The English horn and oboe might look the same but they do differ in a few ways. Because of their appearance, it is easy for people to confuse the two instruments. Their physical construction and sound are the main differences.
Do you know the difference between an English horn and an oboe? Many people don’t, and that’s understandable because they look very similar. Let’s discuss the differences between these two instruments.
Physical Differences
The English horn is a bit longer than the oboe. Its reed is wider, and its bell has a different shape.
If you compare the two instruments closely, you’ll notice subtle differences. These small distinctions can be easily missed, making it understandable why people mix them up.
Sound Quality
The more noticeable difference is their sound. The English Horn has a lower, more mellow sound than the oboe.
Oboes have “concert pitch,” so they’re often used in orchestras. They produce higher, smoother, and darker sounds.
English Horn And Oboe Similarities
Though different, the oboe and English horn share many similarities.
- They’re both made of wood, most commonly grenadilla wood.
- Both have a conical bore and use a double reed to produce sound.
- They both come from the woodwind family and are used in a variety of genres including classical and jazz music.
A lot of people think the English horn is just a larger oboe. This assumption is incorrect. Though they look similar and share many traits, they have key differences that set them apart.
