What to Expect as a Double Reed Player Minoring in Music in College
Understanding The Audience Experience
The Audience Experience Music has the unique ability to stir emotions, whether it’s performed with precision or contains noticeable imperfections. As listeners, we can be captivated by a flawlessly executed piece, yet there is also value in hearing music that’s still evolving. Every performance, regardless of its polish, offers something meaningful to both the performer […]
Using Your Oboe or Bassoon Skills to Get Into College: A Guide for Aspiring Musicians
Colleges and Universities Need Oboists and Bassoonists For students who excel at playing the oboe or bassoon, these unique talents can open doors to college admissions, scholarships, and academic opportunities. Whether you’re considering a full music degree, a minor, or just want to keep music in your life while pursuing another field, your double reed […]
Choosing the Right Double Reed Instrument: A Guide for Players and Parents
When you or your child are in the market for an oboe or bassoon – here’s some insight into what to look for and how to test an instrument before making a decision. This guide is here to help you navigate the process with confidence. Key Considerations Before You Begin – Budget: Set a budget […]
To perform and collaborate is a gift
We rely on ears and hearts to make sense of what we do as musicians. It seems as though we’re on the brink of connecting with ears and hearts once again, doesn’t it? Vaccinations are ramping up. Restrictions, while still not healthy to drop, are going to be further relaxed in the coming months. Maybe […]
Music Is My Life
Three Things To Try Out Now
When humidity is low, wood instruments shrink.
A student asked: “why do my oboe reeds play flat?”
If the reeds are not super long, generally, this means more breath support is needed. An indelicate test for this is to play into a tuner, and squeeze the reed harder with your lips while you’re playing. If the pitch is uncertain or swoops upward, the reed is too easy for you, and your concentration of breath is not sufficient to make it work consistently.
A Question About Ponte Oboes
“Mitch the Multi Instrumentalist” from Oregon posed a great question: “Who really made those Ponte oboes?” Well Mitch, I spent more than a few years at Charlie Ponte’s midtown Manhattan shop as the reedmaker (and floor sweeper, truth be told). During that time, I saw dozens of new Ponte oboes come in and go out. […]