Author: Northreed
Date: 2004-08-04 16:23
Hello Bill et. al.:
I offer a few thoughts on EH purchases, etc. For many years, I played an ancient Louis (England, 1930s) EH that had a sweet, projecting sound (my wife still plays this instrument and loves it). However, when it was time to do more solo EH playing (sonatas, concertos,etc.) I bought two other instruments. The first, a Gordet (probably Bulgheroni rebranded), the second a Hans Kreul (Mirafone). Both are professional-quality instruments. I tried many different bocals from all over (by the way I have some very good ones for sale now!!). Over the years, I had several minor modifications done to the instruments, and recently had Tom Hiniker modify the bore of the Gordet. I spent time at Tom Hiniker's place selecting the best bocal from his shop for each instrument for my style of playing on these instruments. I prefer a slightly shorter-than-usual EH reed (54mm) so I need a #3 bocal. I also insist on a singing, but darkish sound.
However, after all this, I happened to play two particular new Loree EHs at my repairguy's place in Toronto. Both were very good, but one of them just knocked my socks off! Needless to say, I bought it (traded in both of my other beauties). It is also a very good match for my new Loree Royal oboe bought earlier this year. All this from someone who, until recently, had trouble looking a Loree in the eye because of tonal and other issues. I have typically played German instruments made by Hans Kreul (my original Gordet oboe is a beautiful example of his craft). However, I think I now have the EH that I will use for the rest of my life.
I guess the message here is to try as many instruments as possible. Also, possibly your first instrument will not be your last. Older EHs are often very good, and they seem to last much better than oboes. According to Peter Hurd, the Chauvet EHs (1970s era?) were among the best ever made, with the possible exception of the new Lorees. Those Chauvets I have played certainly supported this contention. Melvin Berman and Leslie Young of Toronto both play vintage Chauvets - one of these is apparently magnificent. Old is not necessarily a bad thing for EHs! I recently tried a new Fossati as well - nice scale, but this particular instrument just couldn't be convinced to sing!
I hope these rambling thoughts help shed some light on your path!!
Nigel
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