How to Maintain a Trumpet

Contrary to popular belief, trumpet maintenance is very simple. It's not necessary to purchase any special kits in order to do so. Here is all you need to do for regular maintenance.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Valve Oil
• Slide Grease
• Mouthpiece brush
• Soft cloth

1. Oil Valves: This is the most important thing. It should be done twice a week or more if necessary. There are two reasons that this is so important. The first is that it keeps the valve lubricated which keeps them from sticking. If they ever stick, they could get scratches or flat spots which will cause air to be able to move around them, affecting the quality of your tone. The second is that it fills any air gap, which does happen to exist, with the lubricant which will increase the tone quality. To oil the valves, press in the valve and remove the slide. Move the valve up and down repeatedly and drop a few drops of oil in each side. DO NOT remove the valves unless there is some other problem which requires attention. Oiling the valves directly opens up the possibility of many other problems including dents which must be machined out.

2. Grease Slides: While you have the slides out (see step 1), wipe them clean with a soft cloth. The point is to remove any residue, not make them shine so do not use chemicals or cleaners. Put a thin layer of grease on each side of the slide, all the way around the pipe, starting at the ends. Press in the valve and return the slide to its place. Wipe any excess from the horn. Do this for the tuning slide as well. This will prevent air from escaping the horn as you play, which affects your tone.

3. Check Corks: Most people neglect this step. If your corks are worn down, broken or deteriorating in any way, replace them. Any cork damage can result in air loss which affects tone quality. In this case, you can potentially lose a lot of air which can also make it more difficult to hit high notes.

4. 
    

   Clean Mouthpiece: No one ever does this. It's very necessary. Anything in your mouth or esophagus will be blown into the horn and it collects inside the mouthpiece. Use the mouthpiece brush to clean any residue from the mouthpiece. Then boil the mouthpiece in a pot on the stove to sterilize it. That will kill any bacteria growing in it. NEVER let anyone use your mouthpiece.

Tips & Warnings

• To increase tone, remove the bottom valve caps and place a dime under each valve.
• Never eat or drink anything prior to or while you are playing your horn.
• 95% of damage to your horn happens when you are not playing, so make sure your horn is put away when you are not using it.