If It Ain't Broke...Fix It

It is no secret that band instruments can take a real beating. From the clarinet that gets sat on, to the sousaphone that is in its 45th year of service, they all need maintenance to continue helping students learn music. But...there are a ton of opinions out there on what good maintenance is and when it is needed.

It is my opinion that the best maintenance happens before it is needed. In other words, the best maintenance is preventative maintenance. You can think of preventative maintenance on brass instruments like getting an oil change on your vehicle. The instrument gets chemically cleaned and, in the process, any other potential problems are identified and addressed while in the shop. For woodwind instruments, preventative maintenance is more like getting your tires rotated and getting a 48-point inspection. While all of these services have a specific repair goal, they prevent much bigger and more expensive problems before they start.

After having observed many approaches to band inventory maintenance by many programs across the region, I can truthfully say that instruments benefit the most when they are serviced regularly whether or not problems exist. Instruments come apart without issue, there are usually fewer dents and broken solders, and the exterior finish is typically in better condition. In contrast, when repairing inventory that has only been minimally repaired as-needed, nearly every step in the repair process takes longer, is more involved, and is more expensive to the customer. Additionally, these instruments usually require more part replacement, and the cost can add up very quickly.

It is reasonable to argue that as-needed maintenance is less expense year-over-year as compared to a regular service schedule. However, longevity of service should also be considered in this equation, as should player experience. Instruments that are regularly serviced will far outlast their counterparts and will provide a greater chance of success for students along the way. When factoring in the cost of replacing inventory and player experience, the long-term loss will far outweigh the short-term increase in repair cost for preventative maintenance.

Clearly, budgetary concerns have to be considered when it comes to the cost-benefit of yearly or regular maintenance, and the "right" answer will be different for everyone. But, if you can make it happen, preventative maintenance will ultimately save money (and students) in the long-run.

Chase was first introduced to the world of band instrument repair while working a summer job as a shop helper. He quickly realized he had a passion and aptitude for repair. Chase graduated from the University of Arkansas with a Bachelor's Degree in Music (Performance-Trumpet) in 2002 and joined the repair profession full-time. After getting married in 2008, Chase and Kalyn moved to Fayetteville, Arkansas where they reside today. Chase has been serving the Northwest Arkansas area for more than 10 years and continues to find new ways to support musicians in their musical needs.