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Doublereed Archive - Posting 000032.txt from 2004/12

From: Sameer Al-Abdullah <simsim29@-----.com>
Subj: Re: [DR-L] Left thumb position on oboe
Date: Fri, 10 Dec 2004 15:57:04 -0500

very interesting question Phil. I actually had to pull out my oboe and
actually watch myself how I do it. It's just one of those things you
dont think about....you just do it. But anyways here is what i found
myself doing:
my left thumb is actually in touch with the body of the oboe but not
touching the key at all. And when I go to higher notes my thumb just
"moves" to the key and push it open. I"m fine this way and never had
any problem. Moreover, I feel more balanced and in control of the oboe
since my left thumb whilst resting about an inch below the octave key
is actually supporting the upper joint. I tried leaving my thumb free
in the air just beneath the octave key but felt like i was gonna drop
the oboe.
I know some others who actually do the same way i do BUT the thumb is
actually touching the octave key. Thus all they have to do is "roll"
back the thumb and there you go. I find this ok too but after a while
the skin just on the edge of my nail gets sore!!!

my 2 cents

On Fri, 10 Dec 2004 15:21:12 EST, PhilFrei@-----.com> wrote:
> 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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>

--
Sameer Al-Abdullah

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