Still Renting An Oboe? Back To School Solutions

Relying on a school instrument or student oboe rental is reasonable the first and second year of play while determining whether your child enjoys oboe and is flourishing as a budding musician.  However, after that, important decisions need to be made.  Should you trade up to a higher end rental and pay more? Should you invest in the purchase of a new or used oboe for the long term.  Here are some things to consider:

• Kids that are smart, have practiced at home at least a couple of times a week, aren't distracted by a lot of competing extracurricular activities (especially sports), and have a teacher are most likely to do well.  They are more likely to  continue to play at least through high school.  An investment in a highly capable (though not necessarily an elite) oboe will help them achieve their goals and enjoy a lifetime of music making.
• Oboes that are usually available for rent and rent to buy (including student Fox, Yamaha and Howarth models) are expensive and will be outgrown quickly, and will not have the musical and economic value you anticipated as your child develops musically.
• To me, these student oboes do not have the scale, tone and mechanics students need at the mid-high intermediate level.
  

The Mistral CM Oboe is a hidden gem in the marketplace for these developing players. It has a great tone (a lot like a Loree), with similar ergonomics and easy response.  It offers these attributes at an affordable price.  It is an excellent alternative to renting.  It is designed to take developing players from middle to high school and beyond.  It is also recommended for adult amateurs and professional doublers on a budget.  Learn More.