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How do I care for my instrument? |
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- Flush out your instrument at least once a month with a mild, soapy solution using luke-warm water. Then rince with cold water and dry thoroughly. don't use hot water - it may damage the lacquer.
- A flexible cleaning brush should be used to clean out the slides and tubing, but make sure this is remewed twice a year to avoid breakage inside the instrument
- Use a valve cleaner to clean out the valve casing - do not use a standard flexible brush
- Use a lint-free cloth, such as cheese cloth, as a swab. This may also be used to wipe the pistons which should be very carefully and care taken to replace them in the correct sequence.
- Use only a quality tuning slide grease when lubricating the slides and a minimum amount of valve oil on the pistons. Use of inferior lubricants can affect the performance of your instrument
- When you have finished playing, loosen the vavle caps by half a turn, this avoids the trapped moisture causing corrosion in the screw threads
- Make sure the mouthpieces are cleaned thoroughly with warm water and a mouthpiece brush. Deposits in a mouthpiece or mouthpipe can be detremental to the response of your brass instrument
- Care should be taken when polishing lacquered and silver plated instruments. Harsh abrasives must be avoided at all times and only cleaning cloths are recommended.
- Try to keep your instruement in an atmosphere of even temperature and humidity and do not leave it in direct sunlight or near a radiator even in the case.
- Be careful not to leave the instrument out of the case in a place where it can be sat on or knocked by people or animals (You would be suprised how often large repairs are necessary as a result of this kind of carelessness!)
- Always use a properly fitted when transporting the instruement and make sure the latches are secureed before you pick up the case.
- Avoid standing the instrument on its bell as this can cause extensive damage and ensure you use the correct fitting stand for your instrument.
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FAQ
