We specialize in the maintenance and repair of band and orchestral instruments. This includes cleaning, dent removal, soldering, pad replacement and adjustments. Hands on estimates are strongly recommended and are provided free of charge. We also maintain an inventory of hardware necessary for case repair. Our most common services include:
Brass Instruments
Chem Clean – During the normal playing of a brass instrument, a layer of debris consisting of old grease, food particles, and corrosion develops which can change the bore size and affect the playing of an instrument. This coating can easily be .005” or thicker. The difference between a medium-large and a large bore trumpet is only .003”. This layer affects the playability as well as the valve and slide action. If left unchecked, it can lead to de-zincification or the rotting of the instrument from the inside out. Our Cheam Clean Service removes that layer of debris without hurting the integrity of the metal of the instrument. The instrument is disassembled and ultrasonically or chemically cleaned. It is then given a thorough examination so minor problems can be addressed before they become major issues. The instrument is then reassembled and adjusted as needed; replacing worn springs, corks and felts. French horn valves are restrung and trombone handslides are aligned and adjusted. In the case of a silver instrument, the instrument is then polished with a protective silver polish. Finally, the instrument is play tested by a qualified technician.
Handslide Action – Trombone handslide alignment is crucial for the proper playability of the instrument. The average tolerance between the inside and outside slide tubes is only .008”. The handslide is cleaned, minor dents are removed, and slide tubes are straightened and aligned for parallel. The spacing is adjusted and worn felts, corks and springs are replaced if necessary.
Woodwind Instruments
Clean and Adjust – The instrument is disassembled and cleaned to remove old grease, food particles and corrosion. It is then reassembled, adjusted and play tested by a technician.
Complete Repad – The instrument is disassembled and cleaned to remove old grease, food particles and corrosion. All pads, worn springs, necessary key corks and tenon/neck corks are replaced. Instrument is then reassembled, adjusted and thoroughly tested by a technician.
String Instruments
Bridge Replacement – The feet of the new bridge are cut to fit the top of the instrument, the body is shaped to maximize sound transfer from the strings to the instrument and the top is cut to the proper curve.
Bow Re-hair – The bow is disassembled and cleaned. The worn hair is replaced with quality Mongolian Stallion hair and the screw and eyelet lubricated. The bow is then assembled and adjusted. Bow wraps can be replaced at an additional charge. Black or salt and pepper hair is available upon request.
Cracks and Separation – Cracks and separations are repaired with traditional techniques as well as modern approaches for the finest repair with the least cosmetic change.