How to Maintain a Cornet

In the 1800s, a Paris instrument maker came up with a single coiled brass instrument fitted with valves. This instrument was the cornet. Although sometimes overshadowed by the trumpet, people still play cornets in instrumental ensembles and for pleasure. Like all brass instruments, cornets need care.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cleaning cloths
• Mouthpiece brush
• Brass instrument polish
• Cornet cleaning brush
• Valve oil
• Valve cleaner

1. Keep brass instruments in an average temperature and humidity. Extremes in temperature and humidity can harm your cornet.

2. Maintain the outside of a cornet by wiping it with a cleaning cloth after playing and before packing it into its case.

3. Know how to put your instrument together and take it apart. If you don’t know, ask someone with experience to show you how. Never force the parts of a cornet to fit or come loose.

4. Rinse the mouthpiece weekly with a small mouthpiece brush and warm water. Sterilize in monthly in hot water. Remove a cornet mouthpiece after playing.

5. Give your cornet a bath in lukewarm water and mild soap. Polish silver and unlacquered instruments. You may need to wash again after polishing. Check the instructions on the polish.

6. Take apart the cornet to inspect the interior. Use a cornet cleaning brush to clean out the inside of the tubing. If you notice much debris, flush out the tubing with warm water.

7. Note the placement of valves before carefully removing them. Add a few drops of valve oil to the valves. Clean the valve casings with valve cleaner.

Tips & Warnings

• Use penetrating oils, such as WD-40, to loosen stuck mouthpieces.
• Don’t use pliers; they can damage brass instruments.

Resources

• Get cleaning supplies for brass instruments at Hickey Music.