Instrument Care and Maintenance
Daily
Don't chew gum, eat, or drink
softdrinks (soda, juice, etc) just before or while you play.
Food particles, sugar and other foreign materials will
eventually affect playing qualities. If you do eat just before
playing, rinse your mouth thoroughly with WATER.
Wipe the keys and body with a
slightly damp cloth immediately after playing.
Monthly
To prevent pads sticking, place
one thickness of a clean handkerchief or a thin cloth under the
pad, close the key with gentle pressure, and, while holding the
key down, pull the cloth back and forth a few times. A small
packet of Sight Savers (eyeglass cleaners) is also fine for this
purpose. All of the pads should be cleaned in this manner
monthly.
FUN FACT: Old school jazzers use
a dollar bill (or other denomination) in a jam on the bandstand.
Every 6 months
A tiny drop of oil on a toothpick
should be applied to the friction points. Wipe off any excess
immediately to prevent oil from touching the pads.
Yearly
Take instrument to a qualified
repair technician for adjustments and pad inspection.
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