His pieces make constant use of arpeggiations, trills, and scales, and require the oboist to practice circular breathing.
His father, grandfather, and uncle were military oboists.
His grandfather was a violinist and his father was an oboist, organist and pianist.
Oboists or bassoonists who have not yet reached their 22nd birthday by the date of the final round of the competition are eligible to enter.
Skilled oboists adjust their embouchure to compensate for these factors.
For the slow movement, the second oboist switches to flute.
In practice the orchestras tune to a note given out by the oboe, and many oboists use an electronic tuning device.
The oboist finally managed to repair a defect of his instrument, but the clarinettist, because of a broken key spring only pretended to be playing.
