This S.E. Shires Q35 Alto Trombone is an open box, estate instrument in mint condition, showing virtually no signs of use. Originally purchased new from The Brass Exchange, it was owned by a professional adult player who passed away before having the opportunity to use it extensively.
The instrument has been inspected and verified to be in as-new playing and cosmetic condition. It includes all factory accessories:
Shires factory case
11C mouthpiece
removable leadpipe
care kit
single shoulder strap
Condition
This Q35 is essentially new—no dents, dings, lacquer wear, or slide imperfections. The slide and valve action are as smooth and responsive as when the horn left the Shires factory. The bell, tuning system, and inner slide tubes are flawless, reflecting both careful ownership and professional maintenance.
Every part of the instrument has been inspected and play-tested in our shop to confirm it meets Shires factory performance standards.
About the Q35 Model
The Shires Q35 is a bell-tuned alto trombone featuring a 7″ two-piece yellow-brass bell, lightweight dual-bore (.485) slide, and nickel-silver end crook. The bell-tuning design moves the tuning slide to the bell section, shifting weight toward the player and improving balance and resonance.
This layout gives the Q35 the comfort and feel of a light tenor trombone while preserving the brilliant, singing alto voice that makes it a favorite among orchestral and solo players alike.
The model excels in solo repertoire, Baroque and Classical works, chamber music, and small ensemble performance where clarity and color are essential.
Who It’s For
Ideal for professional players, advanced students, and tenor trombonists seeking a refined, agile alto instrument with effortless balance.
The Q35’s compact weight distribution and bell-tuning design make it comfortable even during long rehearsals or performances.
For players who already own a Shires tenor or bass setup, the Q35 serves as the perfect complementary voice in a modular, high-quality collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this instrument an “open box”?
This Q35 was originally sold new but was barely played. It was part of a private professional musician’s estate and remains in factory-mint condition.
How does the Q35 differ from other alto trombones?
Its bell-tuning system improves balance and frees vibration, giving a more natural feel compared to slide-tuning altos. It feels familiar to tenor players transitioning to alto for the first time.
Is this a professional-level instrument?
Yes. The Q35 is part of the Shires Q Series, designed for professional and advanced-level players seeking Shires craftsmanship at an accessible price point.
What’s included?
The original Shires factory case, 11C mouthpiece, removable leadpipe, care kit, and extra single shoulder strap are all included.
Is this instrument covered by warranty?
As a pre-owned estate instrument, it is not covered under the original factory warranty, but it has been fully inspected and certified for playability by The Brass Exchange.
📌 Archive Reference
This S.E. Shires Q35 Alto Trombone | Open Box Estate Instrument has been sold and now appears here as part of our Historical Archive.
If you currently own a Shires alto trombone and would like help determining its value—or are considering selling or consigning it—we’re always glad to review instruments for our growing archive and collector network. ✍️ Contact us here
👉 Explore other Shires trombones and current inventory
🕑 Looking for what’s next?
Explore our Unpublished Used Trombones and Brass Instruments – Early Access List👉 featuring upcoming arrivals not yet photographed or fully serviced — available soon at The Brass Exchange.
