Introducing children to different things while they are young goes a long way in developing their interests. The love of music is one of those things that should be introduced early in life. I have always favored the wind musical instruments since learning to play the clarinet as a young child. Recently I picked up the ocarina and have been enjoying learning how to play it.
What is the Ocarina?
The Ocarina is an ancient wind musical instrument sort of like a type of vessel flute. It is traditionally made from clay or ceramic, but other materials are also used—such as plastic, wood, glass, metal, or bone.
It is believed that the ocarina dates back to early history. According to the history on the instrument, both the Mayans and Aztecs cultures had similar versions of the Ocarina, but the Aztecs were the ones credited with bringing Europe the song and dance that became traditional on the Ocarina.
STL Ocarina
After two years of research and development, we are proud to present our newest plastic 12-hole tenor Ocarina! The 12 Hole Plastic Tenor Ocarina is a beginners dream. Easy to play and tuned in the key of C Major which allows you to hit even the highest notes with ease.
This tenor Ocarina is made from durable plastic in a vibrant blue and measures 6.5 inches long. It has a pitch range from A4 to F6 including sharps and flats and is ideal for beginners, students, and young musicians, even those just young at heart. It comes with a free online instructional booklet and handy neck strap.
Instructional Method Book – The Art of Ocarina
This step-by-step guide teaches the basics of ocarina technique even to those with no prior musical knowledge.
The Art of Ocarina Volume One includes:
— 12 Step-by-Step lessons
— Instructions on how to play each note
— Tips on how to practice
— Breathing techniques
— How to play various rhythms
— How to play in different keys
— Scales and exercises for daily practice
Teacarina
The ultimate gift for the musically-inclined multitasker!
The Teacarina, is a proper teacup that also doubles as an ocarina. We are giving you permission to be a big kid and play with your food – drink, really – with this unique instrument. It is made from high-grade ceramic and microwave safe.
The Teacarina teacup 4-hole ocarina measures approximately 3.5 inches in diameter and can play 8 diatonic notes to help you get your drink and music on. And to make it even easier, we have included a free fingering chart for the Teacarina so you can enjoy the sweet, soothing sound of the ocarina as soon as you finish that first cup of sweet, soothing tea.
My Thoughts:
Music has always played a huge role in our family. We have introduced instruments pretty early and have been amazed at how quickly little ones can pick them up.
These two instruments are ones that I had heard about but never seen or played. Wow – they are so much fun! The Ocarina does require a little finesse with the finger placement that can be challenging, especially for those with little hands but once the placement is figured out..no stopping the hours of fun and crazy musical creations.
I have enjoyed the Teacarina. I mean, who wouldn’t enjoy making music while drinking a bowl of tea? LOL.. just be careful and not tip it too much like I have done on more than one occasion.
Both of these musical instruments have a deep story in history. We have been learning about them in our daily lessons and am really surprised they are not more popular. Smaller, wind instruments are nice because you can take them with you anywhere. They do not require power like some instruments and they aren’t huge or heavy to pack around. When the mood strikes, whip out your little ocarina and play a tune for yourself or for those around you. We visited a senior center last week and brought both of these instruments along. Even with the basic songs we have learned, it was sweet to bring a smile to the residents.
If you have been looking for a way to introduce the love of music to your little ones or family, I recommend both of these instruments. They are easy to learn to play and are a great way to build confidence and skills while developing a love of music.
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We’ve added STL Ocarina to our 2018 Easter Gift Guide! Check it out here!
