Oboe Rental

What Is an Oboe?

The oboe is a woodwind instrument known for its distinctively clear and penetrating tone, which is used to tune the orchestra and is often considered one of the most beautiful sounds in classical music. A “double reed” instrument, the oboe is a staple of orchestras, concert bands, wind ensembles and chamber ensembles. The instrument is especially renowned for its ability to carry a lyrical, emotionally rich melody or solo.

What Is a Double Reed Instrument?

Unlike a single reed instrument such as the clarinet, which might look similar to the oboe but generates its sound when a single piece of cane vibrates against a mouthpiece, double reed instruments create sound when two pieces of cane are bound together and vibrate against each other. In addition to the oboe, double reed instruments include the bassoon, contrabassoon and English horn.

Why the Oboe Is a Great Instrument for Your Child

The oboe can be an excellent rental instrument for a child who is focused, patient and enjoys a challenge. Double reed instruments like the oboe are generally considered more difficult to play than single reed instruments, requiring more precision and control in the embouchure, or the combination of a player’s lips, tongue, teeth and the muscles around the mouth. In addition, the double reeds themselves are delicate and often need regular adjustment or replacement — sometimes requiring players to learn how to make or modify their own reeds as they advance. Many young oboe players will gain some facility on the flute or clarinet prior to studying the instrument.

Renting an Oboe vs. Buying

When considering an oboe rental, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of renting vs. buying an instrument. If your child is already dedicated to the oboe, purchasing may be the better route. For beginners, renting is a low-risk way to discover an instrument.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent an Oboe?

Oboe rental rates at Music & Arts are consistently affordable across the country, with pricing that varies by location and school. Special introductory offers make it even easier to get started. Considering that a top-quality student-level oboe can cost close to $2,000, renting an oboe from Music & Arts is a smart, budget-friendly alternative.

Oboe Products and Accessories

Your oboe rental will arrive with a protective case and a double reed. Your child’s music teacher at school will also recommend key accessories that you’ll be able to purchase during the rental process, as well as a method book.

To keep your instrument in great shape, we highly recommend adding the Giardinelli Oboe Care Kit. This cost-effective, all-in-one bundle includes essential products that will help your child maintain their instrument.

Inside, you’ll find:

• Polishing cloth to remove fingerprints from the keys and body
• Cleaning swabs for the upper joint and lower joint/bell
• Cork grease for smooth assembly and disassembly of the instrument
• Thumb rest cushion for added comfort and stability
• Pamphlet containing guidance for instrument maintenance

Learn more about the accessories your child needs in this Buyer’s Guide.

Next Steps for Your Oboe Rental

Private lessons: As the leading provider of private music lessons in the United States, Music & Arts is the perfect place for your child to advance their skills. Visit our Music Lessons page or find a store near you.

Continue renting: If your child is enjoying the instrument, you can extend your oboe rental period with Music & Arts.

Buy an instrument: Music & Arts rental fees act as credit toward the purchase of an instrument. If you wish to buy a rentable, student-level oboe, your accrued rental payments can cover up to 100 percent of the instrument’s purchase price. Buy early, before your rental term expires, to receive a discount of up to 30 percent.

Oboe Rental FAQs

How do I rent an oboe from Music & Arts?

You can rent online in just a few simple steps. First, visit our Instrument Rentals page. Then, search for and select your school. Choose your instrument, confirm or select your trial period, and add any method books or supplies. Finally, enter the student and renter information, choose your delivery method and complete the billing details.

What comes with my oboe rental?

Your oboe rental includes the instrument, a case and a double reed. To ensure you have all the essential accessories for maintaining your instrument, we highly recommend adding the Giardinelli Oboe Care Kit.

Will my rental oboe be new?

Most rental instruments are like-new. We recommend renting a previously used instrument, as each one is professionally adjusted for optimal playability. A young learner with a poorly maintained instrument may struggle to progress.

How long will it take to receive my oboe after completing the rental agreement?

If you choose Ship to Home for an oboe rental, orders are processed within 48 hours and typically arrive within one to five days, depending on your location. For Pick Up at School, delivery is arranged by your child’s music teacher. If you select Pick Up at Store, the store will contact you when your instrument is ready — usually within 48 hours.