Instrument Care - Band
Instrument Care
WOODWIND PLAYERS:
1. All woodwind players should wipe off fingerprints using a dry, clean cloth.
2. Use a small cleaning brush or Q-tip to remove dust and dirt between keys, rods, and tone holes
3. Apply cork grease to all cork tenons (clarinets, bass clarinets, saxophones only)
4. Clean your mouthpiece with a mouthpiece brush or old toothbrush and COLD soapy water (clarinets, bass clarinets, and saxophones only)
5. Remove damaged reeds from your case and re-stock for the next grading period
BRASS PLAYERS:
1. Completely disassemble your instrument (valves, tubing, slides, etc.) making sure to place all parts in a safe place and such that you will remember how to reassemble your instrument later
2. Rinse the body of your instrument and all slides with COLD water in the bathtub
3. Use a snake to gently scrub the inside of the body and all slides and tubing
4. Rinse again with COLD water
5. Dry the outside of your instrument with a clean, dry cloth to avoid water spots
6. Oil and lubricate the slides and valves
7. Reassemble your instrument
8. RINSE OUT YOUR BATHTUB!!!
9. Clean your mouthpiece with a mouthpiece brush or old toothbrush and COLD soapy water
PERCUSSION PLAYERS:
1. Dust your bell set and snare drum with a dry, clean cloth
2. Check mallets and snare sticks for damaged wood or mallet heads and replace if necessary
Flute/Piccolo Care and Maintenance
Assembly
Keep the head joint tenon and bottom tenon clean so that the head and foot joints will fit on the body of the flute easily. Having to force them may result in the bending of keys. Holding the body of the flute near the receiver, insert the head joint into the flute body using a slow back and forth twisting motion. Align the embouchure hole with the top keys on the body. Grip the foot joint firmly in the right hand closing the keys. With the left hand holding the body close to the bottom tenon, twist the foot joint onto the tenon and align the rod of the foot joint with the center of the keys on the bottom of the flute. Note: Never grease flute tenons. Tenons that are hard to insert need cleaning or professional alignment.
Daily Cleaning
The inside of the flute should be cleaned after playing. A small soft rag (about the size of a handkerchief) attached to the end of the tuning rod should be used to clean the inside of the body, foot, and head joints. Additional protection for the pads may be had by the purchase of a pad saver. The pad saver is not a cleaning device, but is placed inside the body of the flute when not in use to absorb moisture and keep it from getting to the pads. Wipe the outside of the instrument with the cloth to remove fingerprints. Note: Chewing gum, soft drinks, and other foods containing sugar are very harmful to flute pads. Avoid these things whenever possible before playing or rinse your mouth thoroughly before playing the instrument.
Periodic Maintenance
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORY ITEMS: Cleaning brush, dusting brush, key oil, polishing cloth.
Regular maintenance of the flute will go a long way toward avoiding unnecessary repair bills. ONCE A MONTH (or as needed): Thoroughly polish the outside of the flute with a treated polishing cloth. Commercial liquid, powder or paste polishes should be avoided, as they can easily get into the mechanisms and pads of the instrument. Wiping the finger prints from the instrument after each playing will help to keep the finish from deteriorating.
EVERY 3 MONTHS: Oil all mechanisms on the flute using key oil and a needle. Before oiling, use the cleaning and dusting brushes to remove as much dust and dirt as possible from under the key mechanisms on the flute. Then put several drops of key oil into the cap of the key oil bottle or other suitable container. Starting at the top of the flute and working down, put one drop of oil into the space at the end of each key rod and between all moveable keys that share the same rod using the needle dipped into the key oil. Key rods are attached to posts, each of which has a ball shaped top. Put the oil into the slit next to each post. Work the keys gently to circulate the oil, then wipe off any excess oil from the body and keys of the flute.
NEVER:
* Run water through the flute or submerse it in water.
* Turn the screws found on the top of some of the keys--these are adjustment screws and should not be tightened or loosened by the player.
* Use materials, oils, or other products not specifically designed for use in flute maintenance.
Clarinet Care & Maintenance
Assembly
Grease tenon corks with cork grease before assembly so that they work freely. Dry, tight corks may cause bent keys or broken tenons during assembly. Grasp the upper joint with the left hand near the bottom so that fingers will depress the ring keys raising the bridge key. Grasp the lower joint near the top, but don’t depress the ring keys. Push the two joints together with a slight twisting motion and line up the upper and lower bridge keys. Grasp the lower joint near the bottom and attach the bell. Attach the barrel to the top joint in a similar manner. Remove the ligature and reed from the mouthpiece before inserting mouthpiece into the barrel.
Daily Cleaning
The inside of the clarinet should be cleaned after playing. A small soft rag (about the size of a handkerchief) should be used to clean the inside of the mouthpiece. Pull a swab through each of the other sections of the clarinet to remove moisture. Additional protection for the pads may be had by the purchase of a pad saver. The pad saver is not a cleaning device, but is placed inside the body of the clarinet when not in use to absorb moisture and keep it from getting to the pads.
Note: Chewing gum, soft drinks, and other foods containing sugar are very harmful to clarinet pads. Avoid these things whenever possible before playing or rinse your mouth thoroughly before playing the instrument.
Periodic Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the clarinet will go a long way toward avoiding unnecessary repair bills.
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORY ITEMS: Swab, cleaning/dusting brush, cork grease, key oil, polishing cloth, bore oil (for wooden clarinets only) OPTIONAL: Mouthpiece brush, pad treatment product such as “no-stick.”
ONCE A MONTH (or as needed): Thoroughly polish the keys of the clarinet with a treated polishing cloth. Commercial liquid, powder or paste polishes should be avoided, as they can easily get into the mechanisms and pads of the instrument. Remove greasy substance inside exposed tone holes with cleaning brush. Tone holes covered by keys will not accumulate this substance.
EVERY 3 MONTHS: Oil all mechanisms on the clarinet using key oil and a needle. Before oiling, use the cleaning and dusting brushes to remove as much dust and dirt as possible from under the key mechanisms on the clarinet. Then put several drops of key oil into the cap of the key oil bottle or other suitable container. Starting at the top of the clarinet and working down, put one drop of oil into the space at the end of each key rod and between all moveable keys that share the same rod using the needle dipped into the key oil. Key rods are attached to posts, each of which has a ball shaped top. Put the oil into the slit next to each post. Work the keys vigorously to circulate the oil, then wipe off any excess oil from the body and keys of the clarinet.
NEVER:
* Run water through the clarinet or submerse it in water.
* Use hot water to clean the mouthpiece.
* Use materials, oils, or other products not specifically designed for use in clarinet maintenance.
Saxophone Care & Maintenance
Assembly
Keep the tenon of the neck clean so that it will fit into the body of the saxophone without forcing. Grease the neck cork so that the mouthpiece will slide on easily. Always pick up the body of the saxophone by the bell section to avoid bending keys. Insert the neck into the receiver on the top of the saxophone body taking care not to bend the octave key located on the neck. Align the middle of the underside of the neck with the octave key mechanism which protrudes above the top of the saxophone receiver. Remove the ligature and reed from the mouthpiece before placing the mouthpiece on the neck.
Daily Cleaning
The inside of the saxophone should be cleaned after playing. A small soft rag (about the size of a handkerchief) should be used to clean the inside of the mouthpiece. Pull a swab through the body of the saxophone to remove moisture. Run a flexible neck brush through the neck. Wipe the body of the instrument with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints. Additional protection for the pads may be had by the purchase of a pad saver. The pad saver is not a cleaning device, but is placed inside the body of the saxophone when not in use to absorb moisture and keep it from getting to the pads. Wiping the finger prints from the instrument after each playing will help to keep the finish from deteriorating.
Note: Chewing gum, soft drinks, and other foods containing sugar are very harmful to saxophone pads. Avoid these things whenever possible before playing or rinse your mouth thoroughly before playing the instrument.
Periodic Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the saxophone will go a long way toward avoiding unnecessary repair bills.
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORY ITEMS: Swab, neck brush, cleaning/dusting brush, cork grease, key oil, polishing cloth, OPTIONAL: Mouthpiece brush, pad treatment product such as “no-stick.”
ONCE A MONTH (or as needed): Thoroughly polish the body and keys of the saxophone with a treated polishing cloth. Commercial liquid, powder or paste polishes should be avoided, as they can easily get into the mechanisms and pads of the instrument.
EVERY 3 MONTHS: Oil all mechanisms on the saxophone using key oil and a needle. Before oiling, use the cleaning and dusting brushes to remove as much dust and dirt as possible from under the key mechanisms on the saxophone. Then put several drops of key oil into the cap of the key oil bottle or other suitable container. Starting at the top of the saxophone and working down, put one drop of oil into the space at the end of each key rod and between all moveable keys that share the same rod using the needle dipped into the key oil. Key rods are attached to posts, each of which has a ball shaped top. Put the oil into the slit next to each post. Work the keys vigorously to circulate the oil, then wipe off any excess oil from the body and keys of the saxophone.
NEVER:
* Run water through the saxophone or submerse it in water.
* Store music books, folders, etc. inside of the saxophone case, as this can easily bend keys on the instrument.
* Use materials, oils, or other products not specifically designed for use in saxophone maintenance.
Piston Valve Brass Instrument Care & Maintenance
Assembly
Keep the mouthpiece shank clean and check regularly to see that it is perfectly round. Insert the mouthpiece into the mouthpipe and turn it slightly. Do not “pop” it in with palm of your hand, as this may make the mouthpiece impossible to remove by hand after playing. Should this occur, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE MOUTHPIECE WITH A TOOL. It must be removed with a special mouthpiece puller.
Regular Lubricating and Cleaning
Put a few drops of valve oil directly on each valve before playing. Rotate the valve while inserting it into the valve casing to distribute oil evenly on the interior of the casing. Check all slides regularly to see that they move freely. Lubricate when necessary with a commercial slide lubricant after first removing all grease and dirt from slides. Put a thin coat of lubricant on each slide tube and insert tubes one at a time, rotating them to distribute lubricant evenly. Then assemble the slide in its correct position. Always remove as much moisture as possible from the inside of the instrument after playing. Wipe the body of the instrument with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints.
Periodic Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your instrument will go a long way toward avoiding unnecessary repair bills.
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORY ITEMS: Mouthpiece brush, flexible cleaning coil, cleaning rod, tuning slide grease, valve oil, polishing cloth (lacquer finishes only.)
ONCE A WEEK (or as needed): Wash the mouthpiece in warm soapy water and clean with the mouthpiece brush. Remove the 1st valve and flush the mouthpipe tubing with clear LUKEWARM water using the cleaning rod and cloth to remove all particles and residue.
ONCE A MONTH: Remove all slides, valves and valve caps from the instrument. Place all parts in the bathtub or a large basin of LUKEWARM water and a mild detergent. After the instrument has soaked for a while, run the flexible brush though all body tubing, slides, valve portholes and valve casings. Rinse thoroughly with a solution of baking soda and water followed by a final rinse with clear water and allow to dry. Reassemble the instrument, oiling the valves and lubricating all slides. This procedure will help to prevent corrosion from condensation and saliva inside the instrument. Finally, polish the body with a treated polishing cloth--be sure that you use the appropriate type for your instrument (gold lacquer or silver plate).
NEVER:
* Use hot water to clean the instrument, as this can cause serious damage to the finish.
* Store music books, folders, etc. in the case, as this may cause damage to the instrument.
French Horn Care & Maintenance
Assembly
Keep the mouthpiece shank clean and check regularly to see that it is perfectly round. Insert the mouthpiece into the mouthpipe and turn it slightly. Do not “pop” it in with palm of your hand, as this may make the mouthpiece impossible to remove by hand after playing. Should this occur, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE MOUTHPIECE WITH A TOOL. It must be removed with a special mouthpiece puller.
Regular Lubricating and Cleaning
Remove each valve slide (while depressing valve) and squeeze a few drops of oil down each of the slide tubes so that it will reach the valve. Rotate the valve to distribute oil. Every couple of weeks a couple drops of oil should be placed on the bearing shaft (moving part in middle of valve under the valve caps) Check all slides regularly to see that they move freely. Lubricate when necessary with a commercial slide lubricant after first removing all grease and dirt from slides. When removing valve slides, always depress the valve and hold it down while removing its valve slide. Put a thin coat of lubricant on each slide tube and insert tubes one at a time, rotating them to distribute lubricant evenly. Then assemble slide in its correct position. Always remove as much moisture as possible from the inside of the instrument after playing. Wipe the body of the instrument with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints.
Periodic Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the French Horn will go a long way toward avoiding unnecessary repair bills.
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORY ITEMS: Mouthpiece brush, flexible cleaning coil, cleaning rod, slide grease, rotary valve oil, polishing cloth (lacquer finishes only.)
ONCE A WEEK (or as needed): Wash the mouthpiece in warm soapy water and clean with the mouthpiece brush. Flush the mouthpipe tubing with clear LUKEWARM water using the cleaning rod and cloth to remove all particles and residue.
EVERY TWO MONTHS: Remove all slides and valve caps from the instrument. Place all parts in the bathtub or a large basin of LUKEWARM water and a mild detergent. After the instrument has soaked for a while, run the flexible brush though all body tubing and slides. Rinse thoroughly with a solution of baking soda and water followed by a final rinse with clear water and allow to dry. Reassemble the instrument, oiling the valves and lubricating all slides. This procedure will help to prevent corrosion from condensation and saliva inside the instrument. Finally, polish the body with a treated polishing cloth--be sure to use the appropriate type for your instrument (gold lacquer or silver plate). French Horn valves should be removed about twice a year for thorough cleaning. Have your teacher or an instrument repairman show you how to disassemble and clean the valves.
NEVER:
* Use hot water to clean the instrument, as this can cause serious damage to the finish.
* Store music books, folders, etc. in the case, as this may cause damage to the instrument.
Trombone Care & Maintenance
Assembly
Keep the mouthpiece shank clean and check regularly to see that it is perfectly round. Insert the mouthpiece into the mouthpipe and turn it slightly. Do not “pop” it in with palm of your hand, as this may make the mouthpiece impossible to remove by hand after playing. Should this occur, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE MOUTHPIECE WITH A TOOL. It must be removed with a special mouthpiece puller. Always make certain that the slide is locked before removing it from the case and attaching it to the body of the trombone.
Regular Lubricating and Cleaning
Put a few drops of slide oil directly on both of the inner slide tubes before playing. An alternative to slide oil is commercial slide cream or cold cream. A very thin coating should be applied evenly, paying particular attention to the expanded section at the end of the tubes. The inner slide is then sprayed periodically with a light coating of water from a small spray bottle. Check the tuning slide regularly to see that it moves freely. Lubricate when necessary with a commercial tuning slide lubricant after first removing all grease and dirt from slides. Put a thin coat of lubricant on each slide tube and insert tubes one at a time, rotating them to distribute lubricant evenly. Then assemble the slide in its correct position. Always remove as much moisture as possible from the inside of the instrument after playing. Wipe the body of the instrument with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints.
Periodic Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the Trombone will go a long way toward avoiding unnecessary repair bills.
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORY ITEMS: Mouthpiece brush, flexible cleaning coil, tuning slide grease, slide oil or cream, polishing cloth (lacquer finishes only.)
ONCE A WEEK (or as needed): Wash the mouthpiece in warm soapy water and clean with the mouthpiece brush. Thoroughly clean the inner slide tubes and dry with a soft cloth. Re-lubricate the slide.
EVERY TWO MONTHS: Disassemble the trombone and place all parts in the bathtub or a large basin of LUKEWARM water and a mild detergent. After the instrument has soaked for a while, run the flexible brush though all body tubing and the inner and outer slides. Rinse thoroughly with a solution of baking soda and water followed by a final rinse with clear water and allow to dry. Reassemble the instrument, lubricating the hand and tuning slides. This procedure will help to prevent corrosion from condensation and saliva inside the instrument. Finally, polish the body with a treated polishing cloth (lacquered instruments only.) Silver plated instruments may be polished with silver polish as needed.
NEVER:
* Use hot water to clean the instrument, as this can cause serious damage to the finish.
* Store music books, folders, etc. in the case, as this may cause damage to the instrument.
* Attempt to remove a stuck mouthpiece using pliers, etc. Ask your band director if he/she has a mouthpiece puller.
page developed by Ms. West at http://www.scuc.txed.net/webpages/swest/index.cfm
WOODWIND PLAYERS:
1. All woodwind players should wipe off fingerprints using a dry, clean cloth.
2. Use a small cleaning brush or Q-tip to remove dust and dirt between keys, rods, and tone holes
3. Apply cork grease to all cork tenons (clarinets, bass clarinets, saxophones only)
4. Clean your mouthpiece with a mouthpiece brush or old toothbrush and COLD soapy water (clarinets, bass clarinets, and saxophones only)
5. Remove damaged reeds from your case and re-stock for the next grading period
BRASS PLAYERS:
1. Completely disassemble your instrument (valves, tubing, slides, etc.) making sure to place all parts in a safe place and such that you will remember how to reassemble your instrument later
2. Rinse the body of your instrument and all slides with COLD water in the bathtub
3. Use a snake to gently scrub the inside of the body and all slides and tubing
4. Rinse again with COLD water
5. Dry the outside of your instrument with a clean, dry cloth to avoid water spots
6. Oil and lubricate the slides and valves
7. Reassemble your instrument
8. RINSE OUT YOUR BATHTUB!!!
9. Clean your mouthpiece with a mouthpiece brush or old toothbrush and COLD soapy water
PERCUSSION PLAYERS:
1. Dust your bell set and snare drum with a dry, clean cloth
2. Check mallets and snare sticks for damaged wood or mallet heads and replace if necessary
Flute/Piccolo Care and Maintenance
Assembly
Keep the head joint tenon and bottom tenon clean so that the head and foot joints will fit on the body of the flute easily. Having to force them may result in the bending of keys. Holding the body of the flute near the receiver, insert the head joint into the flute body using a slow back and forth twisting motion. Align the embouchure hole with the top keys on the body. Grip the foot joint firmly in the right hand closing the keys. With the left hand holding the body close to the bottom tenon, twist the foot joint onto the tenon and align the rod of the foot joint with the center of the keys on the bottom of the flute. Note: Never grease flute tenons. Tenons that are hard to insert need cleaning or professional alignment.
Daily Cleaning
The inside of the flute should be cleaned after playing. A small soft rag (about the size of a handkerchief) attached to the end of the tuning rod should be used to clean the inside of the body, foot, and head joints. Additional protection for the pads may be had by the purchase of a pad saver. The pad saver is not a cleaning device, but is placed inside the body of the flute when not in use to absorb moisture and keep it from getting to the pads. Wipe the outside of the instrument with the cloth to remove fingerprints. Note: Chewing gum, soft drinks, and other foods containing sugar are very harmful to flute pads. Avoid these things whenever possible before playing or rinse your mouth thoroughly before playing the instrument.
Periodic Maintenance
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORY ITEMS: Cleaning brush, dusting brush, key oil, polishing cloth.
Regular maintenance of the flute will go a long way toward avoiding unnecessary repair bills. ONCE A MONTH (or as needed): Thoroughly polish the outside of the flute with a treated polishing cloth. Commercial liquid, powder or paste polishes should be avoided, as they can easily get into the mechanisms and pads of the instrument. Wiping the finger prints from the instrument after each playing will help to keep the finish from deteriorating.
EVERY 3 MONTHS: Oil all mechanisms on the flute using key oil and a needle. Before oiling, use the cleaning and dusting brushes to remove as much dust and dirt as possible from under the key mechanisms on the flute. Then put several drops of key oil into the cap of the key oil bottle or other suitable container. Starting at the top of the flute and working down, put one drop of oil into the space at the end of each key rod and between all moveable keys that share the same rod using the needle dipped into the key oil. Key rods are attached to posts, each of which has a ball shaped top. Put the oil into the slit next to each post. Work the keys gently to circulate the oil, then wipe off any excess oil from the body and keys of the flute.
NEVER:
* Run water through the flute or submerse it in water.
* Turn the screws found on the top of some of the keys--these are adjustment screws and should not be tightened or loosened by the player.
* Use materials, oils, or other products not specifically designed for use in flute maintenance.
Clarinet Care & Maintenance
Assembly
Grease tenon corks with cork grease before assembly so that they work freely. Dry, tight corks may cause bent keys or broken tenons during assembly. Grasp the upper joint with the left hand near the bottom so that fingers will depress the ring keys raising the bridge key. Grasp the lower joint near the top, but don’t depress the ring keys. Push the two joints together with a slight twisting motion and line up the upper and lower bridge keys. Grasp the lower joint near the bottom and attach the bell. Attach the barrel to the top joint in a similar manner. Remove the ligature and reed from the mouthpiece before inserting mouthpiece into the barrel.
Daily Cleaning
The inside of the clarinet should be cleaned after playing. A small soft rag (about the size of a handkerchief) should be used to clean the inside of the mouthpiece. Pull a swab through each of the other sections of the clarinet to remove moisture. Additional protection for the pads may be had by the purchase of a pad saver. The pad saver is not a cleaning device, but is placed inside the body of the clarinet when not in use to absorb moisture and keep it from getting to the pads.
Note: Chewing gum, soft drinks, and other foods containing sugar are very harmful to clarinet pads. Avoid these things whenever possible before playing or rinse your mouth thoroughly before playing the instrument.
Periodic Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the clarinet will go a long way toward avoiding unnecessary repair bills.
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORY ITEMS: Swab, cleaning/dusting brush, cork grease, key oil, polishing cloth, bore oil (for wooden clarinets only) OPTIONAL: Mouthpiece brush, pad treatment product such as “no-stick.”
ONCE A MONTH (or as needed): Thoroughly polish the keys of the clarinet with a treated polishing cloth. Commercial liquid, powder or paste polishes should be avoided, as they can easily get into the mechanisms and pads of the instrument. Remove greasy substance inside exposed tone holes with cleaning brush. Tone holes covered by keys will not accumulate this substance.
EVERY 3 MONTHS: Oil all mechanisms on the clarinet using key oil and a needle. Before oiling, use the cleaning and dusting brushes to remove as much dust and dirt as possible from under the key mechanisms on the clarinet. Then put several drops of key oil into the cap of the key oil bottle or other suitable container. Starting at the top of the clarinet and working down, put one drop of oil into the space at the end of each key rod and between all moveable keys that share the same rod using the needle dipped into the key oil. Key rods are attached to posts, each of which has a ball shaped top. Put the oil into the slit next to each post. Work the keys vigorously to circulate the oil, then wipe off any excess oil from the body and keys of the clarinet.
NEVER:
* Run water through the clarinet or submerse it in water.
* Use hot water to clean the mouthpiece.
* Use materials, oils, or other products not specifically designed for use in clarinet maintenance.
Saxophone Care & Maintenance
Assembly
Keep the tenon of the neck clean so that it will fit into the body of the saxophone without forcing. Grease the neck cork so that the mouthpiece will slide on easily. Always pick up the body of the saxophone by the bell section to avoid bending keys. Insert the neck into the receiver on the top of the saxophone body taking care not to bend the octave key located on the neck. Align the middle of the underside of the neck with the octave key mechanism which protrudes above the top of the saxophone receiver. Remove the ligature and reed from the mouthpiece before placing the mouthpiece on the neck.
Daily Cleaning
The inside of the saxophone should be cleaned after playing. A small soft rag (about the size of a handkerchief) should be used to clean the inside of the mouthpiece. Pull a swab through the body of the saxophone to remove moisture. Run a flexible neck brush through the neck. Wipe the body of the instrument with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints. Additional protection for the pads may be had by the purchase of a pad saver. The pad saver is not a cleaning device, but is placed inside the body of the saxophone when not in use to absorb moisture and keep it from getting to the pads. Wiping the finger prints from the instrument after each playing will help to keep the finish from deteriorating.
Note: Chewing gum, soft drinks, and other foods containing sugar are very harmful to saxophone pads. Avoid these things whenever possible before playing or rinse your mouth thoroughly before playing the instrument.
Periodic Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the saxophone will go a long way toward avoiding unnecessary repair bills.
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORY ITEMS: Swab, neck brush, cleaning/dusting brush, cork grease, key oil, polishing cloth, OPTIONAL: Mouthpiece brush, pad treatment product such as “no-stick.”
ONCE A MONTH (or as needed): Thoroughly polish the body and keys of the saxophone with a treated polishing cloth. Commercial liquid, powder or paste polishes should be avoided, as they can easily get into the mechanisms and pads of the instrument.
EVERY 3 MONTHS: Oil all mechanisms on the saxophone using key oil and a needle. Before oiling, use the cleaning and dusting brushes to remove as much dust and dirt as possible from under the key mechanisms on the saxophone. Then put several drops of key oil into the cap of the key oil bottle or other suitable container. Starting at the top of the saxophone and working down, put one drop of oil into the space at the end of each key rod and between all moveable keys that share the same rod using the needle dipped into the key oil. Key rods are attached to posts, each of which has a ball shaped top. Put the oil into the slit next to each post. Work the keys vigorously to circulate the oil, then wipe off any excess oil from the body and keys of the saxophone.
NEVER:
* Run water through the saxophone or submerse it in water.
* Store music books, folders, etc. inside of the saxophone case, as this can easily bend keys on the instrument.
* Use materials, oils, or other products not specifically designed for use in saxophone maintenance.
Piston Valve Brass Instrument Care & Maintenance
Assembly
Keep the mouthpiece shank clean and check regularly to see that it is perfectly round. Insert the mouthpiece into the mouthpipe and turn it slightly. Do not “pop” it in with palm of your hand, as this may make the mouthpiece impossible to remove by hand after playing. Should this occur, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE MOUTHPIECE WITH A TOOL. It must be removed with a special mouthpiece puller.
Regular Lubricating and Cleaning
Put a few drops of valve oil directly on each valve before playing. Rotate the valve while inserting it into the valve casing to distribute oil evenly on the interior of the casing. Check all slides regularly to see that they move freely. Lubricate when necessary with a commercial slide lubricant after first removing all grease and dirt from slides. Put a thin coat of lubricant on each slide tube and insert tubes one at a time, rotating them to distribute lubricant evenly. Then assemble the slide in its correct position. Always remove as much moisture as possible from the inside of the instrument after playing. Wipe the body of the instrument with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints.
Periodic Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your instrument will go a long way toward avoiding unnecessary repair bills.
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORY ITEMS: Mouthpiece brush, flexible cleaning coil, cleaning rod, tuning slide grease, valve oil, polishing cloth (lacquer finishes only.)
ONCE A WEEK (or as needed): Wash the mouthpiece in warm soapy water and clean with the mouthpiece brush. Remove the 1st valve and flush the mouthpipe tubing with clear LUKEWARM water using the cleaning rod and cloth to remove all particles and residue.
ONCE A MONTH: Remove all slides, valves and valve caps from the instrument. Place all parts in the bathtub or a large basin of LUKEWARM water and a mild detergent. After the instrument has soaked for a while, run the flexible brush though all body tubing, slides, valve portholes and valve casings. Rinse thoroughly with a solution of baking soda and water followed by a final rinse with clear water and allow to dry. Reassemble the instrument, oiling the valves and lubricating all slides. This procedure will help to prevent corrosion from condensation and saliva inside the instrument. Finally, polish the body with a treated polishing cloth--be sure that you use the appropriate type for your instrument (gold lacquer or silver plate).
NEVER:
* Use hot water to clean the instrument, as this can cause serious damage to the finish.
* Store music books, folders, etc. in the case, as this may cause damage to the instrument.
French Horn Care & Maintenance
Assembly
Keep the mouthpiece shank clean and check regularly to see that it is perfectly round. Insert the mouthpiece into the mouthpipe and turn it slightly. Do not “pop” it in with palm of your hand, as this may make the mouthpiece impossible to remove by hand after playing. Should this occur, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE MOUTHPIECE WITH A TOOL. It must be removed with a special mouthpiece puller.
Regular Lubricating and Cleaning
Remove each valve slide (while depressing valve) and squeeze a few drops of oil down each of the slide tubes so that it will reach the valve. Rotate the valve to distribute oil. Every couple of weeks a couple drops of oil should be placed on the bearing shaft (moving part in middle of valve under the valve caps) Check all slides regularly to see that they move freely. Lubricate when necessary with a commercial slide lubricant after first removing all grease and dirt from slides. When removing valve slides, always depress the valve and hold it down while removing its valve slide. Put a thin coat of lubricant on each slide tube and insert tubes one at a time, rotating them to distribute lubricant evenly. Then assemble slide in its correct position. Always remove as much moisture as possible from the inside of the instrument after playing. Wipe the body of the instrument with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints.
Periodic Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the French Horn will go a long way toward avoiding unnecessary repair bills.
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORY ITEMS: Mouthpiece brush, flexible cleaning coil, cleaning rod, slide grease, rotary valve oil, polishing cloth (lacquer finishes only.)
ONCE A WEEK (or as needed): Wash the mouthpiece in warm soapy water and clean with the mouthpiece brush. Flush the mouthpipe tubing with clear LUKEWARM water using the cleaning rod and cloth to remove all particles and residue.
EVERY TWO MONTHS: Remove all slides and valve caps from the instrument. Place all parts in the bathtub or a large basin of LUKEWARM water and a mild detergent. After the instrument has soaked for a while, run the flexible brush though all body tubing and slides. Rinse thoroughly with a solution of baking soda and water followed by a final rinse with clear water and allow to dry. Reassemble the instrument, oiling the valves and lubricating all slides. This procedure will help to prevent corrosion from condensation and saliva inside the instrument. Finally, polish the body with a treated polishing cloth--be sure to use the appropriate type for your instrument (gold lacquer or silver plate). French Horn valves should be removed about twice a year for thorough cleaning. Have your teacher or an instrument repairman show you how to disassemble and clean the valves.
NEVER:
* Use hot water to clean the instrument, as this can cause serious damage to the finish.
* Store music books, folders, etc. in the case, as this may cause damage to the instrument.
Trombone Care & Maintenance
Assembly
Keep the mouthpiece shank clean and check regularly to see that it is perfectly round. Insert the mouthpiece into the mouthpipe and turn it slightly. Do not “pop” it in with palm of your hand, as this may make the mouthpiece impossible to remove by hand after playing. Should this occur, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE MOUTHPIECE WITH A TOOL. It must be removed with a special mouthpiece puller. Always make certain that the slide is locked before removing it from the case and attaching it to the body of the trombone.
Regular Lubricating and Cleaning
Put a few drops of slide oil directly on both of the inner slide tubes before playing. An alternative to slide oil is commercial slide cream or cold cream. A very thin coating should be applied evenly, paying particular attention to the expanded section at the end of the tubes. The inner slide is then sprayed periodically with a light coating of water from a small spray bottle. Check the tuning slide regularly to see that it moves freely. Lubricate when necessary with a commercial tuning slide lubricant after first removing all grease and dirt from slides. Put a thin coat of lubricant on each slide tube and insert tubes one at a time, rotating them to distribute lubricant evenly. Then assemble the slide in its correct position. Always remove as much moisture as possible from the inside of the instrument after playing. Wipe the body of the instrument with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints.
Periodic Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the Trombone will go a long way toward avoiding unnecessary repair bills.
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORY ITEMS: Mouthpiece brush, flexible cleaning coil, tuning slide grease, slide oil or cream, polishing cloth (lacquer finishes only.)
ONCE A WEEK (or as needed): Wash the mouthpiece in warm soapy water and clean with the mouthpiece brush. Thoroughly clean the inner slide tubes and dry with a soft cloth. Re-lubricate the slide.
EVERY TWO MONTHS: Disassemble the trombone and place all parts in the bathtub or a large basin of LUKEWARM water and a mild detergent. After the instrument has soaked for a while, run the flexible brush though all body tubing and the inner and outer slides. Rinse thoroughly with a solution of baking soda and water followed by a final rinse with clear water and allow to dry. Reassemble the instrument, lubricating the hand and tuning slides. This procedure will help to prevent corrosion from condensation and saliva inside the instrument. Finally, polish the body with a treated polishing cloth (lacquered instruments only.) Silver plated instruments may be polished with silver polish as needed.
NEVER:
* Use hot water to clean the instrument, as this can cause serious damage to the finish.
* Store music books, folders, etc. in the case, as this may cause damage to the instrument.
* Attempt to remove a stuck mouthpiece using pliers, etc. Ask your band director if he/she has a mouthpiece puller.
page developed by Ms. West at http://www.scuc.txed.net/webpages/swest/index.cfm