In the cold and dry winter, proper maintenance of suona, a traditional wooden wind instrument, is the key to maintain its good timbre and extend its service life. Because changes in temperature and humidity can cause the wood to contract or expand, which affects the tightness and intonation of the instrument, it is particularly important to take proper maintenance measures.

Temperature control

Try to avoid putting the suona in extreme temperature environments, such as directly near heating equipment or exposure to cold wind outside. The ideal storage environment should be maintained at a constant temperature, the best temperature range is about 20-25 degrees Celsius. When moving from a cold place to a warm room, the suona should be allowed to adapt to the new environment for a while before being taken out to reduce the damage caused by the temperature difference.

Humidity regulation

The air is usually drier in winter, which may cause cracking or deformation of the suona's wooden parts. You can consider using a humidifier to increase the humidity in the room, and the ideal humidity should be about 40%-60%. It is also possible to purchase a small humidifier specifically designed to moisturize the inside of the instrument and placed in the instrument case to help maintain the appropriate humidity level.

Cleaning and maintenance

After each performance, the saliva and dirt inside and outside the suona should be cleaned in time to prevent bacterial growth and corrosion. Gently wipe the outer surface with a soft, clean cloth and clean the inner passage with a special cleaning tool. But be careful not to wipe too much or too hard to avoid damage to the paint or structure.

Periodic inspection

Regular professional inspection of the suona is very necessary, especially before entering the winter. Professional technicians are able to identify potential problems and deal with them in a timely manner, such as adjusting the position of the whistle, repairing possible cracks, etc., to ensure that the instrument is in top condition.

Proper storage

When not in use, the suona should be stored in its original box or other special protective case, away from direct sunlight and moisture. If you do not intend to use it for a long time, you can put some moisture-proof bags inside the box to absorb excess moisture, and pay attention to timely ventilation.