Ever since I have started playing the oboe, I have been having difficulties getting high notes out. They always squeak. I don't think it's a reed or embouchure problem. My band director hasn't been much help, and I need advice.

There are many problems it could be - reed, embouchure, breath support or the oboe being faulty or badly adjusted. The best way to sort this would be to find a specialist oboe teacher to guide you, even if you go to them for one or two sessions, this would be the easiest way to sort the problem. The oboe is one of the harder woodwinds to play - even if you have experience of clarinet or sax it can be hard. The air flow & pressure required are so different to the others.
Good luck.

Hello NearyMaddix,

Contra488 has given you very good advice, particularly in respect to finding an oboe teacher.

I would locate a qualified oboe teacher before doing anything. I started playing (music and oboe) about 3 years ago. After my first year I was fortunate in meeting a local oboist who connected me with an oboe teacher. I have an exceedingly generous oboe teacher who helps me immensely. Subsequently, I received an invitation from another of her students to play occasionally with a group of very experienced double reed players.

Many communities have community orchestras/woodwind groups that will have an oboist or other double reed player (English Horn, bassoon). With a little Internet research you should be able to locate and contact an oboe player. Google community orchestras for your state/province. Don't be bashful. You may be surprised at how helpful your fellow musicians can be.

Good luck.

Cheers,

Paul

Your band director might be the person to ask about oboe specialists local you. That's the sort of information they should tell you if unable to sort the problem themselves.

Squeaking on high notes can happen when your reed is not adjusted properly, your embouchure is too tight, your fingers are not positioned properly on the keys, or the oboe is out of adjustment. Only a teacher can figure out what is wrong.

Here is a great resource for finding a teacher in your area:
http://www.oboeinsight.com/double-reed-musicians-find-em-here/instructors-in-the-usa/usa-private-oboe-instructors/

I don't recommend Skype lessons, because the teacher can't adjust your reed or instrument remotely.