Back to School: Picking Up Your Woodwind Instrument After a Break

28th August 2025

As the new school year begins, the music bags are being dusted off and practice routines are starting up again. Whether you’re a student returning back to school or an adult player getting back into the swing after some time away, picking up your Woodwind instrument after a break can seem a challenge, but easing yourself (and your instrument!) back in carefully makes all the difference.

A closeup of a person playing the oboe, indoors

Step One: Handle with Care – Assembly Matters

If your instrument has been sitting quietly in its case for a while, the first thing to do is assemble it correctly. It’s easy to forget careful details if you have not played for a while, and careful assembly protects delicate keys and joints, and helps avoid costly repairs.

We’ve put together simple videos on how to assemble instruments correctly (playlist linked below). These are great not just for players, but also for parents who may be helping younger musicians at the start of term.

Assemble carefully: Avoid forcing joints together. A little cork grease on tenons can help.
Check alignment: Make sure the all of the joints of the instrument are lined up correctly before tightening screws or rods.
Parents helping younger players: Our assembly videos (playlist linked below) are handy resources if you’re supporting your child in getting started again.

Flutist, young girl playing the flute, hands, fingers on keys closeup, children playing transverse side blow flute, detail shot, classical music, wind instrument performance player up close abstract.

Step Two: Rebuilding the Lip and Stamina

One of the biggest challenges after a break is the embouchure – the muscles around the lips and face that can tire easily if not used regularly. Don’t be discouraged if you feel wobbly at first. Both beginners and returning adults experience this!

Start small: 10-15 minutes of focused playing is plenty in the first few days.
Long tones & easy scales: Focus on sound, air support, and control rather than tricky passages.
Take breaks before fatigue: This prevents bad habits and speeds recovery.
Check your reeds or setup: Old reeds, tired pads, or misaligned joints can make things harder. Fresh reeds and a well-maintained instrument will boost your confidence. It’s often a good idea to drop down half a reed strength for a short while if you are struggling with your usual set-up.

Step Three: Don’t Forget the Essentials

Before rehearsals and lessons get underway, it’s worth checking your case for the basics:

Reeds (if applicable): Always have 2–3 good reeds ready to play.
Swab/pull-through: Essential for keeping the instrument clean and healthy.
Reed case or storage: Helps reeds last longer and keeps them safe.
Cork grease: Important to have to hand when assembling the instrument.
Spare Pencil: Not instrument specific but always a musician’s essential!

For parents of younger players, having these items sorted before term starts helps avoid mid-rehearsal panics. For adult learners, it’s simply a way to keep playing hassle-free and enjoyable.

Step Four: Workshop Check-Up – Start Term on the Right Note

Even the most dedicated practice is tough if the instrument isn’t in good shape. After a break, you might notice:

Sticking pads
Leaks
Loose screws or corks

Our Dawkes Workshop can give your instrument a health check before the term gets too busy. Booking your instrument in now means you’ll return to playing with confidence, knowing the setup won’t hold you back.

Step Five: Enjoy the Rediscovery

It doesn’t matter what stage of your musical journey you are at, remember: music is about enjoyment. Choose pieces you love, play duets with friends or family, and savour the unique voice of your instrument. The best part of going back to playing? Reconnecting with the joy of making music.

Final Thoughts:

A little preparation goes a long way – organise your reeds and accessories, book your instrument into the workshop if needed, and ease yourself in gently. That way, you’ll hit the ground running and make the most of the new term.

Check out our ‘How To Assemble’ instrument videos in the playlist below: