FINDING THE RIGHT INSTRUMENT

BY DAVID SUSSMAN, ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL OBOE

Musicians have a close relationship with their instruments. As we develop more technical and musical skill, we need an instrument that produces the nuances we demand. A real game-changing moment arrives when we find an instrument we really enjoy playing for the long haul.

My ideal instrument may not be the one a colleague would opt for. Each of us has an inner template of the quality of sound we imagine producing and the right instrument allows us to do that easily. Each instrument is also unique. Even largescale manufactured instruments of the same model each differ slightly, so musicians often try many instruments before finding the right one. I selected my current instrument at a Double Reed Convention (yes, there are such things!) where many makers had wares and there were hundreds of oboes to try. I went around and noted the serial numbers of ones that I liked. Then I continued to play them and narrowed it down to the one I enjoyed playing on the best. How did I decide on a winner? Reliable intonation and a beautiful tone with good dynamic range were essentials. The one I chose suited my style of playing and allowed me to create musical colours easily. I could do things with it that I couldn’t on other instruments. I continue to enjoy playing on it every day.

Sometimes, musicians prefer a certain type of keywork or weight or size of instrument. A person of smaller stature might be uncomfortable with too large an instrument. Although violins vary only slightly in size, there can be quite a variation in sizes of viola. Sometimes the visual esthetics of the instrument matter. Someone may prefer a certain shade of finish or a particular type of wood.

Cost can also play a role in the decision. Many older violins have antique value that jacks up the price, so some string players opt for modern, individually made instruments that are actually affordable. There are also ‘boutique’ instrument makers for horn and flute and other instruments — they often have a waiting list, and when a musician’s turn comes up, that is the instrument they get. Not hundreds to try.

Some instruments may last for an entire career (one bassoon in our orchestra is turning 100 this year!) while others need replacing on a regular basis (I am on my fifth oboe).

Some musicians are ‘artists’ for certain manufacturers. They provide feedback on what modifications they would like to see and get the latest ‘concept’ instruments to try (and preferred pricing should they purchase). They can literally have the manufacturer create the instrument they dream of. Other musicians get legacy instruments handed down from family or teachers, or loaned to them by a foundation or benefactor.

Climate is another factor to consider. Our dream instrument may not do well in Calgary’s cold, dry climate and high altitude, and may take ages to adjust. Wood could crack or seams open. Some instruments work best at a certain humidity.

Finding a great instrument allows us to make music effortlessly and gives us confidence that what we imagine in our heads will be the reality that the audience hears. It encourages us to work even harder because playing is so rewarding. A game-changer indeed.