Beginning Band: How to Care for the Euphonium

Class Notes thumbnail for a Beginning Band lesson. Includes euphonium player Jacob Grewe of the Minnesota Winds.
Evan Clark | MPR

Age Range: Late Elementary, Middle School

Learning Objective: Students will demonstrate proper care and technique when assembling their instrument and putting it away. 

Total Video Time: 4:58

Download this Free Lesson Plan

Download an Instrument Care Card

INTRODUCTION

Euphonium player Jacob Grewe will walk you through the basics of putting together your euphonium and taking care of it.

STEP-BY-STEP instructions

  • Take your instrument from its case, grab your mouthpiece, and insert it into the lead pipe.

  • Give the mouthpiece a quarter turn to secure it.

  • Make sure your slides and valves are moving smoothly. Grease or oil as needed.

  • To grease a slide, remove it, wipe it clean, and apply a small amount of slide grease to the ends of each side. Reinsert it and slide it back and forth.

  • To oil a piston valve, unscrew the cap and remove it carefully. Apply a small amount of valve oil on each part. Reinsert the valve so the guide is lined up and screw it back on until it is snug.

  • After practicing, empty water through the spit valves and slides as needed.

  • Remove the mouthpiece and wipe as needed. Secure the instrument back in the case.

Print this and keep it in your case or band folder!

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