S.E. Shires Q36GA Q-Series Bass Trombone Overview

The S.E. Shires Q36GA Q-Series Bass Trombone is a professional-level independent-valve bass trombone built for players who need a broad, clear sound, a responsive low register, and flexible valve combinations in orchestral, wind ensemble, brass band, chamber, and commercial settings. Its 9 1/2-inch two-piece hand-hammered QII taper gold brass bell produces a warm, singing tonal core with strong projection and clarity, while the .562-inch yellow brass handslide and nickel-silver crook support a broad sound with crisp articulation. Independent axial flow valves provide an open valve register and expanded slide-position options for advanced bass trombone playing.

S.E. Shires Q36GA Q-Series Bass Trombone Specifications

• Key: Bb/F/Gb, independent valve configuration
• Finish: Clear lacquer over gold brass and yellow brass components
• Bell: QYB 9 1/2-inch two-piece hand-hammered QII taper gold brass bell with soldered bead
• Valves: Independent axial flow valves
• Bore: .562-inch bass trombone bore
• Handslide: Q62 standard-weight yellow brass handslide with nickel-silver crook
• Tuning Slide: QYB tuning slide
• Case: S.E. Shires Q Series bass trombone case
• Accessories: Three interchangeable yellow brass leadpipes, large shank Laskey 90D mouthpiece, and care kit
• Serial number: Q22046

Condition & Setup

This S.E. Shires Q36GA is a pre-owned instrument with very little use. A dent was removed the bell which has let a very faint cosmetic scar. It has been professionally serviced, set up, and play-tested in our shop to confirm proper mechanical function, slide action, valve response, and playing condition.

Who the Q36GA Q-Series Bass Trombone Is For

The S.E. Shires Q36GA is an independent-valve professional bass trombone designed for advanced students, collegiate players, freelancers, and professional trombonists who need a versatile instrument with a warm gold brass sound and an open valve register. It is suitable for players who require the depth and breadth of a modern bass trombone while retaining clarity, color, and projection across registers.

Within the Q-Series bass trombone lineup, the Q36GA is distinguished by its gold brass QII taper bell, .562-inch standard-weight slide, and independent axial flow valve system. The result is a bass trombone with a full low register, clear front of note, and flexible alternate-position options for technically demanding repertoire.

Common Questions About the S.E. Shires Q36GA

Is the S.E. Shires Q36GA suitable for professional bass trombone work?

Yes. The Q36GA is built with professional bass trombone specifications, including a .562-inch bore, 9 1/2-inch hand-hammered bell, and independent axial flow valves. It is appropriate for serious orchestral, wind ensemble, brass ensemble, and freelance use.

What does the gold brass bell contribute to the sound?

The gold brass bell gives the Q36GA a warm, broad tonal profile with a singing core, while the hand-hammered QII taper and soldered bead help maintain projection and clarity. This makes it useful for players who want depth without losing definition.

Why choose independent axial flow valves on a bass trombone?

Independent axial flow valves allow the player to use each valve separately or together, expanding alternate slide-position options. The axial design also supports an open, even valve register with reduced resistance compared with many traditional valve designs.

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