What Is an Ocarina? Learn About This Ancient Musical Instrument
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Have you ever heard of an ocarina? This small wind instrument has a fascinating history that stretches back thousands of years. Learning to play an ocarina is not only a fun introduction to music, but it’s also a wonderful way to explore world history, geography, and ancient cultures.
Whether you’re studying ancient civilizations, world music, or simply looking for an easy beginner instrument, it could make a unique addition to your homeschool or classroom.
What Is an Ocarina?
An ocarina is a small wind instrument that belongs to the vessel flute family. It is played by blowing into a mouthpiece while covering different finger holes to create musical notes.
Although it works similarly to a recorder, it has a rounded body that gives it its distinctive sound and appearance.
Many traditional ocarinas were made from clay or ceramic and were often shaped like birds or other animals.
The History of the Ocarina
One of my favorite things about this instrument is its incredible history.
Ancient forms of ocarinas have been discovered in many parts of the world, including:
- China
- Mesoamerica (Mayan and Aztec civilizations)
- Parts of Central and South America
- India
These early instruments were used for music, ceremonies, and cultural traditions. Archaeologists have uncovered beautifully decorated clay ocarinas that are hundreds—and in some cases thousands—of years old.
The modern ocarina was later developed in Italy during the 1800s, where it became a popular folk instrument and eventually spread around the world.
Studying the ocarina is a wonderful way to connect music with world history and geography.
Why Learn to Play this Ancient Instrument?
This is an excellent first instrument for children because it is:
- Small and lightweight
- Easy to learn
- Affordable
- Portable
- Great for building confidence in beginning musicians
Simple finger patterns allow children to start playing melodies fairly quickly, making it an encouraging instrument for young learners.
Our Experience Learning the Ocarina
We had the opportunity to try a beginner ocarina curriculum designed specifically for homeschool families, and my kids really enjoyed learning the basics together.
Our beginner ocarina had six finger holes, and we started by learning simple notes before moving on to easy songs. My kids especially enjoyed taking turns practicing different melodies and discovering how changing which holes were covered produced different notes.
One of the things I appreciated most was how naturally the lessons connected music with history and culture.
Ocarina Activities for Kids
If you’re studying the ocarina, try extending the lesson with a few hands-on activities:
- Compare it to a recorder or flute.
- Look at photographs of ancient clay ocarinas discovered by archaeologists.
- Listen to traditional ocarina music from different cultures.
- Draw or sculpt your own design using clay.
These activities help children connect music with geography, history, and art.
Learn More About the Ocarina
There are many excellent videos online demonstrating how to play the ocarina, along with performances of folk songs, classical music, and movie themes. Listening to different styles of music can help children appreciate the unique sound of this remarkable instrument.
Also here is a video of Let it Go being played.
Another neat video of The Hobbit on the Ocarina:
More Music Activities for Kids
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