Playing near a sea

[sirisobhakya]

This may be just my paranoia, but does playing near a sea (on a beach) have any effect on corrosion of brass instruments (and other wind instruments)? Any precaution or special cleaning to do afterward?

I have never played near a sea or saltwater source before; the nearest point I have played is around 20 km away from it, but I will have to play on a beach this August.

[Doug Elliott]

I've done it and didn't worry about it all all. Just hope it's not windy and blowing sand.

[Xcomunic8d]

I live in Hawaii. My house is under 5 miles from ocean.
A quick visit should be no problem. I’d recommend rinsing off, wiping and spraying off with your preferred cleaner (soap and water) wipe it down to get water off. Idea is to keep saltwater off your lacquer and brass. If it’s blowing hard or waves are blasting I’d clean inside of my horn too.

I don’t think Instrument Brass is the same as marine grade brass (has tin in it). Marine grade is much more robust to saltwater. Regardless one day should be no issue, unless you submerge your horn put it in the case and leave it here for 10 years.

My horn has been here 12 years (cased when not in use) and no issues etc for my lacquer getting some darkish pit marks on the bell. Probably from ambient humidity of island and case…

You should be fine, just clean well afterwards…inside and out if the wind is blowing.

[SimmonsTrombone]

I've lived less than a mile from the ocean for more than 30-years. I see no problem, though I have never gotten my horns wet with seawater.

[baBposaune]

I've done it and didn't worry about it all all. Just hope it's not windy and blowing sand.

This is the only concern. Fine particles of sand on your slide are no fun. Feel free to enjoy everything else!