Care and Maintenance

Violin, Viola, Cello, or Bass

Assembly

1. Place your case flat on the floor or a sturdy, level surface.
2. Make sure that the case is right-side-up. This is usually indicated by the logo being on the top and the handle is on the bottom. The latches of the case usually flip up when opening.

Note: Some cases may include a zipper to secure the case rather than a latch. In this case, unzip the case.

3. Take your instrument out of the case.
4. Put on the shoulder rest (violin and viola) or extend the endpin (cello and bass).
5. Take out the bow from the case and after tightening it, rosin the bow.
6. Tune the strings.

Note: If you have a cello or bass, use an endpin rest to prevent the upright instrument from slipping and to prevent damage to the floor.

After Use Care

1. Using a microfiber cloth, wipe under and on the fingerboard and by the bridge area to remove rosin dust.
2. Using a different microfiber cloth, wipe any fingerprints from the body of the instrument.
3. Using a microfiber cloth, wipe under the horse hair of the bow to remove rosin dust.
4. Loosen the bow and secure it to the upper side of the case, horse hair down and frog to the right.
5. Remove the shoulder rest and store it in a compartment inside the case if it fits (violin and viola) or push back the endpin (cello and bass).
6. Store the instrument in the case, securing it properly at the neck and drape the slip over the instrument.
7. Securely latch the case shut.

Note: Some cases may include a zipper to secure the case rather than a latch. In this case, zip the case.

Note: Ensure that the instrument is stored in a proper environment out of extreme temperature and humidity levels. Avoid leaving or storing your instrument in hot or cold cars, attics, basements, and garages.

Note: Avoid placing excess items such as music books in the case as the extra weight can cause damage overtime.

Regular Maintenance

1. Avoid wearing perfumes on your neck and lotion on your hand while playing to prevent transferring oils and other substances to your instrument.
2. Check for seam openings/cracks in the body of the instrument regularly.
3. Check to ensure that the chin rest is secure and tight on the body of the instrument.
4. Watch for warping of the bridge.
5. Check for unwinding, wear, or nicks on the strings, which is a sign that they may need to be replaced.
6. Ensure that string pegs are easy to turn but hold their place.
7. If using a non-sponge shoulder rest, make sure that any metal legs or parts that can scratch the instrument are in good condition and not exposed.
8. Check that the bow hair is not sparse and is not dirty (by the frog). If it is, the bow is due for a rehair.
9. Replace crumbling rosin and vacuum any of the broken pieces out of case compartments.