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Re: Tight Fingers

Author: jhoyla
Date: 2007-08-12 06:36

Make sure the 2nd octave key is not forcing your hand into an unnatural position - the key can be either too low, or too high (in your case, possibly too low?). If that is the problem I recommend taking it to a good repairman rather than trying to bend it yourself.

Try covering the hole with a different part of your ring-finger - nearer the top of the finger. This will help you keep the finger bent, and will change the rotation of your left wrist (you'll have to keep your pinkie bent more than usual, also).

Also, try out different oboes (friends, a shop) and see if the key positions help you relax your ring-finger. I am not suggesting you change instruments at this time - just see if the instrument is part of the problem, or not. If so, you'll know what to look for when you buy your new instrument.

However, there are medical conditions which can make playing very hard for you. Alex Klein's retirement from the Chicago symphony because of dystonia is a case in point. I would discount medical problems before investing in a new instrument.

BTW, a covered-hole will definitely make your life much easier!
Good luck,
J.

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