Blog

A number of years ago, I was very fortunate to have Ray Still live near me.  Mr. Still was the principal oboe of the Chicago Symphony for about...

So you probably have noticed that I soak my oboe reeds in alcohol before they are sent. That is for two reasons: first, it obviously sanitizes the oboe...

One of the greatest problems I have as an oboe teacher is that students tend to bite. This is perhaps one of the worst things that you can do as an oboe...

As an oboe Reed maker, I am acutely aware of the instrument that I play. I just spent some time taking apart the top joint because there was something...

I sell oboe reeds and if I might say, I think they are very good. I sell quite a few oboe reeds to students, and many times they try to purchase oboe...

One of the most important things about being an oboist is that we must play in tune. There is just no compromise on that statement. I sometimes receive...

One of the reasons that we oboe reed makers have a pretty good business is that oboe reeds just do not last very long. You have to remember that you are...

We all know the story of “The Ugly Duckling”. The ugly duckling grew up to be an extremely beautiful duck. Well, not to compare oboe...

Practice practice practice! (Yes, the Photo is ME in a bad Mood!) We hear these words all of the time from our teachers, orchestra and band directors...

I have very much noticed that in this time when orchestras are not performing, and music jobs are almost non-existent, that it is very easy to let things...

Whenever I teach students, one of the most important things that I teach is breathing. Now, many teachers do teach about correct breathing techniques,...

One of the things that I see on many of my students and in fact many other people playing the oboe is that they lift their fingers way too high! I have...

This particular blog is for those who make, or are starting to make oboe reeds. Remember, the most important thing about making an oboe reed is having...

One of the most important things about playing the oboe is knowing what it really sounds like. We live in a day and age where we can find music to listen...

One of the issues with making oboe reeds for other people is that they are not necessarily optimum for another embouchure. I try my best to make something...

I teach many oboe students and always see some of the same problems. This goes for people who have been playing for a moderately long time even. We all...