I am currently working on the basic design drawings (CAD) for a set of double-reed instruments I will be building. The basic design uses the idea of using flat stock material to make the tube for the instrument. My instruments will have a simplified Baroque-ish fingering system due to the complexity of modern keywork (I don't want to try to build a set of keys for a full Conservatory oboe.) The concept for the basic design can be seen here: The Squarpent
I have just finished the CAD drawing for my oboe, based on measurements of a Baroque oboe. Oter instruments I plan to design and build are the oboe d'amore, English horn, bass oboe, bassoon, and maybe a contrabassoon if everything else goes well. I have had thoughts of making a monstorous sub-contra bassoon, though I don't think I could haul something like that in my car. (Time to fix my truck!)
I am not setting my hopes too high as far as the tone quality of these instruments goes, since they will be made from plywood, but they will at least be fun novelty instruments. Maybe I can put together an ensemble of square double reeds.
I have been getting quite a bit of support from the double reed community on this. I posted my intentions on a couple yahoo email lists, and have had a wonderful response. There are people sending me bocals (which can not be made square) to build my prototypes with.
If there is anyone who has any questions or words of wisdom for me, feel free to post or email me privately at 1st_oboe@beethoven.com
I'll post periodic updates on my progress on this thread.
Cheers!
Aaron
(Are you happy now bignaf? It's a music-related post...
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