OpenOrchestras

Caring for Instruments

Your child now has an instrument to use for the entirety of 5th grade! Whether it is a violin, viola, or cello I hope your child is excited to play the instrument and I know we've talked about keeping it safe in class. To keep parents and families in the loop, here is a guide to caring for the instrument you now have at home.

 

I. Transportation

 Your child is now responsible for bringing the instrument to school and home every Tuesday and Thursday.

Since the instruments are made out of thin wood, temperature makes a big difference for them. Because of this, try to avoid leaving the instrument in extreme temperatures (any temperature you would not be comfortable in a t-shirt in) for long periods of time (over half an hour). For instance, if it is cold outside, do not leave the instrument in the car when you go shopping. A common mistake is to put the instrument in the trunk and forget it when you get home - avoid this! This is also reminder that cellos cannot be transported on the bus.

 

II.  A Place for the instrument

Designate a safe place in your home for the instrument when it is not in use. This place should be out of the way, away from any heaters or windows, and away from any water source (a sink, etc). Getting into a routine with your child will help protect their instrument. Please also note that even though the instrument is in the case, that case will only protect it from slight bumps and the likes. Sitting on the case, putting things on it, etc will damage the instrument!
 

III. Non-students

Please do not allow others in your family (siblings, cousins, yourself) to play your child’s instrument unless they also play that instrument. Your child is now a “professional” on this instrument - we have worked hard on how to hold it safely, move with it, and treat the instrument. The best way to keep the instrument safe is to limit the number of people who come into contact with it.
 

IV. Breaks and such

If something happens to the instrument, please tell me right away and send the instrument to school with your child. Do not try to repair the instrument yourself. Most of the time, “breaks” are something that I can easily fix. Though it is wood, there are many special things about the instrument. Never use pledge, glue, tape or anything else on the instrument.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask!