24 Etudes for Oboe (or Saxophone)

Little is known about the life of Johann Heinrich Luft, who is known today primarily among oboists who study these 24 Etudes. Born in Germany, in the year 1813, he was educated in Magdeburg. After completing his education he went to Livonia, where he taught music. He moved to Saint Petersburg around 1830, when he was still in his late teens. From 1840-1860, he held the principal oboe position in the Imperial Theatre Orchestra. He became an important figure in Russia and was said to be the reputed founder of Russian oboe playing. When the Saint Petersburg Conservatory of Music was established in 1862, Luft became the first Professor of Oboe. He left his position at the conservatory in 1868 and returned to Germany, where he died a short time later.

He composed several oboe concerti, in addition to his 24 Etudes, which were written as teaching materials for his students. But it is the etudes for which he is most remembered.

These studies are still used all over the world today. They are an important tool for developing technical proficiency for either oboe or saxophone. 1-2 page exercises are included in each major and minor key to 5 flats and 6 sharps.