In every orchestra or band, there is a section that doesn't get the respect it deserves. Oftentimes, it may be the woodwinds. But most of the time, it is the mighty low brass section. There are several instruments that make up this section--all of which (with the exception of one) are not widely played or heard of by anyone.

The Trombone (or T-bone) is truly the most unique of the brass instruments. It does not use valves like the others, but instead uses a single slide that is moved to lengthen or shorten the horn and make the pitch go higher/lower. Trombonists are often very protective of their instrument, for it is rather easy to damage. Variations of the instrument often feature one or more keys. These can be used in place of certain slide positions, especially the ones that reach out really far and run the risk of breaking one's elbow. This instrument should be known of by more people than it is at present, thanks to a famous song that features seventy-six of them.

The Baritone (or B-Tone) is very similar to a little tuba. Many people often mistake it for a little tuba. Others just call it "The Little Tuba." However, there are numerous differences between the baritone and tuba. For instance, the baritone is much much smaller than the tuba. It has a much higher pitch and may even be in a different clef than the tuba. This allows the player, if very skilled, to bring up the pitch into the trumpet range. Such a feat is rather rare due to the fact that no one really cares about it. Variations of the baritone include the euphonium, which is similar in size and range but has one or two more valves than the baritone. Another variation is the Marching Baritone or Ghetto Trumpet. It is much easier to carry and is similar to a very large trumpet.

The Tuba is probably the most well-known low brass instrument. It is large, low pitched, and requires a huge amount of air to play. Tuba players are often stereotyped as overweight, pimply males. Such is often not the case. One tuba player I know personally is not that pimply at all. A variation of this instrument is the sousaphone. It is also large, but wraps around its player so that it can be carried much easier. It was invented by John Phillip Sousa, who was a director of the U.S. Marine Band and is still famous for many of the marches he has composed.