Larry Mueller briefly shares some great tips for beginning oboists!

Beginning Oboe Players — Choosing an Instrument, Teacher, and Getting Started

Speaker: Larry Mueller (oboe repairman and oboist)

The video provides guidance for students and parents who are beginning to learn the oboe. Larry Mueller emphasizes that success on the oboe starts with having a properly functioning instrument, getting expert instruction early, and avoiding the development of bad habits. For a beginning oboe player, the most important investments are a properly maintained instrument, guidance from a qualified oboe specialist, and developing correct fundamentals from the start. Choosing the right teacher and avoiding early mistakes will have a major impact on the student’s ability to succeed.

Key Points

1. A properly functioning instrument matters more than the brand

  • Beginners should prioritize an oboe that is in good playing condition rather than focusing on the name or prestige of the instrument.
  • A well-maintained student-level oboe is often a better choice than an older professional instrument that requires extensive repairs.
  • Mueller recommends working with an oboe specialist who can help evaluate and select an appropriate instrument.

2. Find a qualified oboe teacher early

  • The oboe is considered one of the most difficult instruments to learn (referencing its reputation as the most difficult instrument in the Guinness Book of World Records).
  • Because of the technical demands of the instrument—especially:
    • Hand position
    • Embouchure (mouth formation)
    • Air support
    • Reed technique
      beginners should receive guidance from an experienced oboe teacher from the beginning.

3. Avoid learning bad habits

  • Mueller warns that improper technique learned early can be difficult to correct later.
  • A specialist teacher can establish:
    • Correct posture and finger placement
    • Proper airflow
    • Good tone production
    • Appropriate reed handling

4. Don’t buy an oboe before getting expert advice

  • Many parents assume they need to purchase an instrument before the first lesson.
  • Mueller advises against this because:
    • Beginners may not know what instrument is appropriate.
    • Teachers can recommend reliable instruments.
    • Teachers can help with reed selection and setup.

5. Choose the right teacher—not just the most skilled one

  • Mueller recommends researching local oboe specialists and potentially interviewing multiple teachers.
  • The best teacher is not only an excellent oboe player but also someone whose:
    • Teaching style fits the student.
    • Personality works well with the learner.
    • Approach encourages long-term progress.