- Assemble your instrument the first time under the guidance of your instructor.
- Do
not use any lubricant on the flute tenon joint as this can harm the pads, attract dirt and damage the tenons. (A thin coat
of cork grease is used on the piccolo tenon corks.)
- Taking care not to apply pressure to the main body keys, attach
the foot to the body with a gently twisting motion. If the tenons do not fit together easily have a repairman adjust the tenon.
Attach the headjoint in the same manner.
- Moisture can damage the pads of the instrument, so be sure to swab the interior
every time after playing before storing your instrument in the case. (There are several convenient products available to accomplish
this task.)
- Wipe down the outside of your instrument with a dry polishing cloth, being careful not to apply pressure
to the keys as this could scratch, bend or damage them.
- Key Oil should not be used except by your repairman, instructor,
or band director as this can be an expensive cause of repairs.
- Avoid spinning the headjoint crown. There is a cork,
precisely placed, inside the headjoint which partially accounts for the intonation of the instrument.
- Do not place
any items (cloths, in particular) in the case on top of the instrument when returning the instrument to the case as this can
damage the keys.
- Annual maintenance is recommended to keep your instrument in proper adjustment and extend the life
of the instrument.
|
Image courtesy of Mark Shepard and illustrated by Anne Subercaseaux |
