1. Common Instrument Problems By Keren & Michael Barr North Georgia Band Instrument Service

2. Woodwinds • Problem: Key is not returning to its resting position (either open or closed) • Solution: Check to ensure that the spring is in its appropriate cradle on the key • Use a spring hook to manipulate springs in to position

3. Woodwinds • Problem: Saxophone or bass clarinet neck is too loose • Solution: Check the neck screw – it should enter the socket from the side with no threads • Bundy and Bundy II, some European horns enter from the player’s left, others from the right

4. Woodwinds • Problem: Instrument is squeaking, out of tune, or won’t play properly and there are no signs of damage to pads or key work • Solution: Check that all joints match • If a joint or neck is loose air can leak from the area causing the entire instrument to not play properly • Check the reed, mouthpiece or ligature for cracks, chips and other damage

5. Woodwinds • Problem: Saxophone will not play in low register • Solution: Check octave key adjustment

6. Brass • Problem: Air will not flow freely through the horn • Solution: Check that all valves are aligned properly • Remove valves, insert 3rd, blow, insert 2nd, blow, insert 1st, blow • Check condition of valve guide

7. Brass • Problem: Air will not flow freely through Yamaha euphonium or piston tuba • Solution: Two holes on top of valve • Small hole is for for guide tab • Larger hole is a vent • Also applies to Jupiter tubas and euphoniums

9. Brass • Problem: Trumpet valve has been disassembled • Solution: Reassemble in this order: • Insert the valve guide through the side of the spring barrel • Insert the spring ON TOP of the valve guide • Screw on the valve stem • Place the stem felt over the stem • Place the top cap over the stem felt • Screw on the finger button • Consult one of the other valve to check for the proper orientation of the guides

11. Brass • Problem: Stuck mouthpiece • Solution: Use a Bobcat mouthpiece puller • VERY user-friendly • Will remove 98% of stuck mouthpieces • Very safe when used properly

12. Brass

13. Brass • Problem: Waterkey is leaking • Solution: Check condition of waterkey assembly • Check the waterkey cork and replace if necessary • Check for proper spring tension • Ensure that the screw is properly tightened

14. Brass • Problem: Horn lever string is broken • Solution: Restring according to diagram • Take care to properly loop strings under and over