I am originally a flute player that has been playing the oboe for 6 weeks, and I am very frustrated with my pitch. I play a 1/4 to 1/2 note flat, and I cannot bring my pitch up. I am currently using medium soft reeds, as I am building my endurance.

Does anyone have any tips to help bring my pitch up? I hope to play in a community band soon, but I won't join if I can't play in tune.

This is a common problem with beginners especially, I would guess, after playing an easy blowing instrument like the flute. 3 things will help - loads of practice, lots of time spent over a long period (Little & often to start with)& input from a proficient oboe teacher.

Good luck.

Also the style & hardness of the reed can make a lot of difference as well - the best advice can most easily come from #3 in my previous post. A teacher should be able to pick up breathing & reeds problems much easier than trying to sort things on a forum.

I would try with a narrower piece of cane and a lower thickness.

I recommend you Albrecht Mayer shape. It's quite good for people with your problem.

This is my website, if you need more information, please, do not hesitate to contact me.

http://www.t-reeds.com/index.php/shop/cane

Hi Cyndy-
Reeds can affect your pitch. Take a look at this oboe reed guide for more information. http://www.mmimports.com/2013/05/a-guide-to-our-oboe-reeds/

Good luck!

Try the get your oboe reeds from:
http://www.performancereeds.com

Their reeds are very very high quality and easy to play. All hand made, and allow you to customize your reeds. You buy once, and if you want some adjustment the next time, you can consult their specialists and they'll adapt the reeds tailored for you.

Reeds is a very personal thing. No reed and no config will fit everybody. Customization is the best way to go.

Contra is right. If you're new to playing, a lot of it is practice. It's likely you aren't bringing enough air support, which will make you flat.