Overview
This S.E. Shires Blair Bollinger Custom Series bass trombone is a professional-level instrument designed for players seeking a highly efficient orchestral bass trombone with exceptional flexibility and tonal depth.
Approximately five years old and owned by a single player, this example has been carefully maintained and has just completed a full professional shop service at The Brass Exchange, including chemical cleaning, detailed inspection, alignment evaluation, and play test. All components remain original factory Shires parts, and the instrument has never sustained damage or required repair work.
The Blair Bollinger model has become increasingly recognized among professional bass trombonists for its balance of efficiency, projection, and responsiveness. Unlike heavier traditional bass trombone builds, the lightweight axial flow valve system helps create a quicker, more immediate feel under the air while still maintaining the broad tonal foundation expected in modern symphonic playing.
Player Perspective
This example features the 9.5" yellow brass Bollinger artist bell paired with a matching yellow brass tuning slide, producing a sound that is broad, warm, centered, and capable of substantial orchestral presence without becoming overly dense or resistant.
One particularly interesting customization is the reduced bracing modification performed by the previous owner on the valve wrap. The lighter brace setup creates a slightly more open and resonant response throughout the instrument. Importantly, the original brace components are included, allowing the next owner to return the instrument to a more standard factory configuration if desired.
The interchangeable Gb/D tuning slide crooks provide multiple second valve configurations, allowing players to tailor response, slotting, and intonation characteristics depending on repertoire and personal preference. For advanced orchestral players, this level of modular flexibility can be highly valuable in adapting the instrument to different ensemble environments.
The dual bore .562"–.578" handslide offers a comfortable balance between projection and efficiency while maintaining a stable low register and clear articulation response.
Condition Summary
- Single owner instrument
- Approximately five years old
- Full professional shop service completed
- No damage history
- No repair history
- Excellent slide alignment and response
- Smooth lightweight axial flow valve operation
- Minimal cosmetic wear in normal contact areas
- Original factory components throughout
Specifications & Features
- Model: S.E. Shires Blair Bollinger Custom Bass Trombone
- Bell: 9.5" Yellow Brass Bollinger Artist Bell
- Tuning Slide: Yellow Brass
- Valves: Lightweight Axial Flow (Bb/F/Gb/D)
- Slide: Dual Bore .562"–.578" Yellow Brass
- Leadpipe System: Interchangeable
- Included Leadpipes: 3
- Valve Wrap: Modified reduced bracing (original braces included)
- Included Tuning Crooks:
- Bollinger-specific Gb/D setup
- Standard Gb/D setup
- Thumb Rest: Adjustable/removable ergonomic bar
- Included Case: Marco Magi Shires-logo case
Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
What makes the Blair Bollinger model unique within the Shires lineup?
The Blair Bollinger model focuses heavily on efficiency, flexibility, and responsiveness. Compared to heavier traditional bass trombone configurations, this setup emphasizes quicker articulation and a more immediate feel while still delivering a broad symphonic sound.
Why are interchangeable Gb/D tuning crooks useful?
The included tuning crooks allow the player to alter the second valve configuration and response characteristics. Advanced bass trombonists often appreciate the ability to customize intonation tendencies, resistance, and feel depending on repertoire and ensemble demands.
Is this instrument appropriate for professional orchestral playing?
Yes. This model was specifically developed for high-level orchestral and large ensemble performance and offers the projection, tonal depth, and flexibility expected in professional symphonic settings.
S.E. Shires offers several valve designs and build philosophies across both the Q Series and fully Custom Series instruments. The Blair Bollinger model featured here belongs to the Custom Series lineup and incorporates lightweight axial flow valves designed for maximum efficiency, flexibility, and orchestral projection.
Players researching the differences between Shires valve systems, modular configurations, and setup options may also find this guide helpful:
👉 Understanding Bass Trombone Valve Types – Shires Q Series vs Custom Series Explained
🔧 Availability & Archive Status
This S.E. Shires Blair Bollinger Custom Bass Trombone has been sold and now remains published as part of our historical Archive of Sold instruments. These archive pages serve as an educational and research resource for players, collectors, and musicians comparing professional trombone models over time.
Availability changes frequently, and current inventory may include similar professional bass trombones from Shires and other leading makers.
Why Players Trust The Brass Exchange
Since 2010, The Brass Exchange has specialized in professional and vintage brass instruments with a player-first approach focused on accuracy, transparency, and expert evaluation. Every instrument is carefully inspected, serviced, and play tested prior to shipment.
As an authorized S.E. Shires Pro Shop for many years, we have worked directly with advancing students, professional performers, educators, and collectors throughout the United States and internationally.
📌 Archive Reference & Next Steps
This instrument is now part of our Archive of Sold trombones and remains here as a historical reference for players researching the S.E. Shires Blair Bollinger Custom bass trombone model.
🔎 Looking for a similar professional bass trombone? Browse our current inventory or contact us regarding upcoming arrivals and trade-in opportunities.
🔄 Considering selling or trading your Shires trombone? Contact us for a valuation and explore your options ✍️
