Small and often shaped like an egg, the ocarina is played by blowing into a mouthpiece. The musician covers or uncovers the holes to create different notes. Its simple shape conceals a wide variety of sounds, from gentle to bright.
Classified as a woodwind, this instrument belongs to the wind family even though it can be made from different materials. It may be crafted from terracotta, wood, metal, or plastic. Ancient objects capable of producing two to six notes have been found in Kosovo, Egypt, China, and South America.
To better understand its origins and how it produces sound, this guide also introduces the main models and the first steps in playing. You can start with these pointers for discovering the ocarina.
Its popularity grew among a new audience in 1998 with the release of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time for the Nintendo 64. In the game, Link plays it to trigger melodies. Since then, the instrument has intrigued music lovers and curious gamers alike.
Ocarina: Everything You Need to Know About This Wind Instrument
Its rounded outline sometimes resembles a small goose, but its history reaches much further back than its name. This vessel flute has a windway: the player’s breath strikes an edge and creates sound. It is classified as a woodwind even when made of ceramic, metal, or plastic.
A Vessel Flute in the Woodwind Family
The earliest models found could play two to six notes. Remains have been discovered in Kosovo, Egypt, China, and several parts of South America. In Kosovo, the Runik ocarina is among the country’s oldest recorded prehistoric musical instruments. Traces of vessel flutes date back about 12,000 years.
From Ancient Origins to Giuseppe Donati
In 1527, musicians and dancers performed before Charles V and later gave demonstrations across Europe. The name comes from the Bolognese ucaréṅna, meaning “little goose.” In 1853, Giuseppe Donati created a transverse model with ten holes near Bologna. Its shape helped establish a recognizable modern version.
| Milestone | Place or date | Notable fact |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient flutes | About 12,000 years ago | Traces of vessel-shaped models |
| Runik | Kosovo | Remarkable prehistoric object |
| Donati’s model | 1853, Budrio | Transverse version with ten holes |
How Does the Ocarina Produce Sounds and Notes?
Every melody arises from a balance between the air, the chamber, and its openings. The principle is related to the Helmholtz resonator, described around 1850 by physicist Hermann von Helmholtz.
The Role of the Resonator and Mouthpiece
The musician blows into the mouthpiece. Air travels through a windway and then strikes an edge. Changes in pressure create vibrations, as they do in a recorder. The resonating chamber amplifies the sound before it leaves through the sound outlet. The chamber’s volume and the strength of the breath also affect pitch.
The path of the air gives this musical instrument its voice. To explore the mechanism further, read this guide to how an ocarina works.
Finger Holes and Finger Placement
Covering the holes lowers the notes; uncovering more of them produces higher sounds. Their size must therefore be set precisely. Their position also helps the musician place their fingers comfortably. These choices shape the range and distinctive sounds of an ocarina.
“Opening more holes generally lets you play higher notes.”
| Part | Role | Effect on sound |
|---|---|---|
| Mouthpiece and edge | Direct the air and make it vibrate | Create sound |
| Chamber and outlet | Resonate and let air escape | Influence pitch |
| Holes and fingers | Open or close passages | Change the notes |
What Are the Main Ocarina Models and Ranges?
The number of holes changes the fingerings and the range of notes. Shape, chamber, and mouthpiece also affect playing comfort. Each model therefore serves different needs.
Six-, Ten-, and Twelve-Hole Ocarinas and Multi-Chamber Models
The English ocarina has six holes and can produce ten notes. The Peruvian model has eight holes and can play eleven. Created by Giuseppe Donati in the 19th century, the ten-hole ocarina offers eleven notes; the twelve-hole version can produce thirteen.
| Model | Chambers | Possible notes |
|---|---|---|
| Double ocarina | Two | 17 |
| Triple ocarina | Three | 21 |
| Quadruple ocarina | Four | 24 |
The Chinese quadruple model is thought to have appeared between 2007 and 2009. These ocarinas extend the range but require coordinated fingerings. Register also matters when choosing: soprano, alto, tenor, or bass. Common keys include C major, F major, and G major.
To choose this instrument for the way you play, consult our guide to choosing a first ocarina made of wood. Plastic is also a lightweight option for playing on the go.
Which Ocarina Should You Choose as a Beginner?
For your first purchase, consider comfort, budget, and the melodies you want to play. This musical instrument comes in several materials and sizes. A guide to the ocarina can also help you compare the options.
Compare Materials
Terracotta and ceramic offer warm tones but need a little care. Wood, porcelain, metal, stone, and bone are also used to make instruments. Lightweight and sturdy plastic is well suited to travel. Choose a material that feels comfortable in your hands and suits your budget.
Choose a Suitable Shape and Number of Holes
Some models measure close to fifteen centimeters, about the length of a hand. Smaller sizes often produce higher sounds, while larger ones favor lower notes. An alto is a common starting option. Compare models with 6, 8, 10, or 12 holes: fingerings and available notes vary by design. A simple model helps the musician position their fingers with ease.
| Option | Examples | What to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Plastic or ceramic | Weight, durability, and care |
| Register | Soprano, alto, tenor, or bass | High or low range |
| Number of holes | 6, 8, 10, or 12 | Fingerings and note range |
How Can You Learn to Play the Ocarina Step by Step?
Regular practice helps build confidence. Start with a twelve-hole model, often chosen for learning fingerings and playing simple melodies. This instrument may be made of terracotta or wood; choose one that is comfortable to hold.
Develop Good Posture and Control Your Breath
Hold the flute in both hands without gripping it tightly. Place your fingers over the holes, then check that they cover them completely. Blow gently and steadily: blowing too hard can sharpen the notes and affect your tuning.
“Calm, steady breathing helps keep notes in tune.”
Practice Fingerings, Tuning, and Your First Tunes
First, play a few individual notes. Then join them together in C major, F major, or G major, common keys for these models. Progress in small steps with short exercises, then try an easy tune. Ocarinas with several mouthpieces require a different movement: shift the body of the flute to move from one mouthpiece to another.
Listen to the sounds and repeat each passage slowly. With a little practice, playing becomes more fluid and the music begins to take shape.
Conclusion
From ancient vessel flutes to Giuseppe Donati’s model, created in 1853, the ocarina spans several eras. Its Bolognese name evokes a little goose. A resonating chamber, a mouthpiece, and finger holes give shape to its notes.
Six, eight, ten, or twelve openings, along with multiple chambers, offer varied ranges. For a first instrument, compare size, register, and material. Terracotta produces a warm sound, while plastic stands up better to knocks. Alto models often suit beginners.
Work on your breath, then your fingerings, and play your first melodies without rushing. Ocarinas have a place among the world’s instruments and can accompany your musical interests. Still curious about this instrument? Discover the differences between the flute and the ocarina to make an informed choice.