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Re: Adding extra keys

Author: Chris P
Date: 2008-12-14 23:57

With UK spec oboes (especially those built by UK makers and also German and some Italian), most will have a low B-C link, so closing the low B key will automatically close the low C key along with it. All Howarth oboes have had this fitted since the mid-'90s (when it was added to the S10B which previously didn't have it at all), the pro models have it fitted in such a way that it can be fully disengaged if the player prefers it without.

But most French (and French-style) oboes won't have it at all - only French (and Yamaha) oboes built to German spec will have it along with all the extra keywork weighing down a German spec oboe.

Some Lorees were built to UK spec, but nowadays Loree, Marigaux, Buffet, Fossati, Rigoutat, etc. are generally supplied as French spec (same as US spec), so will normally need to have a thumbplate fitted (though some makers offer it as an option) and a B-C link is only fitted at the customer's request. This is a link with an adjusting screw fitted to the C key so the low B key will close it. On some oboes due to the pillar placement, it may be a tight fit http://www.clarinetperfection.com/galleryclar/Keywork/CP2/16.jpg, though makers that fit it as standard on some instruments may accommodate by moving the middle pillar for both low B and C keys lower down the joint so there's more room for the link.

Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.

Post Edited (2008-12-14 23:58)

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