FAQs

1) What does a routine service of an instrument include?

An annual servicing of your instrument should include: cleaning and oiling of mechanisms, clean and sealing of octave vents and tone holes, replacing worn/missing bumper and tenon corks, adjusting the fit of the mechanisms and maintaining the seal of the instrument.

2) My instrument feels fine to me, does it still need work?

If a specialist has not serviced your instrument in the last year, you can count on the fact that it would benefit from some special attention. It is a good idea to have other people play your instrument from time to time. Someone else may notice a problem that you have just gotten used to.

3) Since my instrument is brand new, does it still need work done to it?

Unfortunately “new” in the world of woodwinds does not mean it plays at its optimal ability. Most manufacturers have only minimal standards when it comes to the finishing and final assembly of the instrument. It is almost certain that your new instrument needs to be “set up”. Not only to correct small problems in the manufacturing but also to personalize the instrument so that it performs the best it can for you. Keep in mind that although some dealers “set up” the instrument, their cost for doing the work comes out of their profit and therefore they may be biased as to the amount of work that the instrument needs.

4) My instrument was run over by a bus, could you fix it?

Not as uncommon as you might think! Well, honestly we have not heard this one so much, but many times instruments do experience trauma. Most common is, “I dropped or fell on my oboe and now the keys won’t move.” Keys can be straightened and stuck swabs can be removed, although your ego may be damaged forever. It is best not to attempt these repairs yourself and do have the instrument serviced by a professional.

5) I have never had my instrument worked on in the 20 years since I’ve owned it. If it isn’t broke don’t fix it right?

This old saying has plagued many wind players. If you have not had your instrument worked on in 20 years than you have lost any frame of reference on how a well-adjusted instrument performs. Most definitely that instrument needs work and probably a lot of it.

6) My instrument moves around a lot in the case. Is that a bad thing?

The instrument case is the first line of protection that your instrument has from the elements, bumps, and knocks. If the instrument moves around a lot in the case it will never maintain a good adjustment. There are now low cost options to replacing your OEM case. Contact us for your case needs.

7) How soon before an audition/major performance should I have work done to my instrument?

Don’t wait until the last minute. By then you have most likely compensated for any problems in the instrument with your reeds. Then when you do get the instrument sealed up you may not like your reed box very much. If possible, have your instrument serviced about 4-6 weeks before that audition or major performance, so you have time to get reacquainted with your instrument.

8) How do I tell if the problem is my reed or the instrument or just me needing to practice?

It is important to keep a frame of reference with regard to how a well-adjusted and sealing instrument performs. Try as many instruments as you can and have other people try yours. Have your instrument adjusted every year. If you think there is something wrong with your instrument, then there probably is.

9) Should I learn to do repairs myself?

Many musicians try to maintain their instrument by themselves. Although the average person can perform some of the necessary procedures, keep in mind that what you may do once a year an expert does everyday. We have tested our techniques over thousands of instruments and are well versed in many makes and models of instruments. For you oboists, it is important for you to understand the basic screw adjustments on the oboe. These adjustment screws are a unique aspect of the oboe family. We have provided an adjustment guide for the basic adjustments. Please download this guide and keep it with your oboe.

10) My instrument isn’t working, what does it cost to fix it?

This is one of the most popular questions! The problem for us is, until we see your instrument we don’t know what kind of work it may need. We will discuss with you what the instrument may need and options to proceed. Over the decades we have built many lasting relationships with clients which didn’t happen by price gouging. Quality work takes time, special tooling, inventory of supplies and parts, proper insurance, etc. We want your instrument to work the best it can for your needs. Having your instrument maintained is the key. A properly maintained instrument is less likely to need those emergency repairs. Most projects are not full overhauls (although we do plenty of those!)

11) Does fixing a crack change the sound of my instrument?

Another shop favorite! The short answer is ‘No’ if done correctly! This myth has been going around for decades at least. Probably due to so many less than adequate repair jobs over the years. The most important issue with repairing a crack is that most kinds of repair are permanent. Take great care in who you trust to make permanent alterations to your instrument.