oboe clearinghouse?

Subject: oboe clearinghouse?
From: GUEST,leeneia
Date: 17 Nov 02 - 10:17 PM

I've got a friend who longs to own an oboe. Now, there's such a thing as the Organ Clearinghouse and the Harpsichord Clearinghouse for those who wish to buy those instruments. Is there an Oboe Clearinghouse for a potential oboist? I looked on Google, but no luck.

Subject: RE: oboe clearinghouse?
From: JohnInKansas
Date: 18 Nov 02 - 12:33 AM

A more general search like "woodwinds" would more likely be fruitful. Since the oboe is a "conventional orchestral" instrument, most places that might handle them would lump them into an inventory that covers a broader span than "just oboe."

An oboe is also a sufficiently complex instrument that - for most uses - purchase from "unknown sources" can be risky. Pawn shops in my area have quite a number of them, but virtually none with "modern" key systems.

A visit to a local retailer who stocks "band and orchestra" instruments might be a good idea, even if you intend to look for a bargain elsewhere. It will give you an idea of what a "modern" one should look like, and a chance to discuss whether/where service/repair is reasonably available.

Most such dealers in medium to large communinities - especially those who sell to high school and younger musicians - have rental programs (sometimes reasonable, sometimes not); and may have a fair stock of rental returns at reasonable(?) prices.

The caveat is the same as for most instruments (except maybe guitars, due to GAS) - those that are playable get played, those that aren't get sold.

John

Subject: RE: oboe clearinghouse?
From: fogie
Date: 18 Nov 02 - 04:06 AM

Ive tried and failed with oboes twice in my life. I love the sound, but they are oh so hard to blow, and ended up with a sax. In UK there are quite a few Wind-instrument specialist shops to go and enquire. I certainly would suggest borrowing or hiring one first. Like many instruments there are proffessional and student models. There are never many oboes around second hand as c/w flutes clarinets, and saxes but best of luck.

Subject: RE: oboe clearinghouse?
From: Dave Bryant
Date: 18 Nov 02 - 05:40 AM

I believe that Howarth's of London used to have a secondhand list.

Subject: RE: oboe clearinghouse?
From: GUEST,leeneia
Date: 18 Nov 02 - 09:00 PM

Thanks for the tips. My friend played oboe in college, so she knows she can play it. I understand it's quite a challenge.

I think I will do a search for woodwinds.