If you double on the oboe, here is a list of the essentials you might need.
I have been doubling on woodwinds for over 20 years. There have been gigs where I have taken up to 6 different instruments with me! Here are some essentials you’ll need to make oboe a comfortable part of your regular set-up.
The Basics
First, you’ll need a reliable instrument and a reed to play on.
Fox Renard Model 330 Oboe
There are so many oboes to choose from! If you aren’t sure where to start, this is a great model for a woodwind player doubling on oboe.
- It is plastic (so it won’t crack in pits or as you switch between instruments)
- It has a wider bore then the beginner models (allowing for a bigger sound and a wider dynamic range)
- It’s easy to repair!
- Unlike beginner models, it has a Left-F (which you’ll be glad you have!)
Image Credit wwbw.com
Legere European Scraped Synthetic Oboe Reed
I am a true fan of the authentic resonance a cane reed has to offer, but synthetic reeds have come a long way.
I have used the Legere reed and can recommend it as an excellent choice for woodwind players needing something consistent in the pit (or if you don’t want to mess with making your own reeds).
I reccomend the medium-soft. It is the easiest to play on and has a beautiful tone. These reeds can be adjusted as well!
Image Credit wwbw.com
K&M Woodwind Stand
This stand is a life-saver for anyone playing multiple woodwinds. I actually keep it on my desk and then fold it up for gigs.
It has four customizable placement screws and you can buy the pegs seperately to choose which ones you need. The oboe peg works for both oboe and English horn. I tied a little thread at the bottom of the piccolo peg and use it for my penny whistle!
This stand is sturdy enough to keep your instruments safe, but light enough to fold up and take with you.
Image Credit wwbw.com
Reed Tools
Even if oboe isn’t your primary instrument, you’ll need a few essentials to keep your purchased reeds feeling good and lasting longer.
Reed Geek Universal G4 Reed Tool
This might just be one of the best tools you purchase. Unlike traditional reed knives, you never need to sharpen this tool, and as a bonus, it is safe to fly with in your carry on!
Sharp enough to adjust your oboe reeds, this tool also works on the synthetic Legere reeds as well.
Image Credit wwbw.com
Reed Case & Parafilm
Reed cases help the reeds last longer by preventing damage, and most importantly, they have ventilation that will prevent mold.
Parafilm is by far the best way to seal your reeds. It stretches more then plumbers tape, is clear, and stays on way better then fish skin.
Reed-Adjusting Kit
My go-to recommendation is the Forrests oboe reed tool kit. This kit is one of the few tool kits that come with a sharpening stone!
While this kit has the essentials for making your own reeds, it’s still the best bang for your buck.
I recommend the B-12 or B-13 beveled knife. These are the easiest to sharpen for beginners.
Image Credit forrestsmusic.com
Maintenance
A few things you might need to take care of your oboe on the go.
Screwdriver and Springhook
A woodwind basic that you might already have, the classic screwdriver and springhook. This handy tool can be purchased all-in-one to save space, or individually to save money.
Image Credit hodgeproductsinc.com
English Horn Pull-Through Swab
A quick pro-tip for you…this pull-through English horn swab can be used for both obe and English horn! While it can be pulled through the English horn (not the oboe), I don’t recommend pulling it through either. Simply pull to the end with the tail still sticking out the bell and pull back through (to be safe).
Music Stand Utility Tray
Even if you don’t double, a utility tray can be a game changer for double reed players. However, if you do double on an oboe or English horn, this tray provides everything you need, including a reed soaker!
If you prefer just to buy the reed soaker instead, you can do so here >>
Image Credit jonesdoublereed.com
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