The oboe, an instrument played by oboists, is a type of double-reed woodwind musical instrument. They are usually made of wood.

An oboe produces its distinctive tone by the blowing of air into a reed, which vibrates thus creating sound waves within the air column of the instrument. Oboes have a versatile tone which is described as "bright".



It is believed the oboe originated in France sometime in the mid-17th century. Similar double-reed instruments were already in use like the shawm. In French the instrument was called the hautbois, meaning "wood of high-pitched or loud sound".

Today, the oboe is commonly used as orchestral or solo instrument in symphony orchestras, concert bands and chamber ensembles.

The oboe can found in use in orchestras and concert bands, as an ensemble as well as a solo instrument. For many centuries the oboe has been used to tune the orchestra. The penetrating sound and relatively stable pitch meant it was useful for this purpose. In modern orchestras electronic devices are employed for tuning, but it still the oboist whose responsibility it is to activate the tuning mechanism!