Howarth S10 Thumbplate System Oboe – Grenadilla, Covered Keys, Student/Intermediate

The Howarth S10 is a thoughtfully designed oboe for younger or developing players who need full chromatic range in a lighter, easier-to-handle instrument. Built from traditional Grenadilla (Dalbergia melanoxylon) and fitted with silver-plated, fully covered keys, it uses the English (thumbplate) system and straightforward octave action to keep technique clear and manageable through to around Grade 6.

Key Features

• Lightweight Grenadilla body for classic tone with reduced overall weight (~0.54 kg)

• Thumbplate (English) system with simple, non-linked octaves

• Fully covered keys and close finger spacing for smaller hands

• Full chromatic range from Low B♭

• Left-hand C/D trill, forked F vent, and Low C–B link

• Silver-plated keywork; uses standard oboe reeds

• Supplied with student backpack case, cleaning materials, cork grease, and reed case

Why Choose the S10

• Confidence for younger hands: Covered keys and compact spacing make early progress more comfortable and consistent.

• Straightforward mechanism: The thumbplate layout with simple octave action reduces mechanical complexity while covering the full syllabus range.

• Reliable build quality: Howarth’s Grenadilla construction and silver-plated keywork deliver stable intonation and dependable durability for lessons, ensembles, and concerts.

Specifications

• Body: Grenadilla (Dalbergia melanoxylon)

• System: Thumbplate (English)

• Keywork: Silver-plated, fully covered

• Octaves: Simple action (not linked)

• Range: Low B♭ upward (full chromatic)

• Trills/Vents: LH C/D trill, forked F vent, Low C→B link

• Reeds: Standard oboe reeds

• Approx. Weight: ~0.54 kg

• Included: Student backpack case, cleaning materials, cork grease, reed case