Oboe
Woodwind family
Listen to Examples
Guidelines for Success
- Hands are large enough to handle large stretches.
- Parental support is strong.
- Work habits are strong and achievement is high.
- Sense of pitch is above average.
- Eye-hand coordination is good.
- Both student and parents enjoy "classical" music.
- Reading skills are above average.
- Perseverance and level of confidence are high.
- Desire to play the oboe is unwavering.
- Teeth are smooth and free of sharp edges; closed teeth meet evenly.
- Limited availability.
Oboe Supplies
Call to Order
A quality instrument is crucial for successful learning. Parents can call (800) 637-6872 to order supplies from District 47's preferred vendor, Quinlan and Fabish, Mon-Fri. 11am-7pm or Sat. 9am-3pm or order online with the buttons below...
Method Book
5th grade students will read music from their own method book entitled, "Habits of a Successful Beginner Band Musician."
Music Stand
Students will set up their own music stand at full band. We use the Hamilton KB400N music stand and the Hamilton KB12 carrying bag.
3-Ring Binder
Please help our class run smoothly and organize our songs, worksheets and other handouts in a 3-ring binder.
Reeds
Beginners use medium-soft cane reeds. You will need at least 3 good reeds at all times. Get a reed case and a reed soaking container to help your reeds last longer and stay safe. Cost is ~$16 per reed. Watch Video called "Reeds."
Silk Swab
Oboes need to be swabbed every time after they are played. You should get a silk swab that fits through the whole oboe. Watch Video called "Swabbing."
Origin of Oboe
Origins of the oboe can be traced to the late 13th century shawms. This family of double reed instruments was prominently featured in music of the Middle Ages (500-1430).
Inventor of Oboe
Frenchman Jean Hotterre is credited with inventing the oboe in 1660. The name "oboe" is actually a mispronunciation of "hautbois," the original French word for a "high wood" shawm instrument. In the 19th century, instrument makers created an oboe fingering system modeled after the flute designed by Boehm. Today, most oboes are made with the Boehm system.
Oboe Family
The oboe family includes the Oboe in C (the most common), Oboe d'Amore in A and the English Horn in F. In concert band and orchestra, the oboe plays solos and blends with other woodwind instruments. It is the highest-pitched double reed instrument.
Composers & Performers
C.P.E. Bach, Beethoven, Mahler, Richard Strauss, and Vaughan Williams are important composers who have included the oboe in their writing. Famous oboe performers include Heinz Holliger and John DeLancie.
Note Chart
