Care of Your String Instrument
Never lean a cello against the wall.
The standard way to put a cello down (when it is not in the bag) is to set the instrument down on the floor on its side.
Keep the instrument in the case.
Always put your instrument in the case or bag when it is not being played. Don’t forget to latch the case or zip the bag.
Treat your instrument as if it were a person.
If the temperature and humidity are comfortable for you, then it is comfortable for the instrument. Avoid extreme heat and direct sunlight. When traveling by car, keep the instrument in the passenger compartment.
Loosen the bow hair every time the bow is put away.
Don’t touch the hair with your fingers, and be careful of the fragile tip.
Keep the instrument clean.
Wipe the rosin dust off daily, using a soft cloth.
Leave tuning the instrument to your teacher.
Your instrument will sound better and will stay in better tune if it is tuned daily. Strings are sensitive to overtuning and may break if tightened too much.
Check the bridge for straightness.
The bridge should stand straight up and down without leaning forward. If you would like the shop to adjust the bridge for you, the work can be done while you wait.