Beginner's Lesson 1 for 12 Hole Ocarina

by STL Ocarina

If you’re new to the ocarina—or just getting started on your musical journey—you’re in the right place. The ocarina is one of the most accessible and enjoyable wind instruments to learn, but like any instrument, it takes a little patience and proper technique to sound your best.

This beginner-friendly guide focuses specifically on the 12-hole ocarina and will walk you through:

  • How to properly hold the ocarina

  • Correct finger placement

  • Your first notes (C through G)

  • Basic articulation and tone production

  • A simple daily practice exercise

With just a few minutes of focused practice each day, you’ll be well on your way to making beautiful music on the ocarina.

How to Hold the Ocarina Properly

Before playing your first note, it’s important to learn how to hold the ocarina correctly.

Use the Neck Strap

Always start by placing the neck strap around your neck. The strap helps support the ocarina and protects it from accidental drops—especially important when you’re still getting used to its shape and balance.

Thumb Placement

Turn the ocarina so the side with the most holes faces outward. Slide both thumbs toward each other behind the instrument until they cover the two large round thumb holes.

⚠️ Never cover the small triangular hole—this is the sound hole. Covering it will prevent the ocarina from making any sound.

Finger Placement

  • Curl your fingers naturally over the front tone holes.

  • Your left hand covers the upper holes.

  • Your right hand covers the lower holes.

  • Two small holes (called subholes) are used for advanced low notes. Don’t worry about those yet.

Make sure each finger fully seals its hole. You don’t need to squeeze tightly—just keep your fingers relaxed but firm enough to prevent air leaks.

Tip: Turn the ocarina around and visually check that all holes are completely covered.

Proper Playing Position

Bring the ocarina to your mouth so the airway points straight forward. Avoid tilting the instrument at awkward angles—this can affect both comfort and pitch. A straight airflow leads to better tone and intonation.

Your First Notes on the Ocarina (C to G)

With all holes covered, you’ll produce your first note:
C

From there, lift one finger at a time on your right hand:

  • All fingers down → C

  • Lift right pinky → D

  • Lift another finger → E

  • Lift another finger → F

  • All right-hand fingers lifted → G

These five notes alone allow you to play many simple melodies, including:

  • Mary Had a Little Lamb

  • Ode to Joy

  • Other beginner-friendly tunes

Articulation: How to Make Each Note Clear

Simply blowing into the ocarina isn’t enough for clean, musical tone. Use tongue articulation by thinking the syllable “tu” at the start of each note.

Try this:

  1. Say “tu” out loud.

  2. Now whisper “tu.”

  3. Finally, say “tu” with your ocarina at your mouth.

This creates a cleaner, more defined start to each note and makes your playing sound much more musical.

How Much Air Should You Use?

Ocarinas don’t require a lot of air. Think of blowing gently on a spoonful of hot soup to cool it down—too much air and the sound becomes harsh; too little and it becomes weak and airy.

Another helpful image: blowing bubbles. Gentle, steady air makes better bubbles—and better ocarina tone.

Listen carefully to your sound. If it’s airy or unstable, adjust your airflow and tongue placement slightly until it becomes clearer and more focused.

Daily Warm-Up Exercise for Beginners

This short exercise helps you:

  • Build finger muscle memory

  • Improve tone and articulation

  • Memorize basic note names

Exercise 1:

Play C → D → E → F → G, then back down G → F → E → D → C
Repeat this three times, holding the final note and focusing on beautiful tone.

Exercise 2:

Start on D and play:
D → E → F → G → F → E → D → C
Repeat three times, holding the final note.

Repeat this pattern starting on E, then F, then G.

This warm-up takes just a few minutes but builds a strong technical foundation.

Final Thoughts for New Ocarina Players

The ocarina is one of the easiest wind instruments to get a good tone on quickly—but developing consistency and control takes mindful practice. Be patient with yourself, listen carefully to your sound, and make small adjustments as you go.

With just a few minutes of focused practice each day, you’ll build confidence, control, and musicality faster than you might expect.

 

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