Article: The bell of your oboe has a hole that is the exact same size as the bottom joint cork, with a bridge that connects them. Place the bottom joint inside the bell, slowly twisting and pushing until they are properly attached. If there's a Bb key on your bell, hold it down while you twist so that the bridge can properly line up. The Bb key is a large circular key and will be the only key on the bell if you have one. Holding down the Bb key lowers the bridge on the bell so it can slide into the bridge on the bottom joint without scraping it. Do not squeeze either part of the instrument too tightly when attaching them, as this may bend the keys. There are two bridges that connect these joints, and both of them must be aligned for the instrument to be played properly. Arrange the 2 joints so that the bridges form a continuous, straight line down the body of the instrument. If you can't get both bridges perfectly lined up, focus on lining up the bridge with the upper keys attached to it. This is the most important one as it has the most keys. Use gentle but firm pressure to push the pieces into each other. Twist the pieces back and forth slowly to help position them correctly but never twist them a full 360 degrees. This can damage the instrument. For tight joints, rub cork grease on the joint corks. Use a piece of plastic wrap to apply the grease so you don't get your fingers oily. Newer instruments tend to need more cork grease. If cork grease doesn't help, take your oboe to a repairer or music shop and ask them to shave off some of the excess cork. This prepares the reed for playing. Place the cane side of the reed in a small cup of water to ensure that the inside is getting moist as well. You don't need to place the cork or the thread in the water. New reeds may require more soaking time, as they will take longer to open up and become moist. You can buy a special soaking cup for your reed. Film containers or small glasses also work well. Some musicians use saliva to soak their reed by placing it in their mouth. However, this can cause the reed to wear out faster. The reed goes into what's called the bore, which is a very small hole at the tip of the oboe. Push the reed all the way into the oboe, until the reed will not go any farther. Hold the top joint securely while you insert the reed, being careful not to grip the keys. Your reed must be pushed all the way into the bore or the oboe will not be able to produce any sound. The flat sides of the reed should be positioned to lay between your lips when holding the oboe properly.
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Attach the bell to the bottom joint, holding down the Bb key if there's one. Line up the upper joint and bottom joint so that the bridges are aligned. Press the upper joint and bottom joint together carefully. Soak your reed in warm water for 3 to 4 minutes. Place your reed into the top of the oboe, holding the base of the top joint.