Repairing Instruments

The French Music Company will be visiting Blanchard every Wednesday to maintain instruments rented through this company. If an instrument you are renting from French music needs repair, here is what you should do:

• If the instrument has a major problem and a loaner will be needed, call the French Music Company 508-366-5994 in advance to request a loaner.
• Bring the instrument to the music room on Wednesday morning before school starts and place it behind the music teacher’s desk. Make sure your child’s name is on the instrument and that you tape a note to the case specifying the problem.
• If the visitor from the French Music Company cannot repair the instrument without taking it to the shop, he/she will leave a loaner.
• If you are renting from another music source, please get a loaner if your child’s instrument is broken. There is nothing more detrimental to progress than a couple of weeks without an instrument.

Caring for an Instrument

Instruments should always be kept clean and in good repair. Here are some general guidelines:

FLUTES AND OBOES: Swab out instrument after every use with a soft cloth and wipe off fingerprints.

SAXES AND CLARINETS: Swab out instruments after each use with a soft cloth. Wash mouthpieces with soapy water at least once per week (don’t get corks wet). Mouthpiece brushes are available at most music stores. Keep all corks well lubricated with cork grease.

BRASS: Wash mouthpiece with soap and water at least once per week. Mouthpiece brushes are available at most music stores. Wash out instrument at least once or twice a year with flexible “snakes.” A snake is a long, flexible spring with brushes on both ends that loops through the instrument. These are available at most music stores. Keep Vaseline on all slides so that they always work smoothly. Keep valves well oiled with valve oil only, please.

PERCUSSION: Release snares when storing the instrument. Never play your snare drum with anything other than your drumsticks.

Golden Rules for Musicians

1. Don’t leave your instrument unlocked in the case – it will fall out when you pick it up.
2. Don’t leave your instrument in a very cold place or in a very warm place (like the car).
3. Don’t let other people play your instrument – you wouldn’t let someone use your toothbrush!