Key takeaways 

• The oboe is a double-reed instrument  
• It’s available in two different systems: automatic and semi-automatic 
• The instrument dates back to ancient Greece 
• It features a slim conical shape  

Our oboe recommendations 

What kind of instrument is the oboe? 

The oboe is a woodwind instrument known for its distinctive and expressive sound. It belongs to the double-reed family, meaning it produces sound using two thin pieces of cane bound together. When air is blown through the narrow gap between these reeds, they vibrate rapidly, generating the oboe’s distinctive tone. 

Unlike the clarinet, which uses a single reed attached to a mouthpiece, the oboe’s double-reed design removes the need for a mouthpiece and allows for a more complex and nuanced sound. Its body is typically made of wood and features a conical bore, which contributes to its warm timbre often used for melodic passages in orchestral and chamber music. 

The double-reed mechanism also affects how the instrument is played. The small opening between the reeds allows only a limited amount of air to pass through, requiring strong, precise breath control. This airflow dynamic makes the oboe challenging to master, but it also enhances its expressive range and ability to project clearly within an ensemble.

Anatomy and materials  

The oboe is a slim woodwind instrument with a conical shape and a double reed at the top. It consists of three main sections: the upper joint, the lower joint, and the bell. These fit together, with a system of keys that help control pitch and enable smooth transitions across its range. 

Most oboes are made from hardwoods like grenadilla, which gives them a rich, resonant sound. However, student models are often made from plastic or resin, making them more durable and less prone to cracking. 

At around 65 cm long, the oboe has a narrow bore that gradually widens towards the bell, shaping its clear, expressive tone. The silver-plated keys, along with strategically placed tone holes, help fine-tune notes and dynamics. The small double reed, inserted at the top of the instrument, is crucial to its sound, requiring steady air pressure and precise control from the player. 

Oboes come in semi-automatic and fully automatic systems. The best choice depends on your playing ability, experience, and goals. Fully automatic oboes don’t have a lever for manual adjustment, which can make them harder to regulate and more prone to errors. On the other hand, the semi-automatic system does include levers for adjustments, making it easier to play and more widely used – especially among beginners. 

Oboe vs. clarinet 

The oboe and clarinet may look similar, but they have key differences in sound, construction, and playing technique. The most noticeable distinction is the reed – the oboe uses a double reed, while the clarinet has a single reed attached to a mouthpiece. 

The oboe has a conical bore, which gives it that cutting tone, whereas the clarinet has a cylindrical bore, resulting in a rounder, mellower sound. The oboe also requires precise breath control, as only a small amount of air passes through its narrow opening. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the differences between these instruments, check out our clarinet vs. oboe comparative guide.

A brief history of the oboe 

The oboe has existed for thousands of years, with early versions dating back to ancient Egypt, Greece, and India. One of its closest ancestors was the shawm, a loud, reedy instrument used in medieval and Renaissance music. 

In the 17th century, French instrument makers refined the shawm into the baroque oboe. This version had a softer, more controlled sound, making it better suited to orchestras. Over time, the design evolved, featuring a narrower bore and additional keys to improve tuning and range. 

By the 19th century, the modern oboe had taken shape, with a fully mechanised key system allowing for more precise playing. Typically made from grenadilla wood, today’s oboe is a core instrument in orchestras and chamber music. 

How to play the oboe 

Playing the oboe requires a great deal of control, particularly in breathing and how you shape your lips around the reed (known as embouchure). When you blow air through the small double reed, it vibrates to produce the oboe’s unique sound. 

The reed’s tiny opening means you must use your breath carefully to control volume and add vibrato. This takes time to learn. It also takes time to build endurance, as playing for long periods can be physically demanding. 

With the oboe, you’ll probably find that having a private teacher is extremely beneficial to your progress. With regular practice and the right support, you’ll gradually develop the skills needed to produce a steady, expressive sound. 

The role of the oboe 

The oboe plays a key role in many types of music. In an orchestra, it often takes on expressive melodies with its clear, singing tone. The principal oboist also has the important task of tuning the orchestra, as the oboe’s stable pitch makes it a reliable reference. 

Beyond the orchestra, the oboe can be heard in wind ensembles, chamber groups, and many film soundtracks. While it’s most commonly used in classical music, it also appears in jazz and contemporary compositions. 

FAQs 

Is the oboe the hardest instrument to play? 

The oboe is considered one of the hardest instruments to play due to its challenging embouchure, breath control, and tuning precision. Its double reed requires careful adjustment, and maintaining steady airflow is demanding. Mastering the oboe takes years of practice, making it one of the most difficult woodwind instruments. However, it is extremely rewarding to learn! 

What is a person who plays the oboe called? 

A person who plays the oboe is called an oboist. Oboists must develop exceptional breath control, precise finger technique, and the skill to craft or adjust reeds. They often play a crucial role in orchestras, bands, and chamber music ensembles, frequently tuning the orchestra with their distinct A440 pitch. 

What is the oboe used for? 

The oboe is used in orchestras, concert bands, and chamber music to provide a clear, expressive tone. It often plays lyrical melodies and is responsible for tuning the orchestra. You’ll also find the oboe in plenty of film scores. 

Final thoughts 

Although less well-known than some of the more popular woodwind instruments, the oboe is a fantastic instrument to learn. It has a rich history in orchestral music, dating back to the seventeenth century, and remains an important part of today’s musical landscape, particularly in jazz, folk, and classical music.

The oboe is ideal for musicians seeking a challenge or those interested in learning a more unusual instrument. Either way, it’s a highly rewarding experience.

Hopefully, this guide has helped answer the question, “What is an oboe?” and given you a better understanding of this fascinating instrument. If you’re looking for more content on oboes, be sure to check out the following articles.

Clarinets vs. Oboes –  What’s the Difference? 

Instruments in the Woodwind Family – An In-depth Guide to Woodwind 

The 11 Types of Clarinets Every Woodwind Player Needs to Know