Instruments

Instruments: Histories, Fingerings, and More

No gum or soft drinks before playing. Sugar mixed with saliva builds up on the keys/pads and causes them to stick, making it difficult to play the instrument.
Pitch is affected by temperature. Be sure to warm up your instrument before playing by blowing air through it.
Do not store the reed on the mouthpiece; store in a reed holder. Reeds can cement themselves to your mouthpiece and collect many germs. As soon as the reed cracks, chips, or softens, it is time to replace it.
Do not leave instrument in a hot/cold car, or in your trunk. Extreme temperatures can damage your instrument.
Do not set anything on top of your woodwind instrument, whether inside or outside of its case; this includes sheet music! Damage occurs easily when items are set on the instrument and the case is closed. The keys are often bent this way.
Make sure the case is closed securely. Check all hinges, latches, and handles to ensure they are securely fastened