Baritone Euphonium & Tuba
We hope you enjoy your instrument. Please take the time to read the information below in order to keep the instrument in its best condition.
Caring for your instrument
After Each Use
Use a 'lacquer finish polishing cloth' or a household duster to wipe off fingermarks. Do not use any type of cleaning solution and do not use any harsh or abrasive cleaning materials as this may damage the finish. Remove the mouthpiece and put it in the appropriate compartment to avoid it damaging the instrument during transit. Should you find the mouthpiece is stuck, do not attempt to force it apart! Take it to your teacher who will have a special tool to remove it easily.
Periodic Maintenance
You can use a flexible cleaning brush to thoroughly clean out the slides and tubing. Use the brush carefully and replace it regularly to avoid the possibility of it breaking whilst inside the instrument. Unless you clean the inside of your instrument, a coating of saliva and dirt will form which will greatly interfere with its playing qualities. If it is not cleaned for long periods corrosion of the brass can occur.
Always clean the mouthpiece thoroughly with warm water. An accumulation of deposits in either mouthpiece or mouthpipe can have a very adverse effect on the performance of the instrument. Once cleaned, gently place the mouthpiece back into the receiver and twist lightly to seat it properly. Do not force the mouthpiece by hitting it with the palm of your hand as this can cause the mouthpiece to become stuck or 'frozen'. An easy twisting motion is all that is needed to ensure a firm fit.
Lubricating
Apply a few drops of valve oil to the inner casing of the valves. Rotate them to allow for the oil to cover both the inner valve and it's casing (make sure the valve guide is lined up with the valve guide groove inside the valve casing). The tuning slide should be greased with a little slide grease. Use a good quality slide grease such as Holton Electric Oil or 'Blue Juice'.
Tips
Try to avoid dramatic changes of temperature and humidity and never leave the instrument in direct sunlight or near a radiator (even when it is inside the case).
Cleaning brushes, and complete cleaning kits are available from local music shops / online.
Tuning
If you need advice about tuning, there are a wealth of tutorials available on Youtube which will show you what to do whilst also providing the relevant tuning notes for your instrument.
