Lute Care: Preserving Your Instrument Through Humidity Management.pdf

The fragility of historical lutes highlights the importance of proper care for modern instruments. Key maintenance principles include:

1. Humidity Control:

- Extreme humidity changes pose the greatest threat. Aim for 60% to 80% relative humidity, avoiding both extreme dryness (below 45%) and high levels (above 90%).
- Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity and humidifiers if necessary in dry conditions.
- Avoid opening windows on frosty days as it can lower relative humidity significantly.

2. Prevent Cracks:

- Address cracks promptly, covering them with thin plastic tape for minor issues.
- A loose bar inside the lute requires immediate repair to prevent buzzing and tuning problems.
- Cracks around the bridge, affected by string tension, necessitate immediate repair.

3. Safe Storage & Transport:

- Store lutes in their cases when not played.
- Lay lutes on their strings if temporarily placed elsewhere, avoiding leaning them against walls due to their shape.
- Be cautious transporting large instruments like theorbos through narrow spaces or confined areas.

4. Instrument Finishes:

- Avoid using oil or wax polishes which can penetrate wood and cause dulling.
- Clean dirty lutes with a damp cloth and mild detergent, then dry thoroughly.
- Major finish defects should be addressed by a specialist. Lute tops are traditionally unvarnished or sealed with oil, wax, or egg white.

5. Pegs:

- Avoid getting pegs out of their holes. Each peg has its designated hole.
- Numbering pegs can help prevent confusion and ensure proper placement.