Hi,
So I picked up a 12-hole ceramic ocarina a few weeks ago, soprano in C this time (switched from the D one I mentioned before, felt more manageable for a starter). I used to play recorder as a kid for a few years, so reading sheet music isn't the problem... the breath control is something else entirely. The moment I try play the ocarina on anything with a fast melodic run, the pitch just collapses on me. I've been going through some Bach pieces on IMSLP, trying to find transcriptions light enough to work on without embarrassing myself, but most stuff I find is either too simple (nursery rhyme level) or way too demanding for where I'm at right now. Anyone here found repertoire that sits in between ? Or exercises specifically targeting breath steadiness ? I'm not in a rush, I just want to build decent foundations before I move on to anything more serious. Appreciate any pointer.
Tips for beginners who want to play the ocarina ?
Moderator: kcleung
Re: Tips for beginners who want to play the ocarina ?
Just to add a bit more context after spending a few more practice sessions with it: I think part of my issue is that I instinctively blow harder whenever I tense up during faster passages, which obviously makes things worse. Slowing everything down with a metronome has helped, but keeping the airflow consistent is still my biggest hurdle.
I also realized that spending some time just getting comfortable with the instrument itself before tackling more repertoire was probably the right call. Browsing different models and fingerings while learning to play the ocarina gave me a better idea of what people are using and what to expect from a 12-hole C instrument.
If anyone has a few intermediate pieces (Baroque or folk tunes are both fine) that helped bridge the gap between beginner exercises and the more demanding Bach arrangements, I'd love to hear your recommendations. Even a couple of breath-control drills that you found particularly effective would be greatly appreciated.
I also realized that spending some time just getting comfortable with the instrument itself before tackling more repertoire was probably the right call. Browsing different models and fingerings while learning to play the ocarina gave me a better idea of what people are using and what to expect from a 12-hole C instrument.
If anyone has a few intermediate pieces (Baroque or folk tunes are both fine) that helped bridge the gap between beginner exercises and the more demanding Bach arrangements, I'd love to hear your recommendations. Even a couple of breath-control drills that you found particularly effective would be greatly appreciated.