Author: d-oboe
Date: 2006-09-01 04:38
in addition to what others have mentioned, I would strongly suggest engraining posture right from the start. Many oboists (including myself) don't get nagged on this until university. Make sure that:
-the head is neutral (not tucked down as many do)
-fingers are relaxed
-shoulders are relaxed
-arms are comfortably at the side, using the bicep muscle to support the majority of the weight of the oboe. Don't squeeze in too narrow, but don't "charge down the hallway" with big wide arms either.
Some people might argue this is too much for a beginner...but it is MUCH easier to do it now, than to develop bad tension habits, and have to undo them with extensive relaxation, and stretching exercises. (Not that one shouldn't do them anyway, but still...)
Also, teach them that oboe is not "difficult". While it's a challenging instrument, as any other, try to alleviate the common misconception that it's ok for oboists to *obsess* over reeds, and get really neurotic about everything. Especially reeds! It really isn' ok. Seriously!! Reeds are such an easy scapegoat, and as far as I'm concerned, an unacceptable one.
I think, aside from the usual scales and breathing, if the beginner is given a fresh, more logical, methodical, and relaxed approach to the oboe - instead of the typical tense-necked, squished-embouchure, tight-finger introduction - their oboe playing career, however long or short, will be much more enjoyable.
D
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