Instrument Instructions

Daily Care:

1. When removing instruments from its case never pick it up by its keys. Remove it by the ends where there are no keys.

2. Put the instrument together with a slow back-and-forth twisting motion, never push or pull the instrument when assembling or disassembling this can cause bents at the joints.

3. Each time the instrument is together a small amount of debris will build-up on the tenons (this is normal), however, this can make it difficult to assemble. Always wipe the tenons (joints) with a soft cloth before assembling.

4. The use of lubricants on the tenons is not recommended - this can cause damage over time. The only exception to this rule is on some piccolos and wood flutes that have cork joints. Apply a small amount of cork grease to these joints, as needed, to aid in assembly.

5. After playing, use a cleaning rod with an absorbent cloth to swab out the inside of all parts to remove moisture. Carefully wipe off the outside of the instrument to remove oils or perspiration.

6. Always store the instrument in its case when not in use, this helps prevent damage and aids in keeping the instrument from tarnishing. Do not place anything in the case that can press on the instrument, this can bend keys.

Monthly Care:

Check all screws and pivots to see if they are coming loose. If they are, take the instrument to the Band Director to have them adjusted.

Yearly Care:

It is recommended that the instrument be checked and adjusted, if needed, by a repair shop. The shop may find adjustments or worn pads that are affecting the optimal performance of the instrument.

Daily Care:

1. Valves on brass instruments need to be lubricated on a regular basis. To do this: 

(a) Unscrew the valve cap and pull the valve out about half way. 

(b) Apply a drop of valve oil to the wide part of the valve.  

(c) Push the valve back into position making sure that it is lined up correctly. 

Note: The valve has a guide that keeps it in place. To check for correct alignment gently try to turn the valve. If it doesn't turn it is lined up. If it turns, keep turning the valve till a slight "click" is heard and the valve stops turning.

2. Great care is needed when handling a trombone. The smallest bump or dent in the slide can cause problems with its proper movement. Due to the precision needed in adjustment of the slide, repairs are time consuming and costly!

3. The slide needs to be lubricated on a regular basis. Apply a small amount of slide oil or cream to the boot area of the slide as needed. The boot is at the very end of the slide, so be careful not to allow the slide to slip off the trombone.

4. Occasionally a mouthpiece will become stuck in the horn. If this happens don't try force to remove it - this can cause major damage to the instrument. Take it to a repair shop or music store to have it removed. Most shops do not charge for this service.

5. After playing, make sure to remove any excess moisture from the inside of the instrument by opening the water keys and blowing through the instrument. Carefully wipe off the outside of the instrument to remove oils or perspiration.

6. Always store the instrument in its case when not in use, this helps prevent damage and aids in keeping the instrument clean. Do not place books or folders in the case, this can bend slides and cause valve problems.

Monthly Care:

1. Check all slides to see that they move freely and lubricate them with slide grease if needed.

2. The inside of your instrument needs to be cleaned regularly. This may not be needed every month but should be done at least every 3 months. 

Yearly Care:

If the instrument is cleaned on a regular basis,  additional yearly care may not be needed, however, repair shops have the ability to chemically clean the instrument which is a more thorough cleaning than can be done at home.

Battery:

• Tuning: While percussion staff will take care of tuning the snares and basses, it is important that all members understand how to perform basic repairs on the drums such as replacing broken heads, muffling basses (primarily for the Indoor season), and recognizing a broken or severely damaged drumhead. Cracks in any drumhead indicate the need for a replacement drumhead. Dents in most drumheads are normal, but a significant amount of damage on tenor or bass drumheads or any denting of a snare drumhead require replacement. Any student playing snare or tenors should come to every rehearsal and performance with a high-tension drum key.

• Drumsticks/Mallets: Each drum will have the appropriate mallets/drumsticks in the case at the beginning of the season. All students should receive two pairs of drumsticks or mallets at the start of the season. These should be taped with white stick-tape (electrical tape) for uniformity and to extend the life of the sticks and mallets. It's important to make sure the sticks are cleanly taped before every rehearsal block and every show. If the stick tape is not badly damaged, it does not need to be replaced.

Front Ensemble:

There isn't much to worry about in terms of front ensemble instrument care, at least from the student side. The primary responsibilities of members of the front ensemble it to safely handle mallet instruments (keeping them covered before and after use) and electronic equipment.