Need help putting the instrument together? We’ve got easy step-by-step guides for every instrument right here.
Getting started the right way matters. Proper assembly not only helps your child play better – it prevents damage and frustration down the road. Below are quick reminders for each instrument, with links to video guides you can watch together.
Flute
Simple, but delicate. Handle carefully to avoid bending keys.
- Hold pieces by the smooth metal tubing, not the keys.
- Headjoint: line up the hole with the center of the keys.
- Footjoint: align the rod with the center of the bottom keys.
- If it feels tight, use a gentle twisting motion, never force. (you may need to wipe down the tenons if its a bit dirty)
- Always check the flute is straight before playing.
Watch the video →
Clarinet
Lots of parts, but easy once you get the order right.
- Assemble from the bell upward: bell → lower joint → upper joint → barrel → mouthpiece.
- Grease corks regularly so joints slide smoothly.
- When connecting upper and lower joints, press the bridge key so it doesn’t bend.
- Reed should be damp before putting on, flat side against the mouthpiece.
- Never leave the reed on after playing, it will warp & get really gross!
Watch the video →
Saxophone
Big and fragile, always use the neck strap before lifting.
- Body stays in the case until the strap is on.
- Attach the neck to the body gently, line up the octave key.
- Mouthpiece slides onto the cork with cork grease as needed.
- Tighten ligature screws evenly (not too tight!).
- Always swab the inside after playing to prevent sticky pads.
Watch the video →
Trumpet
Straightforward, but valves are easy to damage.
- Insert the mouthpiece with a twist, never a push (to avoid it getting stuck).
- Valves must stay in the right order, each is numbered.
- When oiling, pull out the valve, add a few drops, then carefully put back into place. (avoid spinning the valves in the casing)
- Slides should move smoothly, use slide grease sparingly.
- Always release water from the spit valve after playing.
Watch the video →
Trombone
Unique build, treat the slide like glass.
- Connect slide and bell sections carefully, tightening the lock ring.
- Hold the trombone by the brace, never the slide.
- Lock the slide when not playing, even for a moment.
- Oil the slide often: a little lubricant and a spray of water keeps it smooth.
- Never set the trombone down on the bell, it can warp the slide.
Watch the video →
French Horn
Different from other brass, left hand works the valves.
- Insert mouthpiece with a gentle twist, don’t jam it.
- Right hand rests lightly inside the bell; it helps with tone.
- Always carry by the tubing, not the valve levers.
- Don’t rest the horn on its bell, it can damage the shape.
- Empty water through all slides after playing.
Watch the video →
Baritone/Euphonium
Solid and reliable, but still needs care.
- Mouthpiece goes in with a light twist, never force.
- Valves are numbered, keep them in order.
- Oil valves from the top (don’t remove bottom caps unless cleaning).
- Use slide grease on tuning slides to keep them moving freely.
- Hold the instrument from the body, not by the valves or tubing.
Watch the video →
Violin/Viola
Delicate parts, assembly is quick but precise.
- Tighten the bow before playing (about a pencil’s width between stick and hair).
- Rosin the bow a bit every time, it helps make the strings vibrate.
- Fine tuners make small pitch changes, turn gently to tune
- Loosen the bow before putting it back in the case.
Watch the video →
Cello/Bass
Large and sensitive to bumps, set it up carefully.
- Extend the endpin so the scroll is near ear height when seated.
- Bow must be tightened and rosined before playing.
- Fine tuners are for small adjustments; pegs are for bigger ones (but turn slowly!).
- Always carry upright and store in a safe spot, not leaning on walls.
Watch the video →
Percussion/Bell Kit
Compact but with multiple moving parts.
- Open the stand fully so it’s stable before adding bells or pad.
- Angle the bells or pad slightly toward the player for comfort.
- Sticks and mallets should always be stored in the case.
- Never hit the bells too hard, light strokes give the best sound.
- Pack everything carefully, loose parts can bend or break.
Watch the video →