Best Ocarinas

Choosing the right ocarina can be a rewarding experience, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician. This guide will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision, exploring various types, materials, and considerations to help you find the perfect instrument.

Types of Ocarinas

Ocarinas come in several different shapes and sizes, each offering unique playing characteristics. The most common types are the transverse and pendant ocarinas.

Transverse Ocarinas

Transverse ocarinas are held horizontally and are often the preferred type for those with some musical experience. They feature a mouthpiece that is perpendicular to the instrument’s body. This design allows for more complex fingerings and greater tonal range. They are generally larger than pendant ocarinas and have a more complex fingering system. This can lead to more accurate and expressive playing.

Pendant Ocarinas

Pendant ocarinas are smaller and designed to be worn around the neck. This makes them a popular option for beginners and children. These ocarinas are typically simpler in design with fewer finger holes. They are often easier to learn on and are quite portable. However, they may have a more limited range of notes and less intricate fingering patterns compared to the transverse variety.

Key Takeaway: Ocarinas come in two main types: transverse and pendant. The transverse ocarina is generally used by experienced players, while the pendant ocarina is popular with beginners and children.

Material Choices

The material an ocarina is made from significantly affects its sound, durability, and cost. The most common materials are ceramic, plastic, and wood.

Ceramic Ocarinas

Ceramic ocarinas are renowned for their superior tonal quality. The material allows for a clear, resonant sound and offers a traditional aesthetic. This material can be more fragile than plastic or wood, so it is recommended that you handle them with extra care to avoid chips or breaks.

Plastic Ocarinas

Plastic ocarinas are a durable, cost-effective option that is good for those just starting out. They are more robust than their ceramic counterparts and less likely to break. The plastic material is very easy to clean and generally more affordable, making it a good choice for beginner musicians or young children.

Wooden Ocarinas

Wooden ocarinas provide a warmer tone and are valued for their unique aesthetic. The wood makes each instrument unique due to variations in the grain. Wood ocarinas are known for being gentle on the environment since they are made of natural materials. They will require some maintenance to prevent the wood from drying out.

Range and Tuning

When purchasing an ocarina it’s important to consider its range and tuning to make sure it suits your musical requirements.

Range

The range of an ocarina refers to the number of notes it can play, usually measured in octaves. A wider range allows you to play a more diverse variety of music. Some ocarinas may have a range of one octave, while more sophisticated models can span two or more. It is important to check the range of the instrument you are interested in and see if it aligns with your playing goals.

Tuning

The most common tuning for ocarinas is C major, but other tunings, like G and F major, also exist. The tuning of an ocarina determines the base pitch of the instrument. Most ocarinas are designed to be diatonic, which means they play in a specific scale. If you intend to play with other instruments or ensembles, confirm the tuning of your chosen ocarina.

Key Considerations When Buying

Before purchasing an ocarina, it is important to consider a variety of factors to make sure it’s the right instrument for you. The material, type, cost, tuning, and range can all impact your enjoyment and how well the instrument suits your needs.

Skill Level

If you are a beginner it is often best to start with a simple pendant ocarina made from plastic to develop basic techniques. The simplicity and cost-effectiveness make them less daunting for new players. Once you get more experience you can switch to a more complex instrument with more features.

Budget

Ocarinas vary in price, depending on materials, construction, and brand. Ceramic ocarinas are usually more expensive than plastic ones due to the complexity of their manufacturing and superior sound quality. Consider your budget when shopping for an ocarina and aim for an instrument that offers good quality for the price.

Intended Use

Think about how you plan to use your ocarina. If you want to play solo in private, a simpler model might suit you fine. If you intend to perform with others you might consider getting a more sophisticated instrument with a larger range of notes, better tonal quality and a specific tuning.

Key Takeaway: Several key factors such as the ocarina’s material, type, tuning, range, price and skill level must be considered when purchasing an ocarina.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance is essential for prolonging the life of your ocarina. Here’s some tips to ensure your instrument remains in good condition:

• For ceramic ocarinas, handle them with care to avoid chips or breaks. It’s important to store them in a protective case when not in use.
• Plastic ocarinas are relatively low-maintenance and can be cleaned with soapy water and a soft cloth. Be careful not to let water enter the windway.
• Wooden ocarinas may require occasional oiling to prevent them from drying and cracking. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the best way to care for them.

Type	Material	Cost	Durability	Sound Quality	Maintenance	Skill Level
Transverse	Ceramic	Higher	Fragile	Superior	High	Experienced
Transverse	Wood	Moderate	Moderate	Warm	Moderate	Moderate
Pendant	Plastic	Low	High	Moderate	Low	Beginner
Pendant	Ceramic	Moderate	Fragile	Good	High	All Levels

FAQ

What is the best type of ocarina for a beginner?

Pendant ocarinas made of plastic are generally the most suitable for beginners because they are easy to learn on, affordable and durable.

How do I clean my ceramic ocarina?

Ceramic ocarinas should be handled with care to prevent chipping or breaking. They should be stored in a protective case when not in use. Avoid using water to clean the windway.

How do I clean my plastic ocarina?

Plastic ocarinas can be cleaned with soapy water and a soft cloth. Be careful not to get water into the windway.

What tuning is best for an ocarina?

The most common tuning for ocarinas is C major, but it is important to make sure it fits your needs.

Conclusion

Selecting the right ocarina is a personal decision that depends on your budget, skill level, and musical preferences. By considering factors such as ocarina type, material, range, and tuning, you’ll be well-equipped to make a choice that will provide you with years of musical enjoyment. Remember to take care of your instrument and explore its unique sonic capabilities, letting your musical journey with the ocarina be as enjoyable and rewarding as possible.