Know Your Oboe Instrument and Get a Suitable Insurance Plan

With the advent of modern technologies and the onset of digitization, of course, musical instruments have come up with their evolved avatars as well. People (those who do not even belong to the music world) can also recognize various musical instruments and accessories at first glance. Many can even differentiate between the violin and the guitar or a trumpet and flute.

However, there is one such musical instrument with an unknown reputation that people often fail to identify.

Can you name that?

Okay. Here is a hint for you. It is a woodwind gear and integral to the orchestra.

We are talking about the Oboe, once named an undernourished Clarinet.

Let us turn to the pages of history!

Shawm, reed flute, and similar woodwinds are the precursors of the Oboe, an instrument made in the 17th century in France. This woodwind instrument was first introduced to the orchestra somewhere in the mid-17th century and never looked back after that. Initially, this malnourished cousin of the Clarinet had only two to three keys. However, after being played for centuries, it got more keys in the 19th century. 

Oboe specs to familiarize with the gear

The length of a standard oboe is around 65 cm. It is basically made up of high-quality wood. However, you may find some less expensive versions in plastic as well. Here are the main parts of the oboe:

●    The bore: As the name suggests, it is a small aperture or hole located at the top-end of the musical instrument.
●    The upper joint: This part comprises half of the keys of the oboe.
●    The bottom joint: This part contains the rest of the keys of the gear.

An oboist inserts a wooden reed (in this case, it is double) into the bore before blowing air through it. The standard range of this woodwind instrument is Bb3 to G6.

How do oboists weave magic with their musical arsenal?

Here is how to play the oboe:

The players insert a double reed inside the bore and hold the former between their lips to blow wind (the main ingredient to play the woodwind!), ensuring their lips are sealed while the teeth not touching the reed. Then, they place their fingers on the keys and open and close according to the need of the tune. Although it may seem easy to play the oboe, the reality is the other way round. However, with dedication and hard work, you can play the gear flawlessly. Make sure to buy an Oboe Insurance plan for peace of mind and protection of gears and finances in adverse times.

Clarinet and Oboe. Do you know how they differ?

Many people mistake a clarinet for an oboe and vice-versa. Although design-wise, they may look similar to each other, they use different types of reeds. Unlike the clarinet, the oboe does not feature a barrel and mouthpiece. However, for untrained eyes, both may appear alike.

Whether you or your oboe? Where does the problem lie if you do not sound good?

You may not sound good. It might make you wonder - if it is the oboe or you who is not getting to the point? Well! Both the scenarios are possible and, sometimes, it is hard to figure out where the problem lies. Therefore, it is advisable to get a professional assessment and adjustment (if needed) of your gear every four to six months. And, of course, work on your techniques to play the gear for improved performance, year by year.

In order to ensure the health of your woodwind musical instrument, regular maintenance is crucial. However, to ensure its overall protection, getting an all-inclusive Oboe Insurance is even more critical. Therefore, research your options and buy an insurance policy without making any more delays, as misfortune can cross your path at any point in time. And, being prepared in advance always makes sense, and it is imperative.

A good insurance carrier is all you need

You will find many insurance service providers in your state. Choose the one that is experienced in dealing with musical instrument insurance plans and is reliable too.

An Interesting Fact!

Did you know the oboe delivers the tuning note to the band at the beginning of a music gig or concert? That's true!

Piccolo Insurance - Your Savior in a Piece of Paper

Are you a music composer? What is the most important thing you need to produce beautiful pieces of music? Is it your musical paraphernalia? Although you are correct, there is something even more crucial than that. And it is the peace of mind. Mental peace is the master ingredient for creating soulful music with your piccolo. Right?

So, how does it come to you - mental peace and calmness? You can ensure the same by protecting your musical instruments under an all-encompassing insurance plan. For example, if you own an expensive piccolo, getting a specialized Piccolo Insurance plan can feel like a savior for you and your musical profession.

Competitive edge is imperative. Insurance is even more.

With the expansion of the music industry, musicians have become more occupied with tons of other things related to their profession. They are so busy gaining the competitive edge that they often ignore getting their musical gears insured. However, they forget that if their musical instruments are well-protected, they will anyway get the edge they are looking for. The reason - when you know that a precious thing of your own is safe and secure no matter what, you can focus on your work well. Isn't it? And when you are focused, success will come to you sooner or later for sure.

Match your pace with the industry. Stay protected

The very nature of the music industry is very dynamic. And so many professionals, gigs, performances, and everything in between, add more to the vibrancy and energy of this realm. Although there are many good things about the domain, people often forget about the uncertainties (the most integral aspect of our life).

Some adverse scenarios involving your musical instruments

Have you ever imagined losing or damaging your beloved piccolo ahead of a performance or a public liability case in your name after an event? These questions are imaginary, of course. However, these can be very much real for a professional musician and can pop up at any point in time out of the blue. These are not only unfortunate but expensive as well. And if you do not have enough insurance coverage, things can seem very tormenting to you.

Scenario No. 1

What if your piccolo suffers damage that is beyond repair following water damage at your home? Do you think your home insurance will have your back in such accidents? Well! You are right, but partially. Although your home insurance plan may cover your gear if you have included it under the same, the extent of coverage will be limited. However, if you have a Piccolo Insurance plan in place, you will save a big deal. It will offer comprehensive coverage and also help you get a replacement instrument.

Scenario No. 2

What if miscreants steal your woodwind instrument by breaking into your car? What if you left your piccolo unattended and did not find it again? Remember one thing - your home insurance will not be responsible for any mishap happening outside your home. However, your musical instrument insurance is there for you all the time at all the places. So, if your gear is stolen, the insurance policy will make sure to pay for the replacement gear.

Ensure buying an insurance plan from a reputable and experienced service provider. Otherwise, you might not get the range of coverage you want for your musical instruments. Not all insurance providers can live up to your requirements. Therefore, you need to choose a provider wisely. At the end of the day, if you make a claim, settlement depends on the expertise and proficiency of the insurance provider.

Scenario No. 3

Have you heard about public liability cases involving musicians? It can happen to you as well. What if you are performing at a gig and someone from the audience trips over a stack of equipment and breaks his leg? Wait! What if he held you responsible for the accident? What if you are actually at fault? You have to pay for his medical bills and address those expensive lawsuits. Your home insurance will not cover it for sure. However, an instrument-specific insurance plan will take care of the financial part of a public liability case.

Safeguard yourself and your musical instruments from the unwanted scenarios by purchasing an instrument-specific insurance plan.

Interesting Facts About the Bassoon Instrument You Should Know

Did you know that the bassoon is the biggest of all the members of the woodwind family? Yes. That's true. Want to know more about it? Before you start learning how to play the bassoon, let us talk about some of the most interesting facts about the low-pitched, double-reed musical instrument.

However, whether you are a student or a professional bassoon player, an all-encompassing Bassoon Insurance is a must-buy. It is a one-stop solution for all your musical instrument-related financial woes.

Now, let us take a look at the Bassoon as a unique woodwind gear.

Double reed - the meaning

What do you mean by the double reed? When two units of bamboo canes are fixed together with the help of a thread or a wide and have a small gap between the two pieces to allow the passage of air, it is known as a double reed. When the air passes through them, the reeds vibrate against each other and produce an enchanting and unique sound and tone specific to the bassoon.

Bassoon - the anatomy

The bassoon comprises five parts. The bocal or the crook shaped as 'S', is generally carved out of silver and other metals like gold and platinum. The reeds of the bassoon are connected to the crook's end.

The body of the bassoon is made up of four different components. The boot or the double joint comprises the U-shape and joins to the longest part of the gear, the long joint, as the name suggests.

The tenor joint is attached to the crook directly. All the holes of your woodwind gear, along with the keys, are present in the three pieces of the gear.

Bassoon - the most unique in the woodwind family

The length of the bassoon is around 53 inches, making it a significantly elongated woodwind musical instrument. Due to the long tube of the bassoon, it is designed in a folded shape. If the tube is fully extended, the approximate length of the tube would reach up to 102 inches. Due to its long tube, the bassoon is the largest member of its family. You might have heard it often that bassoon is pretty much different from its cousins, including the flute and the clarinet. It is because of the number of keys the bassoon has. It has nine keys on the left and five keys on the right side.

Bassoon - Other distinctive features

Bassoon comes with a conical bore. What does it mean? It means that its long tube is shaped in the form of a cone. What does it do? This shape helps the bassoon to produce its one-of-its-kind and seamless deep sound. This woodwind member also comprises a bell at the opening on its top. Did you know which is the only note coming from the cell? It is the lowest one, the B-flat notation.

Bassoon - The types

There are two types of this particular woodwind musical instrument. They are Heckels and Buffets. The former are German bassoons, whereas the latter are French bassoons. The Heckles are made up of mahogany, and the Buffets are carved out of rosewood. As far as the most preferred variant of the bassoon is concerned, the Art of Bassoon Playing by William Spencer says, a majority of bassoon players prefer German over the Fresh cousins. Do you know what could be the possible reasons? Well, the German bassoons are pocket-friendly and create better sound than their French counterparts.

Bassoon - The nickname

Do you have any idea about what nickname the bassoon could have? It is also known as the clown of the orchestra. The reasons? The detached and sharp sound it produces. As it is low register, some people find it to be humorous.

Bassoon - Self-made reeds

Most bassoonists create their own reeds. You might find it to be an unusual thing, but it is a fact. According to most bassoon players, the reeds you get from outside fail to live up to the expectations. So, it is not something they should invest in.

So, can you imagine that when you dedicate so much effort to a musical instrument, it becomes necessary to ensure that it is protected inside out? Therefore, getting a comprehensive Bassoon Insurance plan is as important as cleaning and maintaining it.

Clear Your Doubts with FAQs on Flute Insurance

Are you a degree student studying music? Are you learning to play the flute? If yes, then you should consider buying musical instrument insurance. Like many prospective insurance buyers, you might have a series of questions revolving in your mind. Right?

Therefore, we have rounded up some frequently asked questions about musical instrument insurance plans. Hopefully, these will help you clear all your doubts and assist you in choosing the most appropriate Flute Insurance plan for your woodwind.

Can a student get an insurance plan for musical instruments?

Reliable insurance companies offer a wide range of insurance products to different people with varying professional statuses, including students, musical instrument collectors, music shop owners, and top-end musicians. So, if you are a student learning how to play the flute, you can get your musical instrument insured under a comprehensive Flute Insurance policy. A dedicated music instrument insurance plan will make sure that whether you are sitting and playing your woodwind in your living room or for a live audience, it stays safe.

If you consider your home insurance for protecting your flute, you may not get complete coverage. Generally, home insurance plans do not cover accidental damages or any damage or loss occurring outside the insured premises, i.e. your home. However, an instrument-specific insurance plan covers all-risk scenarios, including theft, vandalism, robbery, flood, storm, water damage, fire damage, and public liabilities, to mention a few.

Is your flute covered internationally?

Although it entirely depends on the insurance plan you intend to buy, with a reputable and experienced service provider, you can avail of worldwide insurance coverage for your gears. So, no matter where you are traveling with your instrument, your insurance plan ensures that it remains protected. The worldwide coverage clause asserts that you get coverage against accidental damage, any damage or loss during transportation, theft, and all types of risks you get in your native place.

However, if you simply rely on your home insurance plan and travel to a foreign land, and unfortunately, if your flute is stolen or damaged there, you will not get any insurance coverage.

How can you make a claim?

If your musical instrument is damaged, lost, or stolen, it is pretty understandable that you would be disturbed and heartbroken. That is where a customer-friendly insurance partner comes into play. Making an insurance claim with a good service provider is easy and hassle-free. All you need to follow the below tips:

●    If you have fallen prey to any malicious activity, such as theft or vandalism, the first thing you need to do is call the police.
●    After you call the cops, you should contact your insurance provider and inform them about the incident.
●    Once you call them, they will provide you with a claim reference number and tell you about the next steps.
●    After the inspection, if they find enough evidence supporting your claim, they will settle the claim at the earliest.

What is public liability? Do you need public liability cover before you start playing in gigs?

Public liability cover is also known as third-party or personal liability cover. It protects you against any kind of music-related legal issue that happens to injure someone or cause damage to their property and where you are held responsible. To know more about public liability and related information, you may consult the insurance provider you intend to hire.

As far as possessing public liability cover before you start playing in concerts is concerned, many auditoriums and gig spaces are likely to require public liability cover before the former allows the latter to play. However, regardless of the requirement of the venue, you should make sure to have a comprehensive insurance plan, including public liability.

Do musical instrument insurance plans also cover musical accessories?

Although the offerings of a musical insurance plan may vary from one insurance provider to the other, an insurance company with years of experience in the market does cover musical accessories. The accessories include - stands, mics, sheet music, cables, mixing desk, and sound systems, among others. An important thing to remember here is: your home insurance plan will not cover accessories.

Whether you are a student or a top-end musician, having a standalone musical instrument insurance plan is equally essential for all.