THE OBOE is often thought of as a difficult instrument to play, and so some musicians think twice before taking it up.
In the early stages of learning, many find the oboe's sound is hard to control and it makes a rather harsh noise. Lots of elements are involved in improving these problems, such as breath control and the embouchure (the way the instrument is held in the mouth).
But one thing is always a potential problem on the oboe: the reed. Oboe-players spend their lives trying to find the ideal reed, and then hoping it will last as long as possible. Most professional players make their own.
