<p>You mention that the instrument you are playing belongs to your school…and was last used by someone who is now a teacher. My daughter is an oboe/English horn player (non-major). One thing you will need to consider before going off to college is the purchase of a good professional level oboe. I would not recommend you purchase one until you are sure that you want to continue playing this instrument as they are a bit costly. But…you won’t be able to take the HS instrument with you to college…and college majors are expected to own their own instrument(s). If you are taking lessons with an oboe player, that person may know someone who has a good used instrument. My daughters oboe and English horn are both excellent quality used instruments. The oboe was only three years old when we bought it. The EH was older, but extremely well cared for. Do not buy an instrument without trying it. In other words…don’t order over Ebay unless there is a guarantee that you can return the instrument for a full refund. These are finicky instruments and even several instruments of the same make/model will play differently. You really need to try the instrument yourself.</p>
<p>My daughter never played an old oboe, but she DID play a couple of very old English Horns. They were awful instruments. Make sure that old oboe is working properly, has been recently repadded, and is properly lubricated (you really shouldn’t do this your self unless you really know what you’re doing). The keys also need to be adjusted properly. If the instrument isn’t a good one, you might get discouraged unnecessarily. Our high school had some old (very old) oboes…and many students tried them unsuccessfully. So…just an FYI…make sure the instrument is properly tuned.</p>
<p>Yes, eventually you will need to learn to make your own reeds. BUT you can also buy premade reeds. We used to buy them by the dozen (they were cheaper that way). DD makes her own now…and has done so since 11th grade…but she didn’t before that. As noted…it’s hard to do. Also the tools and reed making supplies are not exactly a bargain cost wise.</p>
<p>Oboe is a great instrument. It’s not an easy one, but I love the sound of a well played oboe. Good luck to you.</p>