Best Ocarinas

of Nov 2024

What are Ocarinas?

Ocarinas are ancient wind musical instruments that originated thousands of years ago. These instruments come in various shapes and sizes, and their sound is produced by blowing into an inlet or a hole.

Types of Ocarinas

Soprano Ocarinas

These are the smallest and most common type of ocarinas. They are generally made of pottery or ceramic and have six or eight finger holes. Soprano ocarinas come in a wide range of shapes, ranging from animal shapes to geometric shapes.

Alto Ocarinas

Alto ocarinas are the most versatile and widely used ocarinas. Unlike the soprano ocarinas, they have eight to ten finger holes and can play a wider range of notes. They also have a richer and deeper sound and are generally more expensive than the smaller soprano ocarinas.

Bass Ocarinas

These are the largest type of ocarinas and are rarely used in modern music. They have twelve holes and produce a deep, resonant sound. Due to their large size, they are generally difficult to play and are more expensive than the soprano and alto ocarinas.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Ocarina

Material

The material of the ocarina is an essential factor to consider when choosing an ocarina. Ocarinas can be made from various materials, including pottery, ceramic, plastic, and metal. Ceramic ocarinas are the most traditional and have a warm and natural sound. Plastic ocarinas are generally cheaper and can produce excellent sound quality. Metal ocarinas are the newest type of ocarinas and are made from materials such as titanium and aluminum. These ocarinas produce a bright and clear sound, making them perfect for recording and performing.

Tuning

The tuning of the ocarina is another critical factor to consider when deciding on an ocarina. Most ocarinas are tuned to a specific key, such as C or G. When choosing an ocarina, consider the music you plan to play, and select an ocarina that matches the pitch of your music. Some ocarinas come with adjustable tuning features that allow the player to adjust the pitch of each note by sanding down the holes.

Finger hole placement

The placement of finger holes on an ocarina is crucial for easy playability. Most ocarina makers use a system known as the 10-hole system, where there are eight finger holes on the front and two thumb holes on the back. The finger holes should be spaced evenly to ensure that the player can reach each hole comfortably.

Shape and Design

Ocarinas come in various shapes and designs, ranging from simple and classic designs to more unique and intricate designs. The design and shape of an ocarina contribute to its aesthetics and also affect its sound quality. A well-designed ocarina will generally produce a better sound and be easier to play.

Price

The price of an ocarina is an essential factor to consider when shopping for one. Ocarinas typically range in price from $20 to $150, with higher-end ocarinas being more expensive. Higher-priced ocarinas generally have superior sound quality and are better constructed than lower-priced ocarinas. However, it is important to note that not all expensive ocarinas are necessarily better than cheaper ones, and it is crucial to do research and read reviews before purchasing an ocarina.

Conclusion

Choosing the right ocarina can be a daunting process, but considering the factors mentioned above can help make the decision easier. Consider the material, tuning, finger hole placement, shape and design, and price when shopping for an ocarina. With the right ocarina, you can create beautiful music and enjoy the unique experience of playing this ancient wind instrument.