Saxophone Maintenance Guide

This is general information; please see the user guide for your specific instrument.

• The mechanism must be in good working order for the sax to work properly.
  Regularly check that the pads are air tight and the springs that operate the
  mechanism have not become disengaged from their respective keys and
  that all pivot screws are tightened snugly (but not too tight). Ask your teacher
  to recommend a qualified instrument repairer and to show you how to oil the
  mechanism. LIKE ANY MACHINE, YOUR SAX NEEDS REGULAR SERVICING (AT
  LEAST ONCE A YEAR).
• Reeds wear out with playing. This unfortunate fact means that you must
  replace them regularly to maintain a good musical sound. Reeds are
  available from Old Bank Music Shop. Always keep a few spares in your case
  to use if your current ones get damaged. They are thin pieces of cane that
  can easily split or chip, so handle with care by always picking them up by the
  thick end (butt).
• Changes in temperature will affect the tone and fundamental pitch of your
  instrument. As the instrument gets warmer, the air inside gets less dense and
  the pitch goes up (sharper). Conversely, as it cools it goes flatter. Move the
  mouthpiece towards you (ie further off the neck) to lower the pitch and away
  from you (ie push further on) to raise it.
• Your instrument is designed to be played at room temperature (21 degrees
  Celsius). Before performing, warm up by playing for at least 5 minutes. Use the
  swab/ pull through regularly in breaks to keep the inside of your instrument
  dry.
• BEFORE playing the instrument, apply a small amount of cork grease to the
  neck cork to prevent it drying out. Put the mouthpiece onto the neck before
  putting the reed and ligature on and attaching the neck to the body. When
  not playing, put the cap on the mouthpiece.
• NEVER use oils, solvents or anti corrosive products to clean your instrument.