Oboe
Follow these steps to prepare your instrument for playing.
1. Before you do anything, take your reed out of its case and place it in a small container of water up to the thread (an old/clean prescription bottle or similar container will work best). Let it soak for 2-3 minutes and then set it aside on a clean surface. The cane will soak up the water it needs and the reed will be sufficiently moist. DO NOT use your saliva. Saliva is the first step in digestion and cane is a vegetable...
2. Set your case on the floor and make sure the top side is facing up. Open the top and take a picture so you remember how it fits.
3. Remove the upper and lower joint from the case. Holding the upper joint above the keys in one hand and the lower joint carefully in the lower hand, line up the bridge keys and gently twist into place.
4. Take the bell out of your case and place it in one hand. Holding the rest of the oboe in the other hand, line up the bridge keys and gently push into place. If your instrument does not have a Bb bell key, line up the logo with the front of the instrument.
5. Grease the cork of your reed and hold it at the thread. Place the bell of your oboe on your thigh for stability and push the reed into upper joint lining up the back of the reed with the octave key.
6. Finished product