Author: Herakles82
Date: 2008-11-08 06:28
Wow Dutchy,
That's quite a bit to chew on and many thanks to you and everyone who has responded. All of you are quite effective resources and I appreciate the time you take to answer my question(s).
I am currently using a Selmer Signet model (plastic) with what appears to be a modified conservatory keywork. My teacher suggests that I stick with at least that type of key system and I agree since I do not want to take steps backward in my playing. The sound tends to be a little high versus the deep, rich tone of the Greenline.
We spoke at length during my last lesson and she suggested that I purchase the Buffet Crampon 4052 (since the Greenline model is out of my price range for now). It has the modified conservatory keywork and the luracast lining to resist cracking. I played her Greenline this week and I had to resist excessive salivating. Very nice sound, indeed!
The only drawback I see resulted from reviews I've read from those who purchased the BC 4052. A couple of them commented that they had small hands and the 4052 complemented their ability to work the keys more effectively. Unfortunately, my fingers while being average length are thicker and that might pose a problem (it seems I stumble over my fingerings because of inadequate spacing for my fingers while playing). Of course I'll have a better idea when the opportunity arises to try out these oboes. I'm still searching and weighing my options.
I have been spending time as you suggested looking at different websites (Arizona State University, IDRS, and some of the helps that are offered with oboe vendors) and gathering as much information as I can. It's amazing how much there is to this instrument (a little, no a lot more complicated than my clarinet) than I realized, but I'm glad that I pursued it. It is fun, just frustrating because of my own impatience with my progress. My teacher says that she is amazed how far I've come in such a short period of time and I need to relax and not be so hard on myself. What can I say - I'm a musical masochist!
Funny you mentioned the Fox family of oboes as I originally intended to try the 300 or 330 because of the way they described their manufacturing process with the plastic oboes, but I really prefer the sound that comes from the wooden models I have had the chance to hear.
Everyone has given me a lot to think about and again I am thankful for the input. It helps greatly.
I am sorry that it's taken me so long to post, but I've just finished my midnight shift for this month and now I am on long weekend until Tuesday. So between surfing the web for oboe stuff and practicing (which can be a bear while doing shiftwork) I squeezed in the time to get back to everyone. Oh, I'd better not forget that my wife has chores for me to do over the weekend as well. SIGH!
Best wishes,
Chuck Cobern
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