As a musician, you know that your instruments are your life. They’re the reason you got into music in the first place and make you feel alive when you play them.
The good news is that most musical instruments are made to last a long time, but there are still things that can cause damage to them over time.
If you want to keep your instrument safe and sound, it’s important to understand some common things that can damage it over time. Stick with this post, as it will walk you through the different causes of damage in an instrument.
Scratches and dents
Scratches and dents are one of the most common damages to musical instruments. They can be caused by mishandling, dropping, or improper storage. Most of these damages can be repaired, but it is not always easy.
If you want to avoid having scratches and dents on your instrument, here are two tips you can follow:
- Don’t touch the instrument with your bare hands. You may think it’s okay to touch your instrument as long as you’re wearing gloves, but most people don’t realize there is still a risk of getting oil from your hands onto the instrument.
The oil from your hands can be transferred to the instrument via sweat and cause it to attract dust or dirt, which will eventually cause scratches.
- Do not put any hard object on your instrument because it can damage it severely over time, if not immediately. Even if you have a case for your instrument, do not place anything hard inside it, like books or something, because they can scratch it easily!
Broken strings
Most instruments have at least one string that breaks during normal use, and many musicians will break more than one string while playing. The most common causes of broken strings include the following.
- Excessive tension
- Damp environments
- Poor quality or old strings
- Improper tuning techniques
- Incorrectly installed bridges or frets
Lack of maintenance
Many musicians are unaware that their instruments need regular maintenance, but it’s true. Even if you’re not in a band or performing regularly, your instrument should still be checked out by a professional once every few months.
One important thing you can do to protect your instrument is to keep it out of direct sunlight and heat, which can cause cracks and other damage. Also, ensure you wipe down the instrument after each use with a soft cloth and some mild detergent to remove any dirt or sweat buildup.
Finally, check regularly for any signs of wear, like loosening screws or strings that need replacing. It’s easy enough to learn how to do these things yourself if you aren’t sure how!
Improper storage
When instruments are not properly stored, they can get mildewed and rusty, which can ruin the sound quality and cause them to break.
Most instruments, like violins, are delicate, so keeping them safe is important when they’re not being used. If you don’t have a proper place to store your instrument, many options are available.
You can buy a bam violin case or bag for your instrument online or at any music store. In addition to protecting your instrument from moisture and dust during transport, cases also provide a space where you can keep extra strings and other accessories that come with your instrument.
Conclusion
Musical instruments can be damaged in many ways. That’s why you must treat your instrument as fragile and always handle it with care. If you take care of your instrument and play it regularly, it will last a long time. If you don’t take care of it or play it regularly, there will be more problems. If you’re worried about your instrument, check with a professional before you take any drastic measures.