Instrument Care

Assembling Your Instrument

Apply cork grease to the instrument thinly to the joint corks to make the assembly easier.
Hold the upper joint by the tenon (the wider end), and carefully connect it to the lower joint by aligning the bridge key and gently twisting the two pieces together. Be sure not to apply excessive force, and handle the keys and tone holes delicately.
Connect the bell to the bottom of the lower joint in the same manner, aligning the bridge key and twisting to secure it.
Insert the mouthpiece into the assembled instrument.
For clarinets only, fix the ligature and a dampened reed on the mouthpiece. take care not to damage the mouthpiece top or the reed with the ligature.

Cork grease needs to be applied each time when the assembly is difficult
With a new instrument, always carefully inspect the assembled clarinet / oboe for any visible issues or damage. If you notice anything unusual, consult a qualified instrument technician for further assessment.
Always handle the instrument by its keys during assembly and disassembly. Putting excessive pressure on the rods that run the length of the instrument can cause them to bend and will prevent the instrument from working properly.
Ensure tenons and sockets are clean before putting the clarinet together
If you're unsure about any step, consult your clarinet's user manual or seek guidance from a music teacher or instrument technician.

Swab the inside of the instrument with a cleaning cloth after each use to prevent mold and bacteria growth. (see swabbing below for more details)
Wipe keys and body with a dry cloth after playing to remove moisture, oils, and fingerprints.

Mouthpiece Maintenance:

Reed Maintenance:

Keep the instrument in its case when not in use to protect it from dust and damage.
Avoid exposing instruments to extreme temperatures. (e.g., keep it away from direct sunlight and never leave it in a hot car).
Always use the case provided for the instrument. Too tight or too loose a case may cause bending of keys.
Under no circumstances use oil, solvents or anticorrosive products.

Schedule regular annual check-ups with a professional technician to identify and address any issues.

For new wooden instruments, do not play it continuously for more than 30 minutes daily for the first 20 sessions. After 20, increase the total play time by 15 minutes for every 20 sessions.
Avoid any rapid change of temperature and humidity. For instance, do not leave the instrument in the blazing sun, outdoor in winter, or near an air conditioner / heater.
Before putting the instrument in the case, always dry the bore completely with your swab.
No bore oil, etc. needs to be used to prevent cracks in a new instrument. Observing the precautions in 1. and 2. is sufficient.

Note: Should any wooden instrument crack, it will never affect the intonation and tone quality if the instrument is properly repaired.

Whilst playing the instrument, use the swab frequently. If water collects in the tone hole, bubbling and welling of pads with consequent leakage will badly affect the performance. Dry pads with cigarette paper if water does enter the keys.

Note: For clarinets, always be careful while swabbing to not catch the vent tube protruding inwardly in the upper part of the top joint.

When the swab gets dirty and / or frayed, replace it with a new one. If you use a suboptimal swab, dust and other particles may collect in the tone holes.
Do not put a wet swab in the case with the instrument. The wet swab may cause rust on the springs and the discoloration of the keywork.