Buy Oboes

Buy an Oboe

The oboe is a musical instrument from the woodwind group, characterized by a penetrating, sweet, and biting sound. Its use is widespread, as it is played in concert music, chamber music, symphonic orchestras, and musical bands. If you are interested in buying an oboe, at La Musa Instrumentos, we not only offer you the best ones, but we also share information that allows you to make the best selection.

The Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians used a version of the oboe, called abud, 5,000 years ago. Later, some of its variants were used in the ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman civilizations until they fell into disuse. In the 11th century AD, it reappeared in Europe and Western Asia, evolving into the family of instruments we know today.

Characteristics of the Oboe

The oboe is a musical instrument consisting of a conical tube that widens at the end opposite the mouthpiece. In the latter, the performer generates a vibration on a double reed, which causes the column of air contained in the tube to oscillate.

This instrument uses a set of keys and an ingenious system that allows it to close or open its holes to generate the different notes it can produce. The timbre produced is very velvety, but at the same time nasal or honky, making its sound easily recognizable.

The oboe is composed of three parts or pieces that fit together using a kind of tenons covered with cork. These parts are:

• Head or upper body, where the left hand is placed and the reed is inserted through a small opening.
• Lower body or middle part, where the right hand is placed.
• Bell, which is the widened extension of the previous part.

This particular construction makes the oboe a very robust instrument, allowing it to maintain its tuning for a long time. However, it also makes it relatively expensive, although there are models of affordable oboes, such as La Musa E Alcantara, which are ideal for children starting their interpretation.

The oboe is not a transposing instrument. It is tuned in C and has a range between mezzo-soprano and soprano.

The Oboe Family

Currently, the oboe family includes the following instruments:

• Piccolo Oboe, tuned in Eb or F, is the highest in the family and is now obsolete.
• Oboe, tuned in C, is the most commonly used today.
• English Horn, tuned in A, used primarily in Baroque music.
• English Horn, tuned in F. After the oboe, it is the most common.
• Baritone or Bass Oboe, also tuned in C, but an octave below the ordinary oboe. Now obsolete.

Types of Oboes

Oboes are typically classified according to the type of key system used, namely:

Automatic Oboes

They have two octave keys, giving them a high degree of flexibility in terms of fingering. This allows for the execution of quarter tones on the notes A and B, with the help of the right hand fingering.

This type is commonly used in large orchestras, especially those performing contemporary pieces that exploit the execution of quarter tones.

Semi-Automatic Oboes

They do not have a second octave key, making the mechanism easier to handle than in the previous case.

What is the role of the oboe in the orchestra or band?

The main role of the oboe in orchestras and bands is to carry the melody, usually in dialogue with the flute. Many of the works where the oboe stands out come from the Baroque and Classical periods, including compositions by Bach and Mozart.

In popular music, the sweet sound of this instrument has been used in pieces by artists like Madonna, REM, and Robbie Williams. Its sweet sound often adorns romantic melodies.

On the other hand, the notes generated by the oboe are used by other instruments as a guide in their tuning process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below we share some frequently asked questions that our customers often ask us.

Why is the oboe used for tuning in orchestras?

After the piano, the oboe is the instrument in the orchestra that has the most stable tone, meaning it does not vary with changes in temperature or humidity. Additionally, it has the property of maintaining its tuning for much longer compared to other instruments.

What is the difference between the oboe and the clarinet?

Although there are several differences, the most notable occurs in the mouthpiece. The oboe has a double reed, while the clarinet has a single reed.

What is the best oboe for a beginner?

It is common to start learning with a semi-automatic oboe, and after mastering its fingering, to use an automatic one. This does not mean that the former is exclusively a learning instrument, as professional oboists often have both.

In the case of an oboe for beginners or an oboe for children, brands like J. Michael, La Musa, and Gara are recommended. These produce affordable oboes, but with a high value/price ratio.

How much does an oboe cost?

The price of an oboe depends on various factors, such as its type, base and coating material, and the brand that manufactures it. At La Musa Instrumentos, you can find cheap oboes for beginners, like the Oboe Gara Gob 10, which costs around €700. And if you want to buy a professional oboe of high performance, you can find a variety of models starting at €8,000.

Where to buy an oboe?

At La Musa Instrumentos, we offer an unbeatable selection of oboes and the best brands on the market, such as Marigaux, Buffet, Rigoutat, Loree, Oscar Adler, or Bulgheroni. In our store, you can also purchase the accessories you need for your instrument online, such as oboe mouthpieces and hangers.

Are you worried about buying an oboe online without testing its sound? Our satisfaction guarantee allows you to return the instrument within 14 days of purchase, with no obligation.