For some time I've been toying with the idea of trying the oboe and have had a quick look around Ebay.

To my surprise I've seen photos of Yamaha oboes in their cases whick look, at first sight, as though they don't have any cork at the end, just black plastic.

Then I wondered if it was because they had some caps on, to protect the ends.

Is this true? I've never seen a clarinet with these. Are oboes more delicate?

Steve

Sorry - ignore that question.

Somebody's told me that yes, they are indeed cork protectors.

Steve

Indeed they are for cork protection, but if you want an oboe, ebay really isn't the best place to look!

Yes, I agree, at least for a beginner. However, by searching Ebay in Europe and the USA, I find it very useful for obtaining info on different models and second hand prices. Then I search the various forums for more info and advice.

Steve

And while on the subject of corks.....

Do you use "cork grease" e.g. La Tromba? Or do you use Vaseline?

I have a recorder-playing friend who INSISTS that Vaseline rots cork...and I have an oboe-playing friend who INSISTS that Vaseline is simply the best cork grease there is.

Who should I believe?

aaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrrrgggggggggggggghhhhhhhhhhhhhhh the cork grease debate once again. It occurs so often on the woodwind.org clarinet bulletin board and the Klarinet mailing list.

The arguement starts with 'never use vaseline only use cork grease', continues 'to but most cork grease is petroleum based so no better than vaseline only use so-and-so's organic compound stuff'. About a million 'yeah that stuff is the best I use it every time I put the instrument together' replies, with a few 'but hey cork is cheap to get replaced so what if it rots over a number of years'.

Personally I side with the cork is cheap response and have never had any problems with tenon corks. I just use whatever cork grease is to hand or lip balm if I've got no cork grease (though the vaseline with aloe vera currently in my coat pocket does make the instrument smell funny!)

My teacher has told me I MUST use cork grease and never vaseline. My cork is wearing away anyway. I don't have any cork protectors; I wonder weather this has anything to do with my very battered cork

Strange isn't it. I just realised that although vaseline must have appeared over 40 years ago, I have absolutely no idea what it really is!

I agree with CJB. We shouldn't lose sleep over it. Cork tenons are not difficult to replace.

Personally, I find a dab of olive oil never does any harm, followed by standard cork grease.

I was going to give you my recipe for organic bore oil, but CJB mentioned the woodwind.org forum. They have spies everywhere.

It can only end in tears. A patronising shot from GBK, followed by the dreaded 'This thread is closed' from Mark Charette.

Last one out, switch off the lights!

Steve