Band and orchestra instrument repair and cleaning are part of the necessary maintenance routine to keep your instrument in peak playing condition. With over 50 years in the business, the knowledgeable staff at Hurst Music in Lexington, KY, can assist you with making sure your instrument is always in professional playing condition.

Follow these basic helpful tips for caring for your band instrument:

• Exterior Cleaning: All instruments should have attention given to their exterior to keep them free of dust, dirt, and fingerprints. Woodwind, brass, and string instruments should be wiped down with a clean, soft cloth that won’t scratch the finish. Only use a polish or cleaner if it’s from a music store, made specifically for cleaning an instrument, and test it in an inconspicuous spot first. Additionally, instruments should be disassembled for easier cleaning of parts, if possible. Mouthpieces for clarinets, saxophones and brass instruments can be cleaned in warm, soapy water, then dried completely before storing.
• Interior Cleaning: For woodwind and brass instruments, cleaning out spit valves and doing an internal cleaning with a flexible cleaning brush or dry swab will remove moisture to maintain the functionality and sound of your instrument.
• Band and Orchestra Instrument Repair: Attending to any damage, such as broken strings, non-functioning valves, or broken parts should be handled immediately to prevent further issues. Never attempt a repair yourself, however. Regular maintenance and cleaning from a professional repair technician is recommended. A good rule of thumb is to have your instrument inspected by a professional once a year, like you would with a tune-up for a car.

With these basic tips for instrument care, you’ll have a solid start at keeping things well maintained. For questions about more involved care, including professional cleaning or band and orchestra instrument repairs, contact the seasoned specialists at Hurst Music. Call (859) 335-0500 or visit them online for more information about their services.