Author: vboboe
Date: 2006-05-25 13:51
... haven't done a cost comparison with other larger instruments such as bassoon or tuba or double bass (all too big for average younger kids to carry around as a starter instrument) but oboe's not only difficult to play in the conditions that seem common in school band situations, but also expensive to maintain.
Yes, big problem, modern oboe doesn't march well. If oboe player wants to be in a marching band, they have to play something else. And this is the modern dainty instrument that once upon a time, before courtly refinement took over, was used as a loud outdoor instrument in warfare. Maybe we should be looking at modern bombardes as marching band instruments? (shorter reed, wider tube)
For such a small instrument (oboe easily carried by younger kids so should be a starter instrument), the task of maintaining a good reed supply is a big shock to the pocket book for any average parent, especially if they don't or won't grasp the harsh reality that reeds wear out (or break or don't work) faster than they can turn around to their closest, but fairly distant music store to get another one.
Finding a good oboe teacher, not just somebody who plays oboe well but also has a solid background in pedagogical methods, plural, isn't easy either, and music lessons are another strain on a parent's pocket book.
The first two years on oboe are so critical for developing good habits on this instrument, it isn't just a pick up and play instrument, that a teacher is vitally important.
And then there are oboe the instrument issues, little tweaks needed and better done by somebody who really knows how to tweak oboes or it leads to worse problems. How many of you can find a good oboe maintenance and repair mechanic locally?
Somehow the oboe community needs to address the difficulties of getting started on oboe, and see what could be done to make it easier or at least more accessible for a larger number of students. Then we have to keep oboe students going who want to go on to other things.
What needs to be done to open up the doors to attract and keep oboe students? Your ideas?
Sponsorships to band programs for lesser played instruments?
Workshops for band teachers to learn more about oboe (also E-horn and bassoon)?
Community double reed bands as a training and learning venue?
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