The Oboe

The oboe is a tall, thin woodwind instrument. It is played by blowing through two pieces of reed tied together. This is called a double reed. The oboe makes a bright sound that can be heard easily in an orchestra.

How to Play

To play the oboe, you blow hard through the double reed. The two reeds shake together very fast to make sound. You press keys and cover holes with your fingers to change the notes. It takes strong lips and lots of practice to play well. Most players start learning in middle school.

The Oboe in Music

The oboe has a very special job in an orchestra. Before a concert, the whole orchestra tunes to the oboe's note. That is because the oboe's sound is steady and clear. Oboes are often used in beautiful, slow songs. Many famous composers wrote music just for the oboe.

Fun Facts

• Oboe players often make their own reeds by hand.
• The oboe's name comes from a French word meaning 'high wood'.
• The oboe is one of the hardest instruments to play well.

Did You Know?

The famous song from the movie 'The Mission' uses an oboe and is one of the most loved oboe tunes ever written.