Responsive - Exceptional ease of playing in all registers. 

Resonant- Powerful projection, warmth and brilliance. 

Refined- Balanced, ergonomic with effortless valve and slide action.

Reminiscent- All the character and color of classic instruments (without the quirks!)

Built with uncompromising care and craft by Steve Shires, one of the world’s foremost brass instrument creators.

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Amanda Collins

After playing a Rauch for several years, I was ready to move to something that would support my multifaceted career. I wanted a horn that would fit any kind of gig, whether it be teaching at MU, playing with my quintets, touring, orchestra, soloing, etc. I tried several popular custom horns, but found Stephens Custom Horns to be my match. Steve Shires is an artist.... I told him I wanted the easy of playing from my vintage Yamaha 867 and power of my Rauch and he delivered. Steve didn’t just build a horn, he built MY horn. Excellent intonation, tone and ease of playing in all registers, heroic sound, and above and beyond customer service. I couldn’t have asked for a better build experience or final product- cheers to my friend, Steve Shires and his incredible horns!
— Amanda Collins, Assistant Professor of Horn, University of Missouri
 


Greg Spiridopoulos with Stephens trombone

Greg Spiridopoulos

My first trombone built by Steve was made in 1998, and it was the best trombone I had ever played, until now. It’s hard to believe he could outdo himself, but my new Stephens trombone is even better than anything he previously built for me. The response, sound, and craftsmanship is incredible—I couldn’t be more happy.
— Greg Spiridopoulos, Professor of Trombone University of Massachusetts Amherst
 


Shelagh Abate in the pit of “Frozen” on Broadway

Shelagh Abate in the pit of “Frozen” on Broadway

I could not be happier with my Stephens. I received it late one afternoon and played it at work that same night — it was that easy to play. Responsive and resonant, Steve Shires has struck the perfect balance between a classic Geyer-style sound on a modern instrument made with incomparable skill and craftsmanship.
— Shelagh Abate, New York
 


Jon Carroll

I’ve been playing my Stephens Custom horn since 2020 and it has been the first horn I’ve felt like I could show up to any job and blend in. Whether it was a Broadway Pit, a C Street Brass show, or a orchestral setting the Stephens Horn felt at home. Steve’s ability to create an instrument with such nuanced colors and tone is incredible.

In addition to his craftsmanship Steve’s customer service and care for folks playing his instruments is second to none. Any issue or question he can help! Thank you so much Steve!!!
— Jon Carroll, C Street Brass, Pittsburgh and Broadway freelance