This issue brings us to the close of three years of publication, and while I am gratified by your enthusiastic response, this seems a good opportunity for some stock-taking. I would like to see these publications move in the direction of greater depth in several areas, including some of the following: more exploration of the instrument's literature; oboe pedagogy; performance practice, not only avant-garde and baroque, but hints on mastering the orchestral literature with some emphasis on audition material; the history of the instruments; reedmaking; the monuments of the literature - ways to approach the Mozart quartet and the Strauss concerto for example; and the development of the instrument. I am sure that among the 1000 IDRS members (Noah Knepper tells me we have recently moved well past that mark) there are experts in every one of the areas I've mentioned. I know that busy professionals seldom have time to set their valuable thoughts and experiences down on paper. Still I continue to be confident that more of you will take this opportunity to share your expertise with your colleagues and with the upcoming younger generation of oboists.
On another subject, I was most interested to have the opportunity to play one of the new plastic Loree oboes in Bill Brannen's shop recently. The instrument seemed first class in every way and I only wonder about its projection characteristics. I am also impressed with the new oboes by Fox and would consider them without parallel for the younger student. Their evenness of pitch and response is a pleasure and the substantial workmanship appeals to me too; some of the rough edges in the key work of the earlier models has been nicely smoothed out. I haven't had any experience with the new Cabarts and Prestinis and would be eager to hear from those of you who have.
President Clemens has asked me to announce that Lowry Riggins will take over the post of treasurer of the society as of January 1, 1976. We all owe Noah Knepper a debt of gratitude for his dedicated work as he leaves this most demanding job. James L. Burton has been appointed second vice-president in charge of business liaison and advertising. His address is c/o the University of Georgia, Department of Music, Athens, Georgia 30601. Mr. Riggins' address appears in the Membership information box elsewhere in this issue.
Contributing members whose names were omitted from the 1975 Journal include Meason Products, the Selmer Corporation, and the Mirafone Corporation; we appreciate their valued support.
Chris Weait has things well under way for the convention in Toronto - August 16 through 18, 1976. Evelyn Barbirolli will participate in all three days of the convention, performing a recital and addressing the membership as well. It's not too early to begin making your plans to attend this meeting.
Until the next issue, I look forward to oboe news from your part of the world. You have my every good wish for 1976.
Daniel Stolper
Michigan State University
Department of Music
East Lansing, Michigan 48824 USA