Doublereed Archive - Posting 000030.txt from 2004/12

From: PhilFrei@-----.com
Subj: [DR-L] Left thumb position on oboe
Date: Fri, 10 Dec 2004 15:22:18 -0500

Mini-survey...

I am curious how other oboists position the left thumb while playing. I've
always had a bit of a problem with intervals rising from the lower octave to the
first octave key notes. I think the octave key is opening slightly late and
causing the leading edge of the higher note to have a bit of a thunk in it.

Up to now, I've been placing my thumb on the oboe body, in contact with the
octave key and rolling to open the key. I've started experimenting with leaving
the thumb on the octave key itself, all the time. It feels odd and insecure,
but there does seem to be enough stability to close all the keys with the left
hand fingers, and I do seem to be able to get the key closed a little quicker
and with a smoother sounding interval.

Do most folks just learn to cope with the rolling thumb technique (perhaps
anticipating with the thumb a bit to make sure the key gets opened)? Or do
people leave the thumb off the oboe (or gently resting on the octave key)? Or is
there another alternative?

Thanks in advance for replies.

Phil Freihofner
Albany, CA

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