Author: lbarton
Date: 2010-06-17 22:51
I have owned and played ancient Kohlert, terrible Linton, Rigoutat, German Gordet, Loree and Laubin. The Laubin without a doubt is the most reliable, consistent instrument arround. I currently own one made in the 70's and another about seven years old. My daughter owns an even older one from the 60's and one only about 3 years old. I would trust any one of them to play reliably and they have needed very little adjustments compared to any of the others including Lorees. NONE have ever cracked. That being said, one of my former teachers who played 1st in the NYC Opera stated once that you can expect at least 50% of brand new oboes to crack, regardless of brand and including Lorees. I think he was about correct on that estimate.
The Laubin is slightly heavier than some, tho less than the massive German Gordet , it has what some describe as a darker sound. The well made reed that is best for a Loree will not be the best in the Laubin and vice versa. One has to get used to slight reed adjustments for different instruments. My suggestion is put your name on their list, as last time I checked they don't even ask for a deposit, and if you find "the perfect oboe" before the Laubin is ready they have another seven years of people waiting to take the new one. It is a tiny company, you deal personally with the owner and their integrity is top notch. My daughter essentially quit playing for over 15 years, but kept her Laubin, and every Christmas we would play duets. That is the only instrument I have ever run across that you could take out of the case only once or twice a year and it would play just fine regardless of season, weather, lack of use, adjustment, whatever...nuff said. Lois Barton
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