rose-brass bell adds warmth and depth, while the nickel-silver slide provides clarity and articulation. For students stepping into their first F-attachment trombone, this model offers dependable performance without the cost of a new professional horn. For experienced players, it occupies a tonal space between Bach and Conn designs — focused yet warm, stable yet flexible.
Vintage Holton TR-158 trombones remain respected as durable, musical instruments that bridge the gap between step-up and professional orchestral playing.
📚 Historical Perspective
Holton’s Elkhorn-era TR-158 models were widely used by advancing students, educators, and working players seeking a reliable large-bore tenor trombone with orchestral character. Clean, original examples with professional service history are increasingly difficult to find, making them useful both as performance instruments and historical reference pieces documenting Holton’s classic Elkhorn production period.
🔧 Availability & Archive Status
This Holton TR-158 trombone has been sold and is now shown here as a historical reference for players researching vintage Holton large-bore tenor trombones.
👉 Browse our current trombone listings here 🔎
or contact us for a valuation and explore your options ✍️.
📌 Archive Reference Note
This Holton TR-158 is now part of our Archive of Sold instruments, helping players compare Elkhorn-era Holton trombones and understand step-up large-bore tenor designs.
