Common Instrument Problems

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Common Instrument Problems

• By Keren Michael Barr
• North Georgia Band Instrument Service

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Woodwinds

• Problem Key is not returning to its resting
  position (either open or closed)
• Solution Check to ensure that the spring is in
  its appropriate cradle on the key
• Use a spring hook to manipulate springs in to
  position

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Woodwinds

• Problem Saxophone or bass clarinet neck is too
  loose
• Solution Check the neck screw it should enter
  the socket from the side with no threads
• Bundy and Bundy II, some European horns enter
  from the players left, others from the right

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Woodwinds

• Problem Instrument is squeaking, out of tune, or
  wont play properly and there are no signs of
  damage to pads or key work
• Solution Check that all joints match
• If a joint or neck is loose air can leak from the
  area causing the entire instrument to not play
  properly
• Check the reed, mouthpiece or ligature for
  cracks, chips and other damage

5
Woodwinds

• Problem Saxophone will not play in low register
• Solution Check octave key adjustment

6
Brass

• Problem Air will not flow freely through the
  horn
• Solution Check that all valves are aligned
  properly
• Remove valves, insert 3rd, blow, insert 2nd,
  blow, insert 1st, blow
• Check condition of valve guide

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Brass

• Problem Air will not flow freely through Yamaha
  euphonium or piston tuba
• Solution Two holes on top of valve
• Small hole is for for guide tab
• Larger hole is a vent
• Also applies to Jupiter tubas and euphoniums

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Brass

• Problem Trumpet valve has been disassembled
• Solution Reassemble in this order
• Insert the valve guide through the side of the
  spring barrel
• Insert the spring ON TOP of the valve guide
• Screw on the valve stem
• Place the stem felt over the stem
• Place the top cap over the stem felt
• Screw on the finger button
• Consult one of the other valve to check for the
  proper orientation of the guides

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Brass

• Problem Stuck mouthpiece
• Solution Use a Bobcat mouthpiece puller
• VERY user-friendly
• Will remove 98 of stuck mouthpieces
• Very safe when used properly

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Brass
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Brass

• Problem Waterkey is leaking
• Solution Check condition of waterkey assembly
• Check the waterkey cork and replace if necessary
• Check for proper spring tension
• Ensure that the screw is properly tightened

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Brass

• Problem Horn lever string is broken
• Solution Restring according to diagram
• Take care to properly loop strings under and over