Caring for your Low Brass instrument

While holding your instrument with the left hand, place the mouthpiece into the mouthpiece receiver and gently twist it in. Don’t hit it with your hand, as it might become stuck. If the mouthpiece does get stuck in your trumpet, take it to your band director or the repair shop. You may damage your instrument if you try to remove it yourself.

Oil your valves regularly. Unscrew the cap from the 1st valve casing and remove the valve. Wipe it clean with a soft, lint-free cloth. Put a few drops of valve oil on the valve and return it to the casing. Turn it inside the casing until you hear a click, then screw the cap back on. Do this one valve at a time so they don’t get mixed up!

Grease the slides regularly. Pull them out (one at a time), wipe them clean with a soft, lint-free cloth, put a small amount of slide grease on them and insert back into your trumpet. Be careful not to bend the edges of the tubing. If air escapes the instrument through the slides, it will be difficult - if not impossible - to play.

Since your fingerprints contain acids that will destroy your instrument's finish, be sure to use a polish cloth to wipe them off. Use a lacquer cloth for gold colored instruments and a silver polish cloth for silver plated instruments.

Return your instrument to its case when you’re not playing it. If you must leave it out for short periods of time, get a stand. Most damage occurs to instruments when they are out of their cases. Don’t keep loose items in your case as they can damage your instrument.

It’s a good idea to bring your instrument to the repair shop at least once a year for inspection and routine maintenance. Sometimes we can spot minor problems early and head off expensive repairs. We’re always happy to inspect and test your instrument free of charge, and usually can do it while you wait. And if you have Amro’s Maintenance & Replacement coverage, any adjustments and repair it needs are free of charge. A properly working trumpet can actually make you a better player.
Best of luck with your trumpet. Take good care of it, and don’t forget to practice! © 2006 Amro Music Stores, Inc