IN THIS LESSON:
Swabbing the Oboe (video)
Disassembly (video)
Daily/Annual Maintenance
Do’s & Don’ts of Oboe care
Daily/Annual Maintenance
Do’s & Don’ts
Be sure to care for your instrument daily using the guide shown in the video above. Daily maintenance is important to keeping your instrument in good shape.
Every year you should take your Oboe to a certified Oboe repair technician/specialist to have it serviced and adjusted. The repair technician will help inform you of what work needs to be done on the Oboe to help preserve the life of your instrument. Yearly upkeep will help keep costs down over time!
If you notice your Oboe is having troubles or you are having a hard time playing on it, and you are certain your reed is quality, it could be a sign that it is out of adjustment!
DO:
Swab your instrument after each time you play it before putting it away.
Be gentle when swabbing.
Store your instrument properly & safely in its case.
Seek a professional repair technician if any major issues arise.
Have at least three reeds on a rotation.
DON’T:
Open your case in your lap or on a music stand. Open the case on a secure, flat surface such as a table or the ground.
Grasp the keys/rods too firmly. If you must grab them aside from normal playing, be gentle.
Expose your Oboe to water, or extreme temperatures (hot or cold).
Leave your instrument on the ground unattended (or worse, on a music stand or chair!). If you must set it down, an Oboe stand is preferred to avoid damage.
Leave your instrument in a vehicle - always bring it inside!
Neglect yearly maintenance. Repairing your Oboe annually is always cheaper than waiting until a major problem appears.