3 Things To Consider When Buying The Oboe Instrument

By Author: josephwhite176
Total Articles: 214
Comment this article

The oboe is a delicate and finely tuned musical instrument. Therefore, as a responsible oboist, periodic adjustments are absolutely crucial. So, when planning to buy this woodwind gear, you should find a reliable shop that provides you with best-in-class and timely after-care.

Also, do not forget to buy a suitable Oboe Insurance policy for the overall protection of your musical instrument. It ensures financial safety and peace of mind. However, before you buy an oboe, do remember to consider the following pointers to make the best buy.

1. The German and French Styles

The oboe is available in two basic styles: French and German.

In the 19th century, the German variant was mainstream and widely used. However, these days, it is regarded as a special woodwind mainly used by Viennese performers, for example, the Vienna Philharmonic. Therefore, the German style of the oboe is also known as the Wiener oboe. These types of musical instruments produce rich, bright, and nasal-sounding tones. These woodwinds are the evolved version ...
... of the 18th century's Baroque oboe (a three-keyed gear).a

In today's time, the French-style woodwind has become mainstream. Designed and developed in the nineteenth century, the French style of oboe was called the Conservatoire style. The reason - it was embraced by the Conservatoire de Paris. Owing to the key system of this oboe, it became widespread. Its key mechanism allows the player to play fast songs at high volume.

If you are a beginner, it is advisable to get started with the Conservatoire style even if you like or prefer the Viennese timbre.

2. Fully-Automatic and Semi-Automatic

An oboe comes in two systems - Fully and Semi-Automatic. Whether an oboe is former or latter depends on the octave key's operation. Both these mechanisms come with their share of pros and cons. Although you can buy any variant you want, industry experts recommend the semi-automatic one for beginners.

While playing a semi-automatic oboe, the oboist must work with the first and second keys. However, as far as fingering is concerned, it offers a high level of flexibility, and therefore, this type of gear is widely used across the globe.

When it comes to the fully-automatic system, manipulating the oboe is easy as the second-octave lever is absent. However, beginners are likely to get off-key because of difficult adjustments.

3. Grenadilla or Rosewood

In general, people assume that oboes will look like black tubes. However, the oboe is basically made up of two types of woods - grenadilla and rosewood.

Clarinets are also made up of grenadilla. The main characteristics of a woodwind made from grenadilla - are the heft, relative density, and far-projecting sound. Therefore, it is a suitable option for large gig spaces.

Another type of lumber used for crafting oboe is rosewood. It is brown. The sound it produces is soft and harmonizes properly with other woodwind musical instruments. It also gels up well with string gears. Although the sound is not far sounding, the tones of this equipment are distinct, making it a good option for chamber music.

So, these are some of the most important things to keep in mind while choosing the oboe. Considering these will help you choose the most suitable product.

Do not ignore proper insurance coverage!

After going through these pointers, you have probably got an idea about the oboe and the factors to count on when buying one. Make sure to consider these when purchasing your first woodwind to ensure cost-effectiveness and quality. As already told, you should not ignore the importance of Oboe Insurance too. It is not a mere piece of paper that you buy for the sake of your gear. It could be your savior in unforeseen times. It could take care of your finances if your gear is damaged, stolen, or lost, and you are left with no option. So, make sure to get your copy of insurance right after you buy your woodwind instrument and keep learning and making good and soulful music.