INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC DEPT.
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC DEPT.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FAQ’s My
child's instrument won't play - what now? I ran over the trombone
with my car... Back to main FAQ's
My child's instrument won't play - what now? First of all, don't panic and pull out the power tools! Unless there is obvious physical distress to the instrument, the problem might be very simple. Your child's instructor is qualified in assessing most problems and capable of performing many simple repairs right in school. So, before returning it to the rental store, or paying for a repair service, send it in to have it checked out by the instructor. If it can be serviced in class, the teacher will take care of it for you. If it is a more serious problem, then the teacher will call or send home a note with instructions detailing what needs to be fixed and what is your best next step.
First of all, don't panic and pull out the power tools! If the mouthpiece will not come out by twisting and pulling by hand (much like loosening a bottle cap) then leave it in place. Brass instruments can not stand up to household tools YOU WILL DAMAGE the instrument if you use anything but a professional mouthpiece removal tool. All NA band instructors carry one of these tools with them at all times. Simply send the instrument in to the instructor and the mouthpiece can be removed safely in 30 seconds or less. The instrument probably won't fit in the case while the mouthpiece is stuck - but just carefully transport it to school by whatever method works best to protect it from further bumps or bruises. Most music stores in the area, that sell band instruments, also have the special removal tool in the event you can't get it to school (during the summer months for example).
I ran over the trombone with my car... Panic and pull out the power tools!!! Just kidding... Actually, if this would happen, you would be surprised at what a good repairman can fix. Like a car, dents, dings, even parts snapped off can usually be transformed to perform as good as new. It does require a trained specialist, though, so don't try it at home.
Questions not answered here? Contact: naband@yahoo.com |
