c. 1530—France

Court instruments begin to be divided into 2 groups: the écurie (stable) and the chambre (chamber). Trombones are part of the écurie, along with violins, shawms, and flutes (Sternfeld 192). Musicians of this group enjoy special privileges: the right of commensaux (meal companions of the king), exemption from many taxes and obligations to church-wardens, exemption from quartering soldiers, gifts of food and clothing, and bonuses for special ceremonies (Whitwell, Baroque 26).