Abstract
The purpose of this document is to assist oboists in developing the altissimo range. Though oboists are likely familiar with the altissimo notes, sufficient research suggests that most oboe method books do not prepare them to play comfortably in this range. With composers of the 21st century pushing the limits of technique (and more specifically the range) on the oboe, oboists must equip themselves with suitable exercises to develop their skill in the higher range of the instrument. This essay will include an analysis of the oboe technical literature that focuses on high notes and will include adapted exercises from the flute and clarinet. Examining method books of flute and clarinet literature not only provides oboists with exercises that employ a wider range, but also technical obstacles found throughout the woodwind family. Chapter 1 includes information on oboists’ practice habits and a comparison between the oboe and other woodwind instruments. Chapter 2 includes an annotated list of the popular existing oboe methods and technical exercise books. In this chapter, these methods are examined in terms of the level of difficulty, the width of oboe range required, and the complementary instructional text that accompanies the methods. Chapter 3 describes how technical materials from other instruments were selected, as well as the process of adapting the exercises for the oboe. Chapter 4 provides instructional information on practicing and making reeds for the adapted materials, as well as a fingering chart, and an articulation chart to supplement the compendium. Finally, Chapter 5 is the compendium of adapted materials accompanied by text that explains the benefits of each exercise as well as how it has been adapted from the original.