Embedded Files
If you think about the mechanics of playing an instrument, it becomes easily apparent why instruments need to be cleaned regularly; Imagine what all of the sugar in your mouth can do to the metal/plastic/wood!
Woodwind instruments should be swabbed daily with a silk (not felt!) cloth. If one did not come with your instrument, you can purchase one from most music stores/websites. Mouthpieces should be scrubbed out periodically with mild soap and warm water. DO NOT PUT MOUTHPIECES OR ANY PART OF THE INSTRUMENT IN THE DISHWASHER or the CLOTHES WASHING MACHINE.
The corks on your woodwind instrument should be greased lightly about once a week or so. Some instruments (with newer corks) may need to be greased more often and this is ok. Greasing the cork ensures that it does not dry out and start to flake off.
Brass instruments should be bathed every couple months or so. This involves taking all of the slides out of the instrument and literally washing them in the bathtub (or a large sink). They should be scrubbed out with mild soap, warm water, and an instrument “snake”. Once the instrument is clean, slides should be greased and valves oiled prior to reassembly. Mouthpieces can be cleaned the same way. DO NOT PUT ANY PART OF YOUR INSTRUMENT IN THE DISHWASHER or the CLOTHES WASHING MACHINE.
The valves of a brass instrument should be oiled every few days to a week. This ensures that they move smoothly through the valve casing. Caution: too much oil can actually slow valves down so use sparingly!
*NOTE: The greases and oils used to maintain instruments are specially designed to work with the properties of the materials used to make them. Although it may seem tempting to use other household products in a pinch, it may cause significant and even irreparable damage to your instrument! Extra oil, grease, and other cleaning supplies are available in the band room.
VIDEOS
VIDEOS
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse