Looking after your metal flute : helpful hints

1) Never use grease or lubricant on the joints as this will attract dust and grit which will cause the joints not to fit as well as they should.

2) Avoid leaving a cleaning cloth or mop in the case as this will put undue pressure on the keys and the case hinges, evetually damaging them both. The best solution is to keep the flute case inside a carrying case so the cloth can be stored seperately. If the cloth is damp, it will also spoil the appearance of the keys, causing tarnishing and pitting, and will make springs and screws rust.

3) After each use, the flute should be wiped thoroughly with a soft cloth to remove moisture and grease from finger contact with the keys and body. If not removed, these deposits will also cause damage to the metal surface. A silver polishing cloth or liquid polish should be used VERY sparingly and only if the tarnish on the metal cannot be removed by normal wiping. Avoid polish contact with the pads.

4) Clean and dry the bores (insides of the tubes) using a cleaning rod or cloth.

5) Periodically, between services, put a TINY drop of oil on the key mechanisms and where the key rods are screwed into the pillars.

6) Have the instrument adjusted and seviced regularly. This will keep the mechanism in the best playing order and will make the instrument more responsive when the keys are pressed. This will help your progress and also your enjoyment.

7) A recommended service schedule is: a full service at least annually, with a check/adjust (minor) service in between at six months.