What is the Oboe?
The oboe is a type of double-reed (reed) woodwind instrument. Oboes are most
often made of wood, but can also be made of synthetic materials, such as plastic,
resin, or hybrid composites, with metal keys, a tapered bore, and a flared bell.
The sound is produced by blowing on the reed at sufficient air pressure, causing
it to vibrate with the column of air.
The timbre it produces is characterized by having a penetrating sound,
somewhat nasal, sweet and very expressive.
Today the oboe is commonly used as an orchestral or solo instrument in
symphony orchestras, concert bands, and chamber ensembles. The oboe is
especially used in classical music, film music, some genres of folk music, and is
occasionally heard in jazz, rock, pop, and popular music.
Why the Oboe?
The oboe is an instrument that is not well known and, unlike others, it involves a
more specialized learning process. Not only must you learn to play the
instrument, but also the student has to master the process of making reeds.
Without the use of a reed, the oboe produces no sound and without the use of a
good reed the sound suffers. Likewise, it is important to consider that for the
construction of a cane, a separate apprenticeship and specific tools are needed.
Our mission is born from the consistent lack of these resources, teachers and
schools in San Pedro Sula, and consists of providing Honduran youth with the
hope of pursuing studies and continuing the oboe legacy in our country.
The Oboe Reeds
The oboe reed is made up of a piece of wood called a cane, which comes from the
bamboo reed known as Arundo donax. The piece is folded in half and tied with a nylon
thread to a cork-covered brass tube called a staple. Once the cane is tied, it is scraped
with a special knife to make it vibrate correctly.
Learn more about our organization HOPE
How does the Oboe open doors?
Did you know that the oboe is an unconventional instrument and that it can open many doors for you to study abroad?
Because the oboe is not a common instrument or played by many, it is considered an instrument in high demand. Universities and professors abroad
are eager to recruit students who play the oboe very well. They almost always offer partial or full scholarships for bachelor’s, master’s, artist diploma,
professional certificate, and/or doctorate degrees.
Did you know that the oboe is used in symphony orchestras and in classical and popular wind bands?
The oboe is a very versatile instrument that, due to its sweet and expressive sound, is often featured in emotional melodies in successful movies and other
productions such as commercials.
Outstanding oboists in Honduras
Other outstanding oboists in Honduras
Outstanding Oboists Abroad
