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Re: Weight, plastic and wood

Author: Oboelips
Date: 2014-10-20 22:19

Hi, I too, am very double-jointed (hypermobile). I can touch my forearms with my thumbs easily, even though arthritis is starting to be a complaint.

I found that the key spacing is more important than the actual weight. It helps immensely if I don't have to splay my hands, which are on the small side (ring size 6). But, I don't want to compromise on keys or sound.

I play a Rigoutat Evolution. I use the original thumbrest, but I stick 2 layers of self-adhesive moleskin foam underneath it which keeps my thumb a wee bit closer to my hand, and in general comforts the thumb.
The foam will fall off about every 3-4 years, replace it, and you're ready for another 3-4 years. Yes, I do mean the "Dr. Scholls" type that is used inside of shoes. You don't take it off the thumbrest when you put the oboe in the case, it just all fits in there nicely.

The Evolution, a pro model with darn near everything except a left C#, is lighter than some wood oboes, and heavier than others, but it was made with smaller hands in mind. I also have an older narrow opera bore Loree which is lighter in weight, but for comfort, the Rigoutat wins. I'm complimented on the sound often.

Velocity is always something that I have to work to attain (REALLY double-jointed fingers). The Rigoutat helps with that--it's just "sized better" for me.

I'm in the US, Iowa--hot/humid summers, icy/cold/snow winters. Nary a crack in the Rigoutat, which I purchased Used about 10 years ago.

I would say to play everything you can, and then buy what FITS.

Oboefully,
Deb

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