For Zelda Fans! Listen To 3 Different Zelda Ocarinas
A lot of players discover the ocarina through The Legend of Zelda series—and honestly, that’s one of the most magical ways to fall in love with this instrument. If Zelda was your gateway into the ocarina world, you’re definitely not alone.
In this post, I’m sharing some of my favorite Zelda-themed ocarinas, what makes each one special, and who they’re best for—especially if you’re just getting started.
All of the ocarinas featured here are official Zelda-style designs and are available from reputable makers. I’ll also share a few tips on choosing a quality ocarina and avoiding some common beginner pitfalls.
Be Careful Where You Buy Your Ocarina
Before jumping into the ocarinas themselves, a quick word of caution: not all ocarinas sold online are designed to be playable musical instruments. Some are made mainly as decorations or toys, and their tuning and tone can be unreliable.
If you’re new to the ocarina, choosing a trusted maker makes a huge difference in how enjoyable your learning experience will be. A well-made ocarina:
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Plays in tune
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Produces a clear tone
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Responds consistently across the range
This is especially important if you plan to follow tutorials or play along with other musicians.
Zelda 12-Hole Tenor Ocarina (Plastic)
This classic Zelda 12-hole tenor ocarina in C is a fantastic entry point for beginners.
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
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Durable: Plastic construction makes it tough and travel-friendly
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Affordable: Lower cost compared to ceramic options
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Lightweight: Easy to hold for long practice sessions
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Great tone: Clear and reliable sound across the range
If you’ve never played an ocarina before, this is one of the easiest ways to get started without worrying about breaking your instrument.
Zelda 12-Hole Tenor Ocarinas (Ceramic)
There are also ceramic Zelda-style tenor ocarinas available in different visual designs. While the shapes and colors may vary slightly, their sound and playability are very similar.
What Makes Ceramic Ocarinas Special:
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Richer tone: More resonance and warmth than plastic
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Beautiful designs: Great for collectors and display
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Professional feel: Heavier and more substantial in the hands
Choosing between different ceramic designs often comes down to personal preference—which look you enjoy most and how the instrument feels in your hands.
Which Zelda Ocarina Should You Choose?
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide:
Choose Plastic If You:
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Are a complete beginner
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Want something durable for travel or outdoor playing
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Are buying for a child
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Prefer a lightweight instrument
Choose Ceramic If You:
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Want a richer, more resonant tone
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Enjoy collecting themed instruments
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Prefer the feel of a heavier, more substantial ocarina
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Are ready for a more “traditional” playing experience
Both options are fully capable of playing Zelda music and standard ocarina repertoire—it’s more about your comfort level and goals.
Learn to Play Your Zelda Ocarina
If you’re just starting out, there are great beginner resources available to help you:
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Learn how to hold the ocarina
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Develop proper breathing and tone
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Read tabs and sheet music
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Play your favorite Zelda songs
Many beginner tutorials walk you step by step through the basics and include ocarina tabs for popular video game themes, making it easy to jump into music you already love.
Final Thoughts
Zelda-themed ocarinas are a fun and inspiring way to begin your ocarina journey. Whether you choose a plastic model for durability or a ceramic one for tone and aesthetics, the most important thing is picking an instrument that makes you excited to practice.
If Zelda music sparked your interest in the ocarina, lean into that excitement—learning is always easier when you’re playing songs you love.