A family of double-reed instruments known as Shawms were used in music from the year 500 to about 1430. These were the forerunner of the modern oboe which was invented by Jean Hotterre in 1660. The name “oboe” is a mispronunciation of the French word “hautbois,” which means “high wood” shawm instrument. The modern fingering system for the oboe was adapted in the mid 1800’s.
The oboe family includes the Oboe in C (the one you will play), Oboe d’Amore in A and the English Horn in F. Oboe is normally owned by the school band program and rented to a band student through the band boosters, however many prefer to rent or purchase their own.
Students who play Oboe are asked to sign up with a private Oboe teacher. Without private lessons, Oboe is a difficult instrument to play because of it’s many keys, unusual fingerings, and specific technique.
SDF: 9
Good Oboists are highly sought after by bands, orchestras and universities. They are among the highest group likely to earn scholarships. This is because there are few good oboists. A concert band of 75 typically uses 2 oboists.