Author: Bryanwalker
Date: 2010-10-10 15:44
1) 19 Newark, De USA
2) Currently a student at the University of Delaware.
3) Howarth XL 5543 Grenadilla. Formerly owned by Richard Woodhams, I bought the oboe 6 months ago.
4) 440 and 442. I play in 2 different orchestras requiring two different pitches... I know a nightmare. But to tell a secret. I tune the 442 orchestra low...
5) I make my own reeds. I am currently doing alot of experimenting with different staples, but generally my reeds are about 70mm long. Stevens 2's work well with the XL but I find the opening of the staples are too big, so I have trouble getting the reeds to seal using a Brannen X shape.
6) I was playing in a masterclass for Joe Robinson and the guys from howarth were there exhibiting oboes. I picked this one off the table and they told me Woodhams played it for 6 months, so of course I was interested in it. After I howarth let me try it for about 3 weeks, I fell in love and sent them a check.
7) This oboe has fulfilled my expectations to the highest level. The oboe is one of the most free blowing instruments I have every played. The sound is full, yet clear! The Mechanism is ergonomically very comfortable. Intonation is spot on and you can really feel how even the oboe is when you play it. The best thing about the Howarths, the C#'s are not stuffy or hissy sounding, they are crystal clear. Oh, and they are up to pitch... Try that with a Loree...
8) I will most undoubtedly try other brands in the future, I am always looking for something better. Currently I fed-up with Loree. I played a Loree for 5 years before getting this oboe. I find the vast majority of Loree's stuffy and resistant and the tone is shallow and cloudy. I have recently let 3 players, who play Loree, try my oboe. They all expressed my oboe was sensational and expressed how much they want a Howarth.
If any of you have additional questions or would like to know my. Email me at Bmwski0507@aol.com
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