This S.E. Shires TII5VNY bell section, handcrafted in the Boston Custom Shop, reflects Shires’ dedication to combining modern precision with classic tonal designs. Featuring an 8.5" yellow brass flare, it delivers a rich sound that balances brilliance with warmth — well-suited for orchestral playing, chamber music, and solo performance.
The “VNY” designation stands for Vintage New York, a nod to the iconic Mt. Vernon-era Bach 42 bells. These classic designs were renowned for their warmth, color, and projection, qualities that Shires sought to capture and refine in this modern bell. The TII5 taper offers slightly more openness and breadth compared to the standard TI taper, while retaining excellent slotting and control.
Yellow brass construction contributes to a vibrant yet flexible tonal palette, making this bell a versatile option for players seeking projection without sacrificing warmth. It pairs especially well with Shires “X” taper tuning slides, which enhance airflow and support the bell’s tonal center without excess resistance.
This bell is fully compatible with all S.E. Shires Custom Series trombones and can also be used with Q Series modular tuning slides, offering flexibility across setups.
Condition-wise, this example was in excellent playing condition with no structural issues, making it an attractive option for players seeking to expand or refine their Shires modular system.
This instrument has since been sold and is preserved here as part of our Archive of Sold Instruments & Components, serving as a historical and educational reference for trombonists and collectors researching Shires modular designs.
FAQ 🤔
Q: What does “Vintage NY” mean in the Shires lineup?
A: It refers to Shires’ Vintage New York series, which models its tonal design after Mt. Vernon Bach 42 bells — famous for warmth, resonance, and orchestral versatility.
Q: How does the TII5 taper compare to other Shires bells?
A: The TII5 taper offers slightly more openness and breadth compared to the standard TI bell, while retaining control and consistency across registers.
Q: What material is this bell made from?
A: Yellow brass, which balances brilliance and warmth, making it adaptable for both solo and ensemble playing.
Q: What tuning slides pair best with this bell?
A: Shires recommends pairing it with the “X” taper tuning slide, which complements the bell’s tonal center and airflow.
Q: Is this bell compatible with non-Custom Shires instruments?
A: Yes, it can be paired with Q Series modular tuning slides as well as the full Custom Series modular system.
🎯 Looking for a Shires bell like this one? Browse available S.E. Shires trombones and components 🔎
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