PEOPLE ARE SAYING:

Before The Invincible Oboist, I was unsure how to describe my reed problems and confidently fix them. I did not feel comfortable with my air and how to best manage it. I felt like every time I picked up the oboe I was not in control of what would come out.

Over the ten weeks, I learned so much about reed making. I survived on my own reeds all Summer, which was something I had not been able to do before. My reed making average definitely went up! I learned so much about my air, fingers, and tongue and how to break down difficult pieces keeping each of them intact. I learned techniques on how to manage performance nerves. I learned to play high F# to A, which I’d never attempted before. All of these things have given me more confidence when practicing and performing. 

I would say I had a very positive experience. Jennet is very effective in describing and demonstrating concepts that are hard to put into words. She is very gifted and passionate in teaching and it made learning pleasant and easy. So many things clicked for me during our sessions. I loved all the topics we covered. I feel more knowledgeable and confident in practicing, performing, and reed making after completing this course. I also gained some supportive oboe friends during this process that I learned from as well, and I look forward to keeping in touch and hearing about their oboe adventures. I would highly recommend this valuable and enjoyable Invincible Oboist experience. 

 – Francesca Randell, Information System Specialist, wife and mother, oboe hobbyist 

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I had recently come back to the oboe after a decade away from music. Coming back has been largely positive but the struggle of trying to overcome some of these challenges was frustrating. 

Over the course of The Invincible Oboist, I developed more confidence and willingness to be vulnerable. Those were big. As my confidence evaporates, so do all of the physical and technical parts of playing that are essential for success.  It becomes a vicious circle.  But with renewed confidence, the air and technique were more likely to be stable which improved what I was doing, which feeds into more confidence. 

There were other, more specific things – practice techniques and how to tackle some of these challenges. 

I’ve been very guilty of being shy about playing in front of the group as well, but by the end of the program I started feeling comfortable and embracing a willingness to be vulnerable. 

The Invincible Oboist is a wonderful and immersive experience for people at all levels of oboe playing. Regardless of the level you’re at, everyone has something to gain and something to contribute in the group.  It is wonderfully collaborative and collegial. Jennet is so willing to meet you wherever you are and work on the things that you’re having trouble with and help you become a better and more confident oboist. 

 – Ted Harrison