AboutRob Expertise specific questions about the oboe; the instrument, mechanical problems, its history, reeds, repertoire. Anything and everything oboe.
I can also answer general questions regarding music history and theory and literature.
Experience 13 years of playing and performing as an oboist in orchestras and as a chamber musician.
Education/Credentials Bachelor of Music degree in Performance as well as private studies with teachers in New York and Boston.
Expert: Rob Date: 5/24/2008 Subject: Conn Pan American oboe
Question I have seen several Conn Pan American oboes on ebay listed as NOS (I presume new old stock) but only the lower joint and the bell. Will a bundy upper joint work with the Conn? That may be a stupid question, but I am a senior newbie, and frequently ask such. Thanks for any help, George
Answer Hello George,
The Conn Pan American oboes utilized a laminated wood for the manufacturing of string and woodwind instruments. The Air force used the same technology to manufacture propellers for WWII aircrafts.
I would not suggest swapping instrument parts like a puzzle. If the upper joint does in fact fit into the bottom joint, the mechanical tolerances may not, meaning the connecting arms are to long, short or do not line up with the connecting arms on the lower joint.
If you are interested in upgrading to a “different” instrument, I would suggest searching out the advice of a reputable double reed dealer who can help you purchase an instrument that is in your price range and is not a Franken-oboe.
Hope this helps, and sorry for the delay in answering this question.
By the way, if you are interested in the history of the Pan American oboe, I answered a question about it six months back or so. You can search through for the question and answer by going to allexperts.com, typing oboe in the search window and scrolling down to the third page and look for the answer titled: Pan-American Conn Brown Wood internet auction site Black Luster.
