Valparaiso, Indiana

Step Seven- Dynamics

As advanced oboists begin performing more sophisticated music in band and orchestra.  Conductors will be expecting players to be able to perform the correct dynamics as well as the correct notes and articulations.  As such, the ability to play pianissimo becomes a major challenge for the oboist, especially in the lower register of the instrument due to its conical shape.

Playing various articulations (staccato, legato, and accent) at various dynamic levels in all registers of the oboe become very challenging as the composers are writing for the oboe from low Bb to high F in complex keys.

Oboists need to practice sustaining single notes from one to nine to one with one being pianissimo and nine being fortissimo.  Finding a read with wide dynamic contrast is the first step.  The second step is controlling the air speed.  The third step is controlling the opening of the reed.  The final step is controlling the pitch of each note at all dynamic levels from pianissimo to fortissimo.

Playing repeated pianissimo quarter notes starting on low Bb and continuing up to low D is a challenge  Likewise playing repeated pianissimo quarter notes in the upper register of the oboe starting on high C and continuing to high F is also a challenge.

Remember that your reed must vibrate at the pianissimo dynamic level on all notes. You build the quality of your sound and dynamic range from this sound. Advanced oboists cannot just play loud and soft.  The dynamic range must be more refined at the upper and lower end of the dynamic range on all notes from low Bb to high F.
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For information on becoming a distributor call 219-464-3390 or email info@stradellareeds.com.

Students and oboists, our reeds are available at several locations and online. See our website for purchasing information: http://stradellareeds.com/find_us/