Author: Chris P
Date: 2007-03-23 17:32
Howarth do make pro oboes in plastic with all the extra gadgets, but they're expensive (and I can't really afford one right now, and I don't want to take out a loan to get one) - and for a fraction of the cost (around 10% the cost of a new Howarth) this one has everything found on a top pro model (Ab-Bb trill, LH F, D#-E trill, articulated C#, 'banana' key).
It's normal to have keywork alterations done to convert imported oboes to UK spec - most imports (Loree,Marigaux,Fossati,Rigoutat,etc.) have some keywork alterations done to them at the factory to make them UK spec - usually adding a thumbplate, relocating the 3rd 8ve touch and retuning the Bb and C for players that use thumbplate fingerings.
And I do like tinkering with woodwinds - even my Yamaha Custom saxes were taken apart when I got them home so I could change a few things that weren't to my liking, though I'm not complaining about their workmanship as there was nothing wrong with them (in fact, they're probably the best built saxes I have seen from any maker), it's just that there were some things I felt could be better (like cork pads in the 8ve keys as the leather ones were sticking).
Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.
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