1647—Germany

Friedrich Behaim, patron of composer-trombonist Paul Hainlein’s studies in Italy, summarizes his answer to Hainlein’s letter (above): “It is most important now that he try by whatever means to learn the language and also look—even outside Venice—for a good trombone teacher. So that he will be more acceptable to the teacher, he should present him with a good trombone. He shall practice this instrument industriously and perfect himself on it, as well as on the violin and clavier, so that he will be able to bring back a good style, to instruct others, and to organize a good musical life here.” To this end, a trombone is actually purchased by his father and sent to the son, but no record exists that it is ever presented to a teacher (Samuel 16).