Trombone Care

1. Great care is needed when handling your trombone. The smallest bump or dent in the slide can cause problems with its proper movement. Due to the precision needed in adjustment of the slide, repairs are time consuming and costly so...Be Careful!

2. The slide needs to be lubricated on a regular basis. Apply a small amount of slide oil or cream to the boot area of the slide as needed. The boot is at the very end of the slide, so be careful not to allow the slide to slip off the trombone.

3. Occasionally a mouthpiece will become stuck in the trombone. If this happens don't try force to remove it - this can cause major damage to the instrument. Take it to Mrs. Sullivan or a repair shop where they use a special tool to remove the mouthpiece.

4. After you are finished playing make sure you remove any excess moisture from the inside of the trombone by opening the water key and blowing through the instrument. Carefully wipe off the outside of the trombone to remove oils or perspiration caused by your hands.

5. Always store your trombone in its case when not in use, this helps prevent damage and aids in keeping the instrument clean. Do not place books or folders in the case, this can bend slides and cause problems. Also, make sure that your mouthpiece is properly stored in its holder or in a case. If loose, it will dent the instrument.

1. Check the tuning slide to see that it moves freely and lubricate it with slide grease if needed.

2. The inside of your trombone needs to be cleaned regularly. This may not be needed every month but should be done at least every 3 months. See this website on Brass Cleaning for more information.

If you clean your instrument on a regular basis you may not need any additional yearly care, however, repair shops have the ability to chemically clean your instrument which is a more thorough cleaning than can be done at home.