There is debate as to whether the oboe is inherently more difficult to play than other instruments of the orchestra. Undoubtedly, playing the oboe does have some significant challenges, but so do other instruments of the orchestra, and one would hope that this should not put one off from pursuing a desire to play the oboe.
In the hands of a beginner the oboe has been described as sounding 'squawky', prone to squeaking and difficult to play in tune. This is partly due to the high pressure the oboe is played at (and resulting need for good diaphragm support) and partly due to the unusual nature of playing on a double reed. However, with some practice and time the lungs, diaphragm and embouchure (muscles surrounding the mouth) will strengthen and the oboe will become more manageable. An experienced oboe teacher will be a big help here in establishing good techniques and quicker progression.
Getting to a very high standard on the oboe however is more difficult as the player is beholden to the variable characteristics of the double reed they are playing on for accurate intonation and general quality and ease of sound. There are many oboists who obsess about finding or making the right reed for the music they are playing, and there are some who prefer to make do and change their reed as little as often.
Below is a recording of players of the oboists from the Royal Danish Orchestra playing a Beethoven Oboe trio. The centre player is playing a Cor Anglais, a slightly larger sister of the oboe, played with similar fingerings and sounding lower.
For specialist advice on oboes and bassoons feel free to view the Double Reed Ltd. website
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