Jonathan Frakes’ Real Trombone Skills in Star Trek: The Next Generation and Beyond

Many fans of Star Trek: The Next Generation have wondered whether actor Jonathan Frakes, who played the role of Commander William T. Riker, actually knew how to play the trombone or if he was faking it. The truth may surprise you! Let's explore the reality behind this iconic character's musical talent.

Frakes and the Trombone: Expertise or Impostor?

Jonathan Frakes, known for his commanding presence as Commander Riker on Star Trek: The Next Generation, has been the subject of numerous discussions regarding his trombone-playing abilities. However, it appears that Frakes truly does have an understanding of the instrument; it's just that his expertise is more basic than many might imagine. Let's dive into the facts.

Frakes’ College Experience

Jonathan Frakes' musical journey began during his college days. He was a member of the college marching band, where the skills he possessed were sufficient to play simple tunes. In a marching band setting, the emphasis is on familiarity with the instrument and the ability to play in a group setting, rather than intricate solos or advanced techniques. This experience laid the groundwork for Frakes’ understanding of the trombone.

The Reality Behind the Trombone Performance in Star Trek: The Next Generation

While Frakes did play the trombone in Star Trek: The Next Generation, it's important to note that the sophistication and complexity of the playback in the show were beyond what he was capable of performing live. For occasions where a more polished and skilled performance was needed, the show's production team employed an actual trombonist named Ben Waltrous to overdub the trombone parts. This was common practice in the television industry to ensure high-quality sound and performance.

Frakes' Advanced Musical Experience

Interestingly, Jonathan Frakes does possess more advanced musical abilities. In fact, he has been known to play other instruments as well, including the piano and guitar. His background in music extends beyond just the trombone. He has also appeared as a guest on Phish's online streaming platform, livePhish, performing a cover of the song "You Enjoy Myself." This is a testament to his genuine musical skills and experience.

Conclusion

While Jonathan Frakes may not be a professional trombonist, his experience in a college marching band and his involvement in musical collaborations with artists like Phish demonstrate that his supposed insecurities about playing the trombone in Star Trek: The Next Generation were unfounded. He truly does have a basic understanding of the instrument, but it's the overdubbing techniques used in the production of the show that play a significant role in the final quality of his performance as Commander Riker.