Storing your instrument:
When not using the instrument, keep it closed in its case to help protect the finish from unnecessary exposure to impurities in the air, especially in geographic areas affected by salt or sulfur content. Also, keeping it in its case helps prevent the possibility of damage by dropping it or sitting on it accidentally. Do not store the instrument in areas of extreme temperature changes. Keep the instrument away from radiators or from windows where direct sunlight can cause extreme heat.


Putting your saxophone together:
Before assembling the instrument, remove the end-plug from the body. Insert the neck into the body using a gentle twisting motion and tighten the screw just enough to stop the neck from moving. Apply cork grease to the neck cork. Slide the mouthpiece about half way onto the neck cork using a gentle twisting motion.


Putting your saxophone away:
After you have played your instrument, clean it before putting it away. Use a polishing cloth or soft flannel cloth to wipe off perspiration and fingerprints. Disassemble your instrument then remove all moisture and dirt particles from the neck and body interior using a cleaning swab. Clean out the neck occasionally using luke warm soapy water and a flexible neck brush. Rinse with cold water and dry with a swab.
After each playing, wipe the mouthpiece with a soft cloth. Clean your mouthpiece at least once a week, brushing out the inside with a mouthpiece brush and warm soapy water. Rinse with cold water and dry.


Key mechanism:
Oil the key mechanism occasionally and sparingly with a high quality key oil. Once every month should be sufficient and oil should be applied with a special key oiler to prevent excessive application. Wipe off any excess oil carefully.


Pad care:
Pads can get dirty and sticky even when you do your best to keep them clean. You can wipe off any dirt or moisture from the tone holes and pads by the followin method. After playing and while the pads are still damp, insert a piece of thin absorbent paper or cloth between the pad and tone hole. Press down on the pad to absorb moisture and stickiness. Repeat this two or three times.


Repair and maintenance:
Worn felts, worn corks, loose pads, bent springs or keys can result after a period of continuous use. We recommend the instrument be serviced at least once a year by a competent service technician. This will keep the instrument in top playing condition and help avoid costly repairs later on.


Yamaha’s Product and repair specialist Brae Grimes takes you through the ins and outs of setting up your saxophone, how to correctly clean it and best practice for keeping your instrument in great condition.


Website by Boylen - © Copyright 2024 Size Music