Instruments made from African Grenadilla have been carefully aged and treated, then crafted into fine musical instruments. Grenadilla is one of the hardest, most dense and stable woods available and is ideal for manufacturing top quality woodwinds. It also gives the best sound, providing an optimum balance between tonal projection and warm colourful sound.

Here are some tips we recommend to properly “break-in” and maintain Grenadilla instruments:

1. When first playing a new Grenadilla wood instrument, replacement joint or an old instrument that has been left dry for a long time, a gradual playing-in is the best approach. For example, play the instrument for 5 to 10 minutes the first session and then swab out the moisture (including tenons and sockets). Leave the instrument to sit for at least 4 to 6 hours (preferably 1 day) before playing again, this time increasing the length of playing by a few minutes. Repeat this gradual process for the first week to 10 days. After this process is complete, playing the instruments for long periods of time will not cause any radical change in the woods moisture level-and-is-there-for-less-likely-to-cause-problems.
   In dry conditions, a small humidifier placed in the accessories area of the case (available at music-stores)-can-be-beneficial.
   NEVER keep a desiccator in the case, even if you live in a humid environment, as this can damage the moisture balance of the wood.
   
   
2. Avoid playing the instrument when it is very cold to the touch! It needs to warm up to the air temperature of the room or outdoor environment, gradually if possible, before warm air is blown through it. Holding the instrument under a jacket or just opening the case 20 to 30 minutes before playing can be helpful. Avoid playing outdoors and in other extreme climatic conditions if at all possible. Many players keep extra plastic body instruments for use in situations, which may be dangerous for Grenadilla body instruments.
     
3. Frequently removing moisture from the inside is an essential procedure and a “handkerchief” styled swab is generally the most effective. It is important that the swab is free from knots and is not overly tight when pulled through. Any attempt to force a tight swab through should be stopped before the bottom end disappears into the joint so that it can be carefully pulled out. Swabs made from lint free material are essential as lint from swabs can accumulate at the tone holes, spoiling intonation and response. Lint trapped in the undercut can also retain moisture, which can increase the risk of cracking. Remember to remove moisture from the tone holes too, and never carelessly place your instrument with the tone holes facing down. To remove water from tone holes, insert a thin sheet of paper under the pad (cigarette paper), and then blow the water out of the instrument. Never suck air in as this can cause residue moisture to collect inside the-undercut.
    
4. Manufacturers recommend the wood of a new instrument does not need further oiling in the first 12 months (approximately). This can void factory warranty.

We hope you enjoy your new Grenadilla wooden instrument!

Musically yours,

The Melbourne Brass and Woodwind Team.