The S.E. Shires Q20 combines a Geyer-style wrap with yellow-brass construction for a warm, open sound and a balanced response. Its medium-throat, handspun bell provides clarity and projection, making it a versatile choice for ensemble and solo playing.

Rotax valves support consistent operation, while the detachable bell flare allows the horn to pack more compactly for transport.

• Series: Q Series
• Key: F/Bb double horn
• Wrap: Geyer style
• Construction: Yellow brass
• Bell: Handspun yellow brass with medium throat
• Bell flare: Detachable
• Valves: Rotax
• Finish: Lacquer
• Case included: Q Series zippered backpack-style horn case
• Mouthpiece included: Shires mouthpiece
• Care supplies included: Ultra-Pure maintenance kit, with oil, tuning-slide grease, and cleaning cloth

Compatible case options (sold separately):

• Marcus Bonna MB-5 Baby 2
• Marcus Bonna MB-SD Soft
• Marcus Bonna Square Backpack Bag

Construction details

The leadpipe and bell tail are joined with a long solder joint rather than conventional bracing.

• Lever-style water key on the leadpipe
• Alexander-compatible bell collar

Schedule an in-person or Zoom appointment here to discuss your options with a professional horn player.

Warranty

Your investment is protected with the Houghton Horns New Instrument Warranty. Enjoy two years of coverage for defects in material and workmanship. Keep your instrument in perfect condition.

What Makes Houghton Horns Special

Houghton Horns is special because of its deep commitment to quality, expertise, and personalized service. As a family-owned business with a passion for brass instruments, Houghton Horns offers a carefully curated selection of premium instruments and accessories. Their team of skilled technicians provides top-tier repair and customization services, ensuring each instrument performs at its best. Houghton Horns is also known for its educational resources and support, helping musicians of all levels find the perfect instrument and develop their skills. With a reputation for excellence and a genuine love for music, Houghton Horns stands out as a trusted partner for brass players worldwide.

Sign up for a Free Virtual Instrument Consultation

WARNING: Brass instruments and their accessories can expose you to chemicals including Lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm, and Nickel, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to:

www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

Most new instruments and accessories over $75 are eligible for free shipping to the continental US.

Thein instruments, tubas, and pre-owned instruments are excluded from free shipping.

Click here for our full shipping policy.

Most products sold in the United States receive a 15-day return policy that starts on the day the customer receives their order. The customer is responsible for the cost of initial and return shipping, except in the case of new French horns, trumpets, and trombones, which will receive free return shipping from 48 US states. There will be a $5 cleaning fee for each returned mouthpiece.

Some product categories are ineligible for return, which include special orders, sheet music, consumables such as lubricants or cleaning snakes, and personal items such as clothing or face masks.

Unfortunately, as of May 12, 2025, we can no longer offer returns, exchanges, or refunds to international customers due to the tariff situation. We hope to restore international returns soon.

See the policy links at the bottom of our website for more information.

Click here to request a return.

Any product labelled "Special Order" is a final sale, no refunds or exchanges. Likewise, any product that has been customized at the customer's request can no longer be returned.

Click here for more information on special orders. If you want it, we will try our best to get it to you!