Spring Has Sprung....almost.

As the seasons change, your child may notice that his/her instrument isn't playing as it should.  Drastic changes in humidity and temperature can contribute to several instrument issues:  Leaky pads on woodwinds, cracking reeds, sticky brass valves, gurgling trumpets and loose screws are just the beginning.

To protect your child's instrument against these potential problems, please encourage them to take the following simple steps:

• Clean the instrument after EVERY use.  (This includes emptying the spit valve for brass.)
• Keep all reeds in the protective case and allow them to completely dry between  uses.
• Never leave any instrument where it can be exposed to the elements. Even though the car or sun-room may seem like a protected space, the temperature can fluctuate drastically.
• Handle with Care.  Instruments are delicate and this can be forgotten as students become more comfortable using them.  Dropping an instrument just one time can lead to serious damage.
• Instruments should be taken to a repair shop annually for a check-up.

If you or your child suspect that there may be a serious problem with his/her instrument, the best course of action is to take it in to a reputable repair shop.  I can refer you to a few in the area.  I am capable of basic repairs like sticky valves and loose screws/pins and am always happy to take a look and see if professional attention is needed.  

Plan Ahead...the Spring Concert is coming up on May 15th!  Repair shops can be quite busy during the concert season and it may take longer than expected for routine maintenance or repairs.