So, to accurately build this buying guide, I sought advice from instructors to get a better understanding on what they recommend to their students and fellow oboists.
They pointed me in numerous directions online to gather further research. The following guide is made up of hours of inquires and investigation that should prove useful in leading you down the right path. Even if you discover something useful here, I recommend seeking further personal advice from your teacher, if you have one, before making any investment.
Before making that financial leap in purchasing an oboe, consider certain characteristics that a good model must have. Price is a major factor to look at. No matter where the oboe comes from, it is not a cheap instrument, and anything otherwise is usually not a good investment. In fact, it takes plenty of practice to the point that if purchasing for a young student, parents should be sure of their dedication to the oboe before ever buying one as not everyone is cut out to be an oboists.
The end-result, however, is rather rewarding. Below, I have pooled together some of the more basic and important factors to look into when on the search for the right oboe. These factors range across all three model types. Student oboe models have a simplified key system as they are meant to be a starting instrument, not one that is kept five years down the road.
They are basic and made lacking two keys: the left F and low Bb. Still, it is no less challenging for a beginner. It serves to guide them into the right feel of playing the oboe. Intermediate, or step-up, oboe models have a more advanced key system in place. This modified conservatory system consists of a left F and low Bb like the student model, but it also has F resonance keys and an articulated B-C mechanism.
Generally, this system is good for those transitioning from the basics of oboe playing e. It features everything found in the intermediate models, yet it also includes other special features such as a low Bb vent key, a split ring Eb-E trill key, an adjustable Ab-Bb mechanism, and plenty more.
A full conservatory key system is the ultimate investment in high quality tone. As the oboe is a double reed instrument, the craftsmanship and quality of the reed can make or break tone and playability. Although reeds come in three standard types based on strength soft, medium, and hard , try to search for a reed using other factors like level of resistance and such.
Strength is subjective. Beginning oboists may benefit from using softer reeds as they may not have the lung strength to play through anything harder. However, some may do well with a medium one. Professionals may even have a preference for something softer. When it comes to selecting reeds based on strength, that typically boils down to personal tastes and your particular play style.
One factor to look at is tip-opening. A smaller one requires far less air usage in order to vibrate, something a beginner will greatly benefit from. Medium openings still allow for easy vibration, but they usually need some embouchure manipulation for proper playing. A reed such as that can work for intermediate players or those transitioning to advanced instruments.
Larger openings create the greatest resistance, so those types of reeds are more suited for experienced players. Treat your reeds with care and keep them hydrated. Always be aware that things out of your control such as temperature and weather changes can spell disaster for your reed. They are highly fragile due to their delicate construction, so beginners should not be surprised to know they will need to replace their reeds countless of times. Many, if not all, long-time oboists have several reeds on-hand at all times to cycle through.
It is simple enough to purchase pre-made reeds, but many professionals eventually learn how to craft their own. Personally handcrafted reeds are beneficial due to the oboists being able to create reeds based on their specific style of playing.
It is the utmost sign of personalization. If you lack the time or skills to create your own, then there are still numerous of handcrafted reeds high in quality that you can buy. Learning how to make your own though, or even understanding how to modify a pre-made one, can serve you well down the road. Oboes are constructed from a variety of wood material and plastic. A professional oboist will notice these subtle tonal changes, which will lead them to purchase a new instrument, but these may not be disqualifying for a student level player.
Most professional oboists buy a new oboe before any significant change in the bore of their previous oboe has occurred. Therefore, a used professional instrument will have plenty of life left in it for a high school player who is likely playing an average of a few hours a day often much less. Of course, if you can find the holy grail that is a professional oboe purchased and lightly played by a professional player or teacher, before whimsy or section politics made them switch makers, you may find a very affordable and great quality instrument.
For beginning oboe players I recommend renting an inexpensive beginner oboe of good quality as described here. The advantages are twofold. Firstly, this is a much more economically friendly option if the student loses interest or lacks the dedication and commitment required to play the oboe. Secondly, if the student does well, they will outgrow a beginning oboe fairly quickly, probably within the first year or two. A beginner oboe is great for learning the basics but soon a more advanced oboe will be needed in order to continue to grow.
Intermediate oboes do not resell well, so depending on the commitment of the student it may be best to either rent one for a higher fee or purchase a used one to carry them through the next few years. A modified conservatory key system will have a left hand F, an F resonance key, an articulated B-C mechanism, and the low Bb key, but may still be missing the split D key and third octave key.
In general, an appropriate intermediate oboe may be adequate for playing indefinitely at the amateur level in community groups, as a secondary instrument, or even for someone who intends to teach beginner band. If there is any possibility the student would like to pursue a degree in oboe or play professionally, an upgrade to a professional model oboe will be necessary.
If the student is learning advanced audition repertoire but limited by their instrument in tone, volume, or color expression, a professional oboe may be the next step. I listed some recommended professional oboes below, but you can click here for a shortcut. What kind of oboe is appropriate? However, this may be the perfect oboe for a music major focusing on oboe performance at a conservatory.
Keep in mind how long the player will need the oboe. What are their goals? Do they just need an oboe for high school? Are they going to play for fun into adulthood? Are they going to play in their local church group? Are they a hardcore music student at a university?
Will they be joining a professional orchestra? Young oboists move on easily from the student oboe, and the intermediate oboe is a new choice. These oboes possess a Modified Conservatory system having some of the trill keys left F, low Bb, B natural-C articulation, and F resonance but lacking some major keys.
Just like the student oboe, it is forged using high-density resin or Grenadilla wood. However, purchasing a new one is the best option. As the name implies, this oboe is used after leaving the intermediate stage. They are full conservatory system oboes which possess the primary keys split E and most often the 3rd octave necessary for an orchestra, chamber or a solo performance. These oboes are commonly made from Grenadilla wood. However, other woods such as cocobolo, Kingwood, violet wood, can be used.
With this knowledge, it is safe to shop for your oboe considering your price range or preference. Are you moving towards the professional stage gradually? This is the best intermediate oboe for you. This oboe possesses a modified conservatory system with semi automatic octave keys, and for an intermediate oboe, that is quite fascinating. Playing oboe could not get any better! With the left-hand F key, fork F resonance keys and the unique semi-automatic octave keys, the sound produced from this modern oboe is delightful and will put all other natural sounds to shame.
The sound is the major purpose of an oboe. The YOB series is made from the finest seasoned grenadilla wood which has been aged to perfection. Crowning the class of this oboe is the silver-plated nickel keys running along the intermediate oboe.
So, now you can enjoy beautiful sounds while fingering on skilfully crafted keys. This F key intermediate oboe is suitable for any performance.
The sound produced from the oboe and the craft can meet up with your artistic expectations. Whether it is a solo, playing with a rock or jazz band or in an orchestra or chamber scene, the intermediate YOB series oboe is a great choice for you.
The craft of this oboe is exquisite, and it is affordable. Do you want to reach a professional scale at the very beginning of your oboe learning journey? The Schiller elite has you covered. The features on this oboe are out of this world. The oboe is designed with several keys such as; the resonance keys, the low Bb, Ab to Bb trill keys, left-hand F key, and the shocking left-hand C to D trill.
The left-hand C to D trill keys are shocking because these keys are normally on the right and this twist creates an alternative. Schiller Elite comes with a case to preserve the oboe and elongates the life span of the instrument.
The twist in the oboe design might seem to make the instrument hard to handle, however, with the alternative the oboe is easy to play. This makes it fasters to master keys which improve performance. A wonderful musical piece can be played beautifully with this instrument. The Schiller Elite is not dependent on what level you have gotten to in playing the oboe. It is ideal for professionals and even better for a student who aspires to become world-class oboists.
Did you decide to go green? Do you want an oboe to fit that status? Your search is over. The buffet crampon G model is what you need.
The model is a green line musical instrument. These instruments are made from wood that is recovered and recycled. The recycled wood has a peculiar composition which makes the oboe resistant to temperature and humidity. Buffet crampon model is could be regarded as a gold medal, it is the holy grail of most Greenline musical instruments, and it has maintained this reputation over the years.
The oboe is a full conservatory system, and if you do not know what it entails, here it is. The instrument stands to last for several years, and the pitch and tune are accurate. Every played piece on the model is an experience, and it is not one to be missed. For all aspiring oboist, this Ammons oboe comes with the most amazing starter pack. The C-key oboe with a Bakelite wood body and cupro-nickel keys plated with silver comes with its stylish leather carrier.
In the beginning phase of learning to play the oboe, you are thought the proper care for your instrument, and this oboe package makes it much easier. The oboe comes with a reed which has the gentlest feel on your skin.
This user-friendly Reed makes it easy to play the Ammon oboe. Still in the pack are; cleaning swabs, lubricant, a pair of gloves, a screwdriver, a leather case, and a comprehensive instruction manual. With all these available to you, you can enjoy the oboe learning experience and care for your oboe with ease. Ammoon oboe was created with a metallic mouth piece, a needle spring of high quality, and a solid rock system. The joining parts of the Ammon oboe are made from soft wood, and the oboe has a great leather packing.
All these features ensure the longevity of the oboe. The brilliant sound of this student oboe is magical. You will fall in love with the instrument over and over after playing this oboe.
Grenadilla wood is used in making most oboe, just like this intermediate oboe. However, the makers of the Selmer model F took this into consideration and created an oboe of the high-quality. The density of the wood is great making the instrument easy to handle.
The F model is recommended for an oboist transitioning from the student phase. For upcoming oboist in middle school or high school, this is the right oboe. The modified conservatory system of this oboe is ranged down to a low Bb dispensing the most joyous sounds you can ever imagine. The Selmer model F was crafted with, Ab to Bb and left-hand C to D trill keys and each key is plated with silver giving it a more sophisticated look compared to normal high-density resin student oboe.
Looks matter but the sound from your F model will be distinctive from another oboe, and you can trust that sound to be enchanting. You do not have to be in high school to get this oboe; it is suitable for all age types if you are prepared to become a master oboist. The craftsmanship displayed in this oboe is impressive for a student oboe. The oboe is very easy to handle, and with it, you can create some of the finest sounds in the woodwind family. A good stand will help avoid these situations.
Some lower profile stands conveniently fold up and store in your oboe case, making transport easier. View oboe stands. When buying a sling, pay special attention to the quality and construction of the hook. As these hold the weight of your instrument they are particularly important. This is an ideal oboe for younger beginners owing to the lightweight construction and reduced keywork. Made from resin, this model is robust and durable and has been a favourite within the UK education sector since its introduction.
Because of this it only plays to low B, making it only suitable up to Grade 3 level. View more details. An updated version of the widely used Howarth B, the S10 model has become undoubtedly one of the most popular student oboes. The JP is a natural step-up from less advanced models, such as the JP and similar. The Howarth S20 easily meets the needs of amateur playing to Grade 8.
While not full keywork or dual system it is a natural step-up from the Howarth S10 model, featuring some more advanced keys and additional trills along with a bigger bore, giving an improved tone. While similarly priced to the Howarth S20, this student oboe from French company Fossati has a lot more features; a thick wooden body, dual system and almost full gillet. Specification-wise, this model has all the features that you would normally associate with an advanced oboe, but a student price-point.
Although your first oboe may be made from a composite material, it is worthwhile being aware of the pros and cons associated with wooden models. Wooden Instruments are widely accepted to produce a better tone and sound when compared to instrument constructed from more synthetic, manmade materials such as ABS Resin and Ebonite however with this come additional maintenance requirements.
As a living material, wood can swell, warp and change shape, especially with the introduction of moisture which is unavoidable when playing woodwind instruments. It is also common for players to experience stiff joints as the instrument swells slightly. Wooden instruments will also be more sensitive to heat and temperature changes.
Rapid changes can lead to cracks in the body. This can be caused by accidently leaving your instrument near a radiator or somewhere similar. With the additional tonal benefits of wooden instrument come an increased responsibility and requirement for more maintenance.
This is why in many cases, an ABS or ebonite clarinet for students and first time players is recommended. Several schemes are in place to support new players as they start their journey to learn the oboe. Our instrument hire scheme enables students to hire an oboe at an affordable monthly cost with a low minimum hire period of just 3 months. Should you then wish to purchase your instrument, our hire scheme allows a maximum of 6 months hire charges to be deducted from the overall cost.
This is a fantastic way to get started on a limited budget! Hire an oboe. If students are attending a UK based state school it is usually possible to purchase the instrument through the school benefiting from their VAT exempt status. Students must be in full time education and receiving music tuition. It is possible to combine both our instrument hire scheme and then to purchase the instrument through the school via the AIPS scheme for maximum benefit.
Find out more about AIPS.
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