Caring for a Band Instrument

When you own or rent a band instrument, it is important to know how to properly care for it. Whether you are the player or your child, there are things that have to be done for the instrument to be in working shape. 

Think of the instrument as if it where a car.A car has to have the oil changed, a tune up, the body washed, and the tires rotated. It is the same thing with an instrument. They have to be tuned up, new oil applied, pads changed, screws tightened or replaced, and cleaned. Instruments have to have a little bit of time put into them along with some love.

Instruments that are properly taken care of are going to sound the best. Players are more likely to stick with playing if the instrument is cared for and working the right way. When a problem arises, don’t wait to get it fixed. Just like a car, the longer you wait to fix the problem the worse it is going to be and more expensive it will become.

So to help keep instruments working properly, we asked our repair department for some general tips. Here is what they had to say.

• Don’t leave your instrument in a hot.  The intense temperature alters the instrument.
• Make sure the case is closed and latched before moving the case.
• It is not recommended to store music in the instruments case because it can cause the keys to bend.
• Don’t chew gum or drink soda while playing. Sugar builds up on the inside and makes keys and parts stick.
• Wipe the spit out and clean the instrument after playing.
• Don’t use metal polish to shine the instrument because it ruins the lacquer.
• Lots of problems can be avoided if instruments are brought in for a cleaning and tune up. 

Owning an instrument can be a process but if loved and properly cared for, they will bring fun and entertainment into life.

If you notice a problem with your or your child’s instrument, come in and see our repair department. They are knowledgeable and will take care of any problem. And watch for more posts to come about caring of specific instruments.