Oboe

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What are the TOK and SOK in Oboe? How do we teach this to a beginner?

TOK is a thumb octave key and SOK is a side octave key. First have the student play the lower note. Then the teacher presses the designated octave key for the second note. Notice that the upper notes will be flat and that a faster air stream is required for the upper notes. The student then practices the exercise with pitch adjustments using increased air speed and/or a firmer lip cushion. 

Three ways the pitch can be varied on any double reed.

1. Changing Embouchure: (firmer cushion for higher and softer tone, softer cushion for lower and louder tones)

2. Air speed: Fast (higher pitch) Slow (lower pitch)

3. Amount of reed that is in mouth: More reed in mouth for higher and louder tones. Less reed in mouth for lower and softer tones.