Trumpet, Baritone, Euphonium and Tuba Maintenance Guide, provided by Roberson’s Music in Fredericksburg, Virginia

DAILY MAINTENANCE

VALVES

Valves (pistons) should be oiled each time the instrument is played.

TRUMPET LEADPIPE

Swab the leadpipe (mouthpiece receiver tube) with  a Leadpipe Swab immediately after playing.

MOUTHPIECE

The mouthpiece should be cleaned using warm water and Softsoap. A specially designed Mouthpiece Brush should be used to scrub any foreign matter from inside the shank (the part that fits in the instrument). A quarter twist is all that is necessary to secure the mouthpiece in the instrument.

Should your mouthpiece become stuck, DO NOT attempt to remove it with pliers—bring the instrument in to Roberson’s Music. Our technicians have the equipment and expertise to remove the mouthpiece without damaging it or the instrument.

LACQUER

The lacquer finish of the instrument should be cleaned with a specially treated lacquer polishing cloth each time after playing to remove dirt and hand acids.

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE

BORE

To prevent Red Rot*, the bore, or inside of the horn, should be cleaned (bathed) at least once a month with a specially designed “Snake” cleaning brush. Carefully remove all slides and pistons and run the brush through all the tubing. This removes any foreign matter and sanitizes the instrument when used with lukewarm water and a mild liquid detergent. Rinse the parts thoroughly, allow them to air dry, apply slide grease, and carefully reassemble the instrument. Wipe pistons with a lint free cloth (No Brushes) and very carefully replace them exactly as they were.

*Red Rot is a chemical corrosion that takes place on the inside of brasswind instrument tubing, which, if left untreated, will eventually eat through the brass tubing causing air leaks and finish damage.

SLIDES

The slides should be lubricated with grease made only for this purpose. Apply monthly to keep the slides moving freely.

WATER KEYS

Check the water keys or “spit valves” for leaks. Leaks here can cause the entire horn to respond poorly. Roberson’s technicians can replace leaky water key corks, usually while you wait.

MAINTENANCE ITEMS YOU SHOULD HAVE

Valve Oil, Tuning Slide Grease, Mouthpipe Swab, Mouthpiece Brush, “Snake” Cleaner, Polishing Cloth and Valve Cover (optional), all of which are available and Roberson’s Music in Fredericksburg, Virginia.