I am trying to envision and quantify the musical potential of being able to play the oboe versus the ability of being able to play the clarinet.

What instrument might offer a more versatile musical experience for a child? By versatile, I was thinking of an instrument that a child might desire to play throughout his/her life at home for relaxation and enjoyment rather than as a professional job in an orchestra. Thats why I love the piano and I am thankful my parents gave me piano lessons as a child. I’m not professional but I play every few days just for enjoyment outside of my professional life.

I can see the clarinet being a nice instrument a child might desire to play in the evenings after a long day at work for relaxation but I am not so sure about the oboe.

Can you see this with an oboe? or is the oboe too awkward of a sound for personal at-home use and more suitable to only ensemble or orchestral playing in a professional environment?

You see, I am not sure if my daughter will become a professional musician and I just want her to have the opportunity to be able to play a second instrument (she already plays the piano) for leisure and simply for the enjoyment of playing music.

If you were to choose between an oboe and a clarinet for such reasons what would you choose?

Do read the entire question.

I’m not sure how I’d answer, to be honest. The reed issue with oboe is definitely something to consider. I have been at this for an awfully long time and I still really hate the reed part. The clarinet may be easier to “keep up” on a lighter level, and the reeds are certainly less costly. But at the same time, oboe is … well … oboe! You can’t beat the sound of an oboe. Right?

What I might ask the questioner is, “What does your daughter like? Has she heard both instruments and thought about which sound appeals to her more? Does one just grab her heart?”

Anyone out there want to go give your answer to the parent? Go for it!