Oboe

The Oboe is a “double reed instrument” (as is the bassoon). It may look similar to a clarinet, but it's quite different. It creates sound when the double reed vibrates between the lips.

Physical Characteristics

Students with profound overbites or underbites will have difficulty producing good sounds on the oboe since the embouchure (mouth position) requires equal pressure on both sides of the reed. Even teeth will make it easier.

Other Considerations

Due to the nature of the instrument, oboists are REQUIRED to take weekly private lessons. Oboe reeds need to be handmade and tailored to the student by a professional. Eventually, oboists are taught how to make their own reeds! We can refer you to great local oboe professionals. To offset the cost of lessons, we provide school-owned oboes. This is for conscientious "Advanced-Content" students; those with a history of disciplinary trouble will not be considered for oboe.