1938—New Bedford, Massachussetts

First documented use of trombones in United House of Prayer for All People. Church founded outside New Bedford, MA (1919), then spreads to cities up and down the Southern Railway. Trombones become an integral part of this religious tradition, forming “shout bands,” typically consisting of a lead trombone, 3 to 5 “row” trombones, baritone horn, sousaphone, and trap set. They play primarily by ear, with trombone-dominated music based on the unique “shout” tradition, as well as elements of jazz, gospel, blues, and Dixieland. In the 21st century, shout bands continue to be active in churches in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Washington, DC, and New York City (Hafar).