Keeping your instrument in good condition can help maintain its tone, stability, and its market value. Springfield students will use these instruments for years to come!
Never use alcohol, cleaning solvents, or any other liquids to clean your instrument; they can strip the varnish. Even water damages your instrument. If you are cleaning the instrument, you do not need to use anything but a soft dry cloth.
HOW TO CLEAN AND WIPE ROSIN OFF OF THE INSTRUMENT AND STRINGS:
The white dust on the instrument after playing is called rosin dust. Any rosin left on the strings or over the body of your instrument can cling to the instrument and cause it to be sticky/dirty. Use a lint-free, soft cloth to wipe off the rosin dust to clean your instrument. Many music stores sell inexpensive cloth or instrument care kit that is ideal for cleaning your instrument.
STORING YOUR INSTRUMENT:
When storing your instrument, the case should be face-up, or on its side. Never let your instrument rest on the bridge, even when it’s inside the case; the pressure combined with the high tension of the strings can cause the wood to weaken, crack, and break.
GENERAL GUIDELINES:
- Never use glue to mend any parts of your instrument.
- Do not tune the instrument at home - beginners have not learned how to properly tune their instrument. Improper tuning leads to broken strings.
- Do not leave the instrument in a car overnight. Extreme temperatures cause the wood to crack and the seams of the instrument to pull apart.
As a general rule, if you are not sure of something with your instrument, consult Ms. Cullen to avoid making mistakes and prevent damaging your instrument and bow.