A Guide to Keeping Your Band or Orchestra Instrument in Top Shape for Spring Performances

Spring is a crucial season for student musicians — concerts, festivals and district, city and state competitions are just around the corner. Whether you’re bound and determined to earn a coveted "1" rating at state or want to deliver your best concert performance (or solo) ever, taking care of your band or orchestra instrument is as important as putting in the time to practice your music. Even the most skilled musicians can struggle if their instrument isn’t in top shape.

Meyer Music supports thousands of Kansas City students through every stage of their band and orchestra seasons and competitions. Along with competition sponsorships, band and orchestra instrument rentals, repairs and private music lessons, we want to make sure every musician has the resources to succeed. Our experts and educators recommend the following tips to keep your band or orchestra instrument in performance-ready condition this spring.

1. Clean and Maintain Your Instrument Regularly

Dust, moisture and general wear can impact sound quality and playability. You’ve probably heard this a million times from your band or orchestra director, but remember to set aside a few minutes each week to clean your instrument properly:

Brass Instruments

• Flush your instrument with warm (not hot) water to clear out buildup.
• Use valve oil regularly and clean slides to keep everything moving smoothly.
• Wipe down the exterior with a microfiber cloth to prevent tarnish and fingerprints.

Woodwind Instruments

• Swab your instrument after every playing session to remove moisture and prevent mold.
• Check pads for leaks, as even a small air leak can affect tone quality.
• Keep multiple reeds in rotation — breaking in new reeds gradually prevents sudden sound shifts.

String Instruments

• Wipe down strings and the fingerboard to remove rosin buildup.
• Keep tuning pegs adjusted to avoid slipping during performances.
• Regularly check the bridge for proper alignment and avoid overtightening fine tuners.

Percussion Instruments

• Inspect drumheads for signs of wear and replace them as needed.
• Clean mallets and sticks to maintain a balanced tone and prevent damage.
• Tighten hardware and check pedal mechanisms for smooth operation.

2. Store Your Instrument Properly

Spring weather in Kansas City can be unpredictable. One day it’s sunny, the next it’s cold and damp. Temperature swings and humidity can damage instruments, so:

• Never leave your instrument in a hot or cold car. Sudden temperature changes can warp wood, crack finishes or damage key mechanisms.
• Store it in its case when not in use. Cases protect against drops, dust and temperature changes.
• Use humidity control packs (especially for wooden instruments like clarinets, oboes and stringed instruments) to prevent cracking or warping.

3. Check for Needed Repairs Before It’s Too Late to Get Them Done

Nothing is worse than discovering a sticky valve, cracked bridge or loose key right before a competition or concert. If you notice something feels “off,” bring it in for a professional check-up. Meyer Music offers expert repairs for band and orchestra instruments, so don’t wait until the last minute.

Common repair issues to watch for:

• Brass players: Stuck tuning slides, slow-moving valves or excessive denting.
• Woodwind players: Warped reeds, torn pads or bent keys.
• String players: A cracked bridge, loose pegs or worn-out strings.
• Percussionists: Loose snare wires, pedal malfunctions or cracked cymbals.

4. Break In New Reeds, Strings, and Mouthpieces Early

If you’re replacing reeds, strings or switching mouthpieces for your big performance, give yourself plenty of time to adjust. New gear can feel and sound different, so start playing on it at least a couple of weeks in advance.

• Woodwind players: Play on a new reed for a few minutes each day before fully switching over.
• String players: Expect new strings to stretch and tune frequently until they settle.
• Brass players: New mouthpieces can change your embouchure, so practice gradually.

5. Remember the Little Details

• Reed players: Keep multiple good reeds on hand (you don’t want to be stuck with a bad one on performance day).
• Brass players: Bring extra valve oil and slide grease.
• String players: Have spare strings and check your bow hair.
• Percussionists: Make sure you have all the right sticks, mallets and hardware you need.

6. Supplement Your Band or Orchestra Class with Private Lessons

Even with a well-maintained instrument, top performances require solid technique and musical confidence. Meyer Music offers private lessons for students of all skill levels, helping them refine their playing ahead of competitions and concerts. One-on-one instruction ensures that students are not only ready but also performing at their highest potential.

7. Prepare for the Big Day

With state music competitions and spring concerts approaching, it’s important to mentally and physically prepare. In addition to keeping your instrument in great shape, remember to:

• Practice performance-style. Run through your piece as if you were on stage — no stopping, no starting over.
• Get plenty of rest. A well-rested musician performs better.
• Stay hydrated. Dry lips and tired hands can make playing harder.
• Have a backup plan. Bring extra reeds, strings or drumsticks in case of emergencies.

Be Ready for Your Best Performance Yet!

Music competitions and concerts are all about preparation — both musically and physically. Meyer Music is here to help you take good care of your instrument, so nothing gets in the way of doing your best.