New Twist on Classic Brass Instrument at Forge

Students at Forge are learning a traditional instrument with a new twist.

The pBone is a robust and hassle-free beginner trombone. Because the pBone is made from plastic it is extremely durable and strong, and can withstand the inevitable rough treatment it may receive wherever it is taken.

SIPS Education, the not-for-profit education support services provider for Sandwell, the Black Country and the West Midlands, is working with Forge to deliver pBone lessons to year 7 students. Every year, SIPS helps over 8,000 students make music, and believe that arts change lives.

Robert Hayward, the Deputy Music and Arts Manager at SIPS said: “We’ve been part of the development of the pBone, pTrumpet and pBuzz in schools across Sandwell for a number of years and were part of pilot projects in partnership with the manufacturer, Warwick Music Group Ltd. pBone and their other instruments have provided pupils and students an opportunity to be introduced to music and high quality music making with our staff.

The instruments are attractive, lightweight yet robust and well recognised across the sector. They are popular with young people, inspiring them to take up an instrument, learn and start their musical journey.

The students have been grasping the basics of an instrument categorised in recent years as an endangered species. The development and design in the UK between 2007 and 2010 has made this instrument much more accessible. Led by a specialist teacher, large groups of students have been playing traditional songs like When The Saints Came Marching In and hope to perform at an assembly in the near future.

Laura Arnold, teacher of music at Forge said: “The joy of music can last a lifetime and often starts in the classroom. We are grateful to SIPS for their offer of a whole-class ensemble tuition. They lend us instruments for free and provide teaching and encouragement.

We have lots of talented musicians at Forge and we know from experience that first access is an important element in music education. We can’t wait to share our pBone sound with more people.”