Oboe basso

As Printed on a Score

Labels the bass oboe, in English scores simply Bass Oboe (B. Ob.). The part is written in treble clef an octave above the sound. Cues for it may appear in other parts, and some orchestras play its line on a Heckelphone, a different instrument of similar range.

Abbreviations: B. Ob., Bass Ob.

Also spelled: Bass Oboe, Baritone Oboe, Bassoboe

How Composers Use It

Sounds an octave below the oboe, down to about B2, with a reedy, slightly nasal baritone tone that is softer than the Heckelphone’s. Holst used it in The Planets and Delius in several scores, adding a dark reed color at the bottom of the woodwind choir. Instruments and players are scarce, so cue its essential lines in another part (cor anglais or bassoon) and give it exposed, uncrowded passages.

Example

Holst, The Planets, “Uranus”, cor anglais part, m. 47: “Bass Oboe Solo” is printed in the staff.

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