PROFESSIONAL OBOE LESSONS - Madison, WI
Beginners, Advanced, Intermediate Players
OBOE INSTRUCTION
The oboe was the official beginning of my musical journey, and it still informs and influences everything I write and play in some way. Learning this instrument requires patience and dedication, but can also be incredibly rewarding. From picking up the oboe for the first time all the way through collegiate level auditions, I’m looking forward to helping you learn more and improving your playing.
Guitar:
Music Lessons
OBOE INSTRUCTION
The oboe was the official beginning of my musical journey, and it still informs and influences everything I write and play in some way. Learning this instrument requires patience and dedication, but can also be incredibly rewarding. From picking up the oboe for the first time all the way through collegiate level auditions, I’m looking forward to helping you learn more and improving your playing.
Guitar:
Explore Music Lessons
Wherever You Start, I'll Meet You There
The oboe takes patience and the right guidance. Whether you’re trying your first reed or preparing for conservatory auditions, I’ll help you build solid technique and move forward at your level. If you find you love this instrument, I can take you as far as you want to go.
Classical Oboe Instruction
I teach classical technique, solo repertoire, orchestral excerpts, chamber music, and music theory. I accept students at all levels from complete beginner through advanced players preparing for college auditions or ensemble work.
What I Teach
- Classical technique and fundamentals
- Embouchure, breath control and finger coordination
- Phrasing and vibrato
- Solo repertoire across all difficulty levels
- Orchestral excerpts for audition preparation
- Chamber music and ensemble playing
- Reed making and maintenance guidance
- Music theory and score analysis
- Performance preparation and stage presence
Lesson Formats
- Weekly Lessons
- 30 Minute Intervals
- In-Person Lessons
- Online Lessons
- Beginner to Intermediate
- Intensive study on the collegiate level
- Guided instruction on specific methods
- Genre specific lessons
Book Your Lesson
Your first lesson will be 30 minutes. We’ll assess your current skill level and find a regular day and time that works for your schedule. The time slot you book for this first session may differ from your ongoing lesson time.
Friendly Reminders: Text & Email
All new students must provide an email address and phone number. You’ll receive confirmation when you book, plus text and email reminders before your lesson.
Confirmation Policy
Please confirm your lesson at least 24 hours in advance. Unconfirmed lessons will be automatically canceled to make the time slot available for other students.
OBOE FAQ
Do I need to own an oboe before starting lessons?
You will need to have an oboe, but you may not need to “own” one. Since oboes are quite expensive to purchase outright, they can either be obtained through school (as a student) or from a music store on a rental basis.
How hard is oboe compared to other woodwind instruments?
Every instrument, woodwind or otherwise, has challenges at the beginning of the learning process. The oboe however is generally considered more difficult to start for a variety of reasons. Be prepared to sound rather duck-like in the beginning.
Will you teach me how to make reeds?
While I have made reeds in the past, I do not currently teach reed making. I can help with the adjustment of reeds for playability.
Do I have to make reeds or can I buy them premade?
My recommendation is to buy reeds to begin with. When you decide to dedicate yourself to the instrument is when I would suggest learning how to adjust pre-made reeds. Over time you can learn to make your own, as it can be an intensive process and one where you have to learn what best suits you.
Can you help me prepare for college auditions or youth/adult orchestra placements?
Yes, I can help you prepare for ensemble or college level auditions. We will discuss repertoire, phrasing, tone, technique and theory.
What should I bring to my first lesson?
Bring your instrument, any music you are currently working on, and a spiral notebook for additional notes.
What is embouchure?
Embouchure (ahm-bu-sure) is a term that describes the collective, proper form and placement of lips, tongue and teeth around the reed. It can also refer to the muscles around the mouth used to create and control sound.
What do you recommend for practice intervals?
While the embouchure is developing, 10-15 minutes per practice session should be effective. Multiple spaced out sessions can happen in a day, time permitting.
Do you recommend or teach a specific oboe methods?
I use the Rubank method books, followed by the Barrett oboe method.
Do you have any oboe recommendations for beginners?
A quality student model from makers like Yamaha or Fox will serve you well. For beginners, I would recomend renting an instrument until you decide to commit to it.
“The oboe is a narrow channel through which one must push a flood of expression”.