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How to Maintain Your Instrument: Care Tips for Longevity

Akshit Sharma

Your instrument is more than just a tool—it’s your companion in music. Whether you're

strumming a guitar, drumming beats or mastering the violin, the condition of your instrument

shapes your sound. Proper care not only ensures longevity but also inspires better practice and

performance. Let’s explore how you can keep your instrument in top shape so it continues to

make beautiful music for years to come.


Essential Care Tips for Every Musician


1. Clean After Every Use: Dirt and sweat can damage your instrument. Wipe down your guitar

strings, keyboard keys, drum skins, or violin bow with a soft, lint-free cloth after every session.


2. Store Properly: Always store your instrument in a protective case, away from moisture and

extreme temperatures. A good case can prevent damage from accidental bumps and

environmental changes.


3. Regular Maintenance: Strings need replacing, drum skins need tightening, and keyboards

may need cleaning of internal parts. Schedule routine maintenance to catch wear and tear early.


Stories of Care: Inspiration from the Legends


Did you know Eric Clapton once said, “My guitar is not a thing. It is an extension of myself. It is

who I am.” Clapton’s dedication to his instruments is legendary—he used to restring his guitar

regularly and ensure it was polished before every gig. This meticulous care allowed him to

maintain his iconic tone throughout his career.

Similarly, violinist Itzhak Perlman has often spoken about the importance of proper humidity for

violins. He once shared that a small humidifier in his violin case saved his 1714 Stradivarius

from cracking during a harsh winter. These stories remind us that treating our instruments with

respect is part of being a great musician.


Instrument-Specific Tips


Guitar: Replace strings every 3–6 months, depending on usage. Keep the fretboard clean using

a specialized fretboard conditioner and avoid exposing the wood to extreme dryness.


Keyboard: Dust is the enemy. Cover your keyboard when not in use and use a soft brush to

clean between the keys. Check the connections periodically if it’s an electronic keyboard.


Drums: Loosen drum heads slightly if you're storing the set for an extended time to prevent

warping. Use drumstick sleeves to avoid leaving dents on drum heads.


Violin: Clean the rosin buildup on your strings and bow hair regularly. Use a violin polish for the

body but avoid over-polishing as it can damage the varnish.


Scientific Backing for Proper Care


A study conducted by the American Federation of Musicians highlighted that well-maintained

instruments produce consistently better sound and are less prone to performance issues.

Investing a little time daily in your instrument’s upkeep can save you money on repairs and

make your practice sessions more rewarding.


Let’s Make Music Together!


At BodhiTree School of Music, we understand that learning music is more than just mastering

technique—it’s about forming a lifelong bond with your instrument. Our teachers ensure that

students not only learn to play but also learn to care for their instruments. Join us and start your

journey to becoming a well-rounded musician.



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