Instrument Care

Do -

• Pack up your instrument after you practice so that it stays safe.

• Put your case on a sturdy surface or the floor and make sure the top side is up before you open it.

• Remove your shoulder rest (violins/violas) or fasten your endpin in safely (cello/bass) before you pack up.

• Ask your teacher or take your instrument to the shop if it breaks. Don’t try to fix it at home!

Don’t -

• Let other people play with your instrument.

• Leave your instrument or bow on the floor, whether you’re in class or at home. Someone might step on it. Better safe than sorry!

• Leave it in the car when it’s too cold or hot outside. A good rule of thumb is if it’s too hot or cold for a baby to stay in the car, it’s too hot/cold for the instrument as well!

For more information, see this article from a San Francisco bay area publication: Taking Care of a String Instrument