The Complete Handbook of Oboe & English Horn Accessories
A practical reference for professionals, repair technicians, and serious players on selecting, using, and maintaining oboe and English horn accessories
by Alumigogo Books
non-fiction
A complete, practical guide to selecting, using, and maintaining every oboe and English horn accessory, from reeds to repair tools.
About this book
From the delicate art of reed adjustment to the proper way to swab a bore, the world of oboe and English horn accessories is filled with specialized tools and consumables that can be confusing for even experienced players. This handbook cuts through the marketing hype to provide a clear, practical reference for anyone who wants to get the most out of their instrument. It covers every major accessory category, explaining what works, why it works, and how to choose between the many available options.
Inside, you'll find detailed specifications for reed cane, staples, swabs, and maintenance kits, along with step-by-step guidance for daily use and long-term care. The book also offers a comprehensive look at the landscape of brands and suppliers, identifying their market positions and offering concrete business opportunities for those looking to enter the accessory market as a reseller, technician, or consultant. With dedicated chapters on troubleshooting common problems and a glossary of essential terms, this is the reference manual you will keep on your music stand or workbench for years to come.
Reader Reviews
Sandra Smith
★★★★★I've been playing professionally for over twenty years and thought I knew most of what there was to know about my gear. This book still managed to fill in gaps, especially around the business side of things which I never seriously considered. The chapter on choosing accessories is worth the price alone—it puts into words a lot of what I've learned through trial and error. The maintenance section is clear and practical, and I've already started following its swab care advice to the letter. It's a proper reference, the kind you keep on your shelf and actually pull down.
Matthew Baker
★★★★★As a repair tech, I work with dozens of oboe players a year and this is the first book I've found that I can confidently recommend to my clients. It's not just a list of products; it explains the 'why' behind the 'what', which is exactly what a player needs to make better decisions. I especially appreciate the neutral, no-nonsense tone and the concrete specifications in chapter two. It's a very useful resource for my workshop too, and I've picked up a few maintenance routines for my own line of tools. Solid reference material.