So I recently started playing the oboe, and amazingly, it`s actually making sounds for me (even the right ones most times). My problem is that living in an apartment with thin walls isn`t real conducive to practicing without my neighbors burning me in effigy.

Does anyone have any ideas of publicly accessible locations where I could practice until people actually want to hear what I sound like?

Wow! it lookslike you you might be in a tough one. Hve you tried in the parking lot of you apartments. A Park, or try your school. they have different Clubs kids can start and they will allow you to have a room. Make up a club and practice in your own room

If your library has sound proof study rooms, practice there. You could try a music store - get to know the owner - they let you practice there.

Don`t practice outside with an oboe - they are very sensitive.

Alex