I have been playing the oboe for a while, but no one has ever told me how much of the reed I should hold in my mouth. Is it just the tip? Is it half of the reed? Does one adjust this embouchure to control/adjust pitch? Also, which embouchure is best for good endurance?
Any thoughts? Usually, when I play I end up having my lips at about the middle of the reed portion. Technically, when your embauchure is correct, and you are supporting your sound, it should be in tune, but you've probably notice that when you move your lips, you can fluctuate the pitch as much as a half step in either direction. The best way to get good endurance is to practice more. As you play more, your muscles will become stronger, and it will be less painful to play for long periods of time. I played oboe in high school. you need to make sure the end in your mouth can vibrate to make the sound. don't have so little in your mouth that nothing can make a sound. just listen to the sound you make and decide how much reed to put in your mouth to make the sound you like. | 