How to Get a Baritone Valve Unstuck

When baritone valves stick, the results can be difficult to remedy.

The baritone horn is a brass instrument. When played, the musician's breath enters the horn through the mouthpiece, creating the note of B flat. Valves on the instrument are pressed or lifted to create additional tones on the B-flat concert scale. Baritone horns need to be cleaned periodically, a process which involves removing the valves to add lubricant. When a baritone horn valve is stuck, removing the valve becomes difficult.

Things You'll Need

• Valve oil
• Kitchen rubber glove
• Soft cloth

Instructions

1. Visually inspect the baritone for damage impeding the valve's removal. If there is damage to the horn, removing the valves by force can create more problems -- damaged horns need to be repaired by a professional.

2. Open the valve oil and place a drop on the threads of the valve, near the join in the valve and the instrument's body. Allow the oil to soak in.

3. Put on a clean rubber kitchen glove and grasp the valve top. Turn the valve counterclockwise to remove. If the valve is partially removed and still sticks, add additional valve oil and twist.

4. Clean and inspect the valves. Lubricate the valve and threads with a drop of valve oil to prevent future sticking.

References

• MRHS Band Homepage: Euphonium Maintenance and Care
• Dollarhide's Music Center: Dollarhide's Music and Sound Maintenance Recommendations; Floyd Replogle