A report on the nature of oboists

A report on the nature of oboists

I have studied numerous sources. I have searched many an internet web page and typed 'oboist' into google many times that I have lost count. I wanted to find out the nature of this instrument I play. How it affects you, what the stereotypical outlook is on oboists.

The evidence is conclusive.

They are all insane.

Many theories have been put forward as to why this is the case.

Is it, in fact, because of the pressure of blowing?

Is it because of that feeling of loss we have to experience al so often when our favourite reeds split?

Is it because conductors forget that we exist and therefore are always just an afterthought to go with the flutes (e.g. 'Right, lets have the flutes… oh, and the oboe!') And so we feel the desperate need to be recognised?

I don't know.

Perhaps it's that frustration when you tell people you play the oboe and they give you a blank stare and ask what the hell it is?

Maybe it's the way people always look at it and say 'that's a clarinet, isn't it?'.

It could be that, as we have the power to tune the orchestra, this power goes to our head and therefore we are corrupted?

Who knows?