The Oboe BBoard

The Oboe BBoard The C4 standard

New Topic | Go to Top | Go to Topic | Search | Help/Rules | Smileys/Notes | Log In

Re: kooiman thumb rest

Author: Anita2000
Date: 2011-01-02 21:11

Hi All,

I began using a Phred (the stick support) and Sami (a device attaching to a belt allowing the Phred to be used standing up as well as while sitting down) at music college to alleviate pain caused by instability of the ligaments in my wrists. Less than a year ago, my teacher suggested I try a Kooiman. Having used both a Phred and Kooiman herself she believed this change of equipment might help me.

I bought the more expensive version of the Kooiman, made of metal, as it has many more possible positions than the nine or so of the plastic version. Essentially, the metal Kooiman has four points that can be adjusted. There are two points on the arm of the Kooiman that swivel, allowing it to be set to your personal requirements. The arm of the Kooiman can be adjusted according to how spread out you want the thumb rest to sit.

When I had the metal plate for the Kooiman fitted to my oboe, I was told that if I didn't get on with it the holes could be filled, but that this may change the tone of the oboe slightly (adding extra holes for the plate could also do this!).

I have been very impressed with my Kooiman. Initially I had to reduce my practice time, building up slowly. This is because you take more of the weight of the oboe with a Kooiman then a Phred. The weight, however, is distributed more evenly along the thumb. I was aware of how much more musically I was playing within my first few practice sessions using my Kooiman, due to the freedom it gave me to move in comparison with the Phred.

Both myself and my teacher have found that sliding between bottom C and C-sharp is more difficult with a Kooiman.

I am unable to keep my Kooiman inside the hard case with my oboe. Instead I keep it in the tin it came in, inside my oboe case cover.

I would recommend a Kooiman after consultation with a teacher (I was lucky enough to be able to try my teacher's oboe + Kooiman setup) and a reputable music shop selling both of these products.

Hope that has helped,
Anita

Reply To Message | Avail. Forums | Flat View

Newer Topic | Older Topic

Topics