How to Store an Alto Saxophone

Storing your alto saxophone properly during long periods of disuse will help prolong the life of the instrument. There are several variables to consider when deciding on a location and environment to protect your alto saxophone. While the alto saxophone is resilient and less prone to warping than a violin or piano, a careful assessment of the saxophone and case will ensure that you have taken all of the necessary precautions to preserve your investment.

Step 1 Inspect the alto saxophone case for any holes, cracks or tears in the internal lining and outside of the case. If you do not have a hard case for your saxophone, you should invest in one. A case with a damaged exterior should go to a shop for repair or you can use duct tape to cover any damage. If the internal liner shows damage, find a soft cloth with which to wrap your instrument.

Step 2 Clean the saxophone using your normal cleaning routine and then leave the instrument out to dry. Wrap the saxophone with plastic wrap to keep the cork from drying out and cracking. Wrap duct tape around the plastic wrap to ensure a complete seal. Be careful to avoid taping the actual instrument, as it will leave residue.

Step 3 Place each part of the instrument into the appropriate section of the hard case. If the case doesn’t securely hold each part of the saxophone in place, use small towels or cloth to secure the instrument in place.

Step 4 Close the case and encase it in plastic wrap. This is to prevent dust, insects and other foreign matter from getting into the case. Wrap the case on the top and bottom with duct tape to ensure the plastic wrap stays secure.

Step 5 Insert the case into a trash bag and tie off the ends. This provides an extra layer of protection against possible water damage and harsh environments.

Step 6 Find a box that is just big enough to hold the wrapped alto saxophone. Place the wrapped instrument inside of the box and shut the box with duct tape or mailing tape and label the box.

Step 7 Store the instrument in a temperature-controlled room. You want to avoid leaving it in an environment that gets too hot or too cold. Room temperature is the preferred temperature to store your instrument. Avoid placing the instrument in the garage, in a car or near sources of water.

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