Instruments of the Modern Symphony Orchestra/OBOE

by Arthur Edward Johnstone

OBOE

Frederick de Angelis
N.Y. Philharmonic Orchestra

The oboe is a reed instrument of conical bore terminating in a small flaring bell. It is played with a double reed consisting of two blades of very thin cane bound together, in such a manner as to leave a small opening through which the air is blown into the instrument. The vibration of this reed sets the column of air in motion, thus producing the tone, the pitch of which is controlled by opening and closing the finger-holes and keys.

The characteristic tonal quality of the oboe is reedy and somewhat nasal. Its lowest tones are loud and strident, and must be used with the utmost discretion. The highest tones are difficult of production and are of doubtful utility, the flute taking these pitches more effectively. It is in the medium register, comprising about an octave and a half, that the oboe excels in charm and flexibility. Its voice is pastoral, tender, and not without a touch of sadness, but it may also express joyous and graceful phrases with excellent effect.

The oboe is the most assertive of the wood-wind instruments, owing to its incisive tonal quality. Two, and often three oboes are employed in symphony orchestras, the third performer being also provided with an english horn to be used when required by the score.

The range of the oboe is:

FREDERICK DE ANGELIS
N. Y. PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA