SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR STRING PLAYERS!

Are you bringing a violin on the trip? A viola? A cello? Here are a couple of things that seasoned string players suggest for prepping your instrument for air travel:

• Even though the cargo bay and the the passenger cabin are both pressurized, air pressure changes do occur (think about your ears popping when we land), so we need to take precautions. Here's what the experts say:
• Violin and viola players should loosen the strings at least 1/2 step, and loosen the bow tension as well. It is also helpful to pack some clothing around the instrument (socks, light shirts, etc) to keep the instrument from shifting about (professionals actually use bubble wrap, but clothing you're already bringing with you works just fine).
• Cello players should loosen the strings between 1/2 and 1 full step to take pressure off the bridge, and also loosen the bow tension. The same advice for utilizing light clothing to pack around your instrument applies to cellos as well, to keep them secure from any jostling about. Make sure to put padding to support the bridge and the fingerboard. FRAGILE labels will be attached to all cello cases.
• Violins and violas will come on board as carry-ons.  Cellos will be gate-checked, where you will carry your cello onto the jetway and then leave it at the door of the plane, and baggage handlers will hand-carry it down to the cargo bay. When we de-board, your cello will be at the door waiting for you.