Overview
This Martin TR4501 “Urbie Green” tenor trombone is a Kenosha, Wisconsin production from the Leblanc era, estimated to date from the late 1970s to early 1980s. Serial number 115661 aligns with this later Martin production period, when artist-inspired models remained an important part of the company's professional lineup.
The instrument features a 7.5-inch yellow brass bell, .500 bore lightweight handslide, nickel silver neckpipe, and lightweight slide construction throughout. One particularly interesting detail from this era—the original adhesive-mounted slide crook guard—remains intact, a feature that is becoming increasingly uncommon on surviving examples.
Over the years we have handled numerous Martin TR4501 trombones, and this instrument stood out as a particularly clean and well-preserved example of the model.
✦ Historical Perspective
The TR4501 occupies a unique place within Martin trombone history. Although Urbie Green spent much of his performing career associated with King trombones, Martin developed this model to reflect many of the qualities listeners and players associated with his musical approach.
The design emphasized:
- Lightweight feel
- Quick slide response
- Smooth articulation
- Warm, centered tone
- Effortless playability
Rather than focusing on maximum projection, the TR4501 was designed to reward a relaxed playing style and subtle musical nuance. These characteristics made the model especially attractive for small-group jazz, studio work, commercial playing, and lyrical solo performance.
Today, the TR4501 remains one of the more interesting alternatives to the better-known King, Conn, and Bach jazz trombones that dominate the vintage marketplace.
✦ Player Perspective
From a playing standpoint, this is an exceptionally easy instrument to connect with.
The lightweight handslide responds immediately and feels remarkably agile. This particular example featured excellent alignment and smooth action throughout all positions, allowing modern lubricants such as Yamaha Slide Lubricant or Slide-O-Mix to perform exactly as intended.
Tonally, the TR4501 sits in a comfortable middle ground:
- Warm without becoming overly dark
- Clear without sounding aggressive
- Flexible without sacrificing focus
The instrument rewards a relaxed approach and excels in situations where phrasing, nuance, and musical expression matter more than sheer volume.
For many players, the TR4501 feels particularly at home in:
- Small jazz ensembles
- Ballad playing
- Lead trombone work at moderate volumes
- Studio and commercial settings
- Solo jazz performance
Its smooth response and effortless feel remain among the reasons these instruments continue to enjoy a loyal following decades after production ended.
🏅 Why Players Trust The Brass Exchange
For decades, The Brass Exchange has specialized in professional and vintage trombones from makers including Martin, Conn, King, Bach, Holton, Olds, and many others.
Our Archive of Sold collection serves as an ongoing historical resource for:
- Trombone players
- Collectors
- Educators
- Students
- Researchers studying vintage brass instruments
Each archived instrument helps preserve specifications, production details, historical context, and real-world playing observations for future reference.
Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
Is the TR4501 a true Urbie Green model?
Yes. The TR4501 was developed and marketed by Martin as an Urbie Green model, incorporating many of the lightweight and responsive characteristics associated with his playing style.
How does the TR4501 compare to other vintage jazz trombones?
Many players find the TR4501 lighter and more responsive than comparable vintage models. The tonal character tends to be smooth, centered, and flexible rather than highly aggressive or projection-oriented.
Are Martin TR4501 trombones difficult to find today?
While examples occasionally appear on the secondary market, clean and original instruments are encountered far less frequently than comparable King, Conn, or Bach jazz trombones.
🔧 Availability & Archive Status
This Martin TR4501 Urbie Green tenor trombone has been sold and is no longer available. Archive of Sold pages are maintained as historical references for players, collectors, and researchers seeking information about vintage brass instruments.
Current inventory changes regularly. If you are searching for a similar Martin trombone, vintage jazz tenor trombone, or another professional instrument, please contact us regarding current availability.
📌 Archive Reference & Next Steps
This Martin TR4501 Urbie Green tenor trombone has been sold and is now shown here as a historical reference for collectors, players, and vintage brass enthusiasts.
Looking for a similar vintage jazz trombone? 🔎 Browse our current trombone inventory to view available professional, vintage, and pre-owned models.