Lisa’s Band Instrument Repair
Frequently Asked Questions
F.A.Q.
Boise Band Instrument Repair
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you work on my instrument?
I work on all brass and woodwind instruments, including piccolos, flutes, clarinets, bass clarinets, saxophones (alto, tenor, soprano, and baritone), oboes, bassoons, trumpets, trombones (tenor and f-attachment/bass), french horns (single and double), baritone/euphoniums, and tubas.
Do I need to be local to Idaho for you to work on my instrument?
No, you don't. I work on instruments from all over the United States. As one of the very few license Straubinger experts, I have worked on flutes from Washington, Oregon, Utah, Arizona, and more. If you would like me to work on your flute, simply mail it to Boise Band Instrument Repair 8075 Caswell St Boise, ID 83714 and I will get it taken care of for you!
How often should my instrument be brought in for repair?
It is a personal decision. I believe that if the instrument is functioning well, there is no need for it to be brought in for repair. If the keys or valves are sluggish or sticky, it may be time to bring it in for a cleaning, oiling and check up. If you have an important performance or audition and you want to be confident that your instrument is functioning well, then it might be a good idea to bring it in.
How long will it take for my instrument to be repaired?
This is a difficult question to answer. Each repair can vary in length of time necessary to do the job properly. There can be unforeseen problems that can add significant time to the repair. I will always be concerned with doing a high quality repair over doing many repairs quickly that are not repaired properly and will more than likely need to come back in for additional work. I try to be aware of customers special needs for performances or for school and get everyone taken care of as quickly as possible.
A part has broken off my instrument, now what?
If a part or brace has come unsoldered, it can be soldered back on. If a key breaks, it will need to be brazed of silver soldered back together. Brazing is much stronger than soft solder. A key gets a good deal of use and pressure so it requires a stronger connection than just a brace holding two pieces together. If a part may need to be replaced in the future, that is another reason for using soft solder rather than brazing wire. The part will be much easier to remove and replace.
If I am cleaning a brass instrument, what temperature should the water be?
The water should only be lukewarm. If the water is too hot, it can damage the lacquer on the instrument.
I cleaned my trumpet and now it won't make and sound and I can't get air to blow through it, what is wrong?
When the instrument was put back together, the pistons were most likely put back in incorrectly. The pistons and the casings are numbered 1,2 and 3. 1 will always be in the casing nearest the mouthpiece and 3 will always be in the casing nearest the bell. The holes in the piston need to line up with the ports in the casing. If not, then the air cannot flow through the instrument properly.
Talk With Lisa to Get Started Today!
I have a Bachelors degree in saxophone performance from the University of the Witwatersrand. I play in the Treasure Valley Concert Band. I have worked as a Band Instrument Repair Technician in the Treasure Valley for over 20 years with Dunkley Music and am now working for myself from my office on Caswell Street in Boise. I offer free pickup and delivery to Treasure Valley schools, and I want to note that I value student and professional musicians’ repair needs equally.
What They’re Saying
Customer Testimonials
“Lisa is an outstanding technician in every regard. Her technical expertise, meticulous attention to detail, and outstanding customer service is of the highest professional level. I recommend her most highly and without reservation.”
“Point blank–The Treasure Valley is fortunate to haec a technician at Lisa’s caliber. Not only is Lisa fully trained, experienced, and Straubinger certified, she is conscientious and professional.
As a flautist, I perform in a number of ensembles and Lisa has always serviced my instruments in the quickest time possible. Thank you, Lisa!”
“Lisa is amazing! I had an emergency with my flute and she worked me in quickly, fixed it, and it played beautifully. Lisa pays attention to every detail and I completely trust her to repair my flute. I will never take my flute to anyone else. Lisa is the best!”
Ultrasonic Cleaning Tank
I use an ultrasonic cleaning tank to demolish the tough deposits that form on the inside and outside of band instruments. These tanks are industrial quality, and work hard on the deposits while leaving your instrument in pristine working condition. I'm a lifelong instrument repair expert, and I'm ready to help.
Some of the Work I’ve Done…
