The trombone is a unique instrument that represents a fundamental component of a band or orchestra. It is in fact the only instrument that still uses a drawstring to change notes. The legendary Vincent Bach predicted that the trombone would also become a valve instrument and that the drawstring would become a relic of the past. Well, Mr. Bach was wrong from that point of view. The versatility of the trombone has made it a fundamental brass instrument. It is the only brass instrument that can perform a long glissando (i.e. sliding from one note to another). The drawstring trombone has become a dynamic part of symphony bands, orchestras, brass bands and jazz groups. To play a tuned trombone, however, routine maintenance is required. Even if your instrument is brand new, the drawstring and the trombone itself need to be cleaned regularly. If you need some advice to understand where to start, you are in the right place! Remember: Whether you intend to sell your instrument in a few years or keep it for half a century, caring for it will increase its value or make it last longer!
Steps
Step 1. Steps to be performed every 2-6 months
Step 2. Fill a bathtub with warm water
Do not use hot water. You could apply a damp towel or cloth to the bottom of the tub to avoid any scratches. It should be repeated: ATTENTION: DO NOT use hot water for any reason!
Hot water could damage the enamel. Warm water, on the other hand, will do just fine
Step 3. Break the trombone down into its two main parts, the drawstring and the bell
Then divide the outer drawstring from the inner one. You should end up with three separate components. Also remove the tuning drawstring (or both, if you have an F / Bb trombone).
You should find yourself with four (or five) components submerged in water. Add the mouthpiece too
Step 4. Soak all the components in the tub with lukewarm water and leave them to soak for a few minutes
Remember to handle all components with care.
Step 5. After leaving the various components in the water for 5-10 minutes, remove the bell and rub it gently with a cotton cloth on the outside and, as far as possible, also on the inside
- Rinse the bell with cold water.
- Use the beach towel and dry the bell as much as possible. Place it in a safe place where it is not likely to be bumped and let it air dry.
Step 6. Pull out the outer drawstring and scrub it back and forth with a flexible toothbrush, also called a snake
Make sure the drawstring is filled with water. Repeat this for a couple of minutes on each side.
You will probably see dirt coming out. It is a positive sign! Keep scrubbing for at least a minute on each side. Use a stream of cold water to clean the inside and outside of the outer drawstring. Dry it with the beach towel and store it to dry with the bell
Step 7. Pull out the inner drawstring and wipe it using a cotton cloth, gently but firmly, working up and down along the outer side
Then take the toothbrush and clean the inside of the outer drawstring, just like you did for the outside. Rinse it, rub it with the towel and let it dry with the other components.
Step 8. Use the flexible toothbrush to clean the inside of the tuning drawstring
Often the lubricant of the tuning drawstring will tend to stick to the part of the drawstring that attaches to the bell. To clean it use a penetrating oil. Spray the oil on the tuning drawstring and let it sit for a few minutes, before cleaning the sticky substance as carefully as possible. If the tool has not been cleaned for a long time, this process may need to be repeated several times
Step 9. Take the mouthpiece brush and push it back and forth along the part of the mouthpiece that fits into the trombone
This will take around 30 seconds in all. Rub the mouthpiece with a cotton cloth and dry it. Dirt in the mouthpiece could severely damage the airflow, so clean it very carefully.
Step 10. Complete the whole process
- After you've completely air-dried your instrument, you'll end up with a perfectly clean trombone. You will need to reapply the lubricant on the various components that require it. Don't overdo it - a small amount lasts for a long time.
- Insert the tuning drawstring back into the bell. Remove excess fat with a cotton cloth. Congratulations, you've finished cleaning your trombone! Remember to do this carefully and very often.
Advice
- If possible, use the shower jet to rinse the components.
- Wind instruments covered in silver will likely tend to oxidize within a couple of days of cleaning. Use a mild silver polish and clean the tool, always following the instructions on the container. Remember to clean only the outside, as the inside is typically done in brass or copper.
Warnings
- Do not use a hair dryer to dry your instrument: it could blow out too hot air and damage the enamel.
- Do not use abrasive cloths: they will scratch the enamel of the instrument.
- Be careful when handling the components, especially the inner and outer drawstrings.
