I Had No Idea! Did You Know?

Am I the only person that didn't know makeup, sunscreen, and bug spray can damage an instrument? Through conversations with PMC luthier, Karl Franks, and repair technician, Ryan Boone, I've learned that most repairs are not from major accidents. The majority of repairs are due to the lack of maintenance or improper maintenance. Ryan suggests directors devote just five minutes each week to demonstrate and supervise students with the general maintenance of their instrument. Consistent reinforcement of proper maintenance practices will help avoid untimely and costly repairs. Until I had talked with our repair techs, I had no idea DEET dissolves plastic (and synthetic clothing) and could eventually destroy an instrument. Just in case you didn't know, below are a few tips from our repair staff: 

Glitter makeup: Violins and violas with glitter makeup residue in the varnish is a repair request Karl is seeing more frequently. Varnish isn't necessarily a protective layer on the exterior of the instrument. It is absorbed by the wood, so glitter in the varnish becomes a part of the instrument and can lead to a time-consuming and costly repair. Orchestra directors may request students not wear glitter makeup, or at the very least, insist students use a polishing cloth regularly to remove the residue.

Sunscreen and bug spray: Our repair staff strongly suggests students use DEET-free bug spray for marching band or other outdoor events. DEET dissolves plastic which affects numerous components of brass and woodwind instruments. Also, sunscreen residue collects in the rods of woodwind instruments and the slides and valves of brass instruments. The buildup will eventually lead to stuck slides and frozen keys and valves. Directors may suggest students wash their hands after applying sunscreen and always keep the instrument at a safe distance if using a spray. Furthermore, directors must continually remind students to make time to wipe off any sweat, sunscreen, and bug spray after each use.

Silver Polish: As directors, we applaud students taking the initiative to polish their instrument before an important performance. In most cases, the students have limited time and are satisfied with a temporarily improved appearance. Used improperly, silver polish can dissolve the silver plating and any residue will eventually lead to stuck slides and keys. Some popular brands, such as Wright's, must be rinsed with water after application, then dried and buffed using a soft cloth. Directors should advise students on approved polish brands and demonstrate the proper procedures following the manufacturer's instructions.

Again, consider devoting a portion of each week's rehearsal schedule to instrument care and maintenance. With proper guidance, those brief sessions could save your program from emergency and costly repairs. As John Wooden once stated, "If you don't have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?"