Which Ocarina Method Book Is Right for You? A Beginner’s Guide to Learning 12-Hole Ocarina

Learning the ocarina is an exciting journey—but if you’re just getting started, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is:

“Which method book should I start with?”

There isn’t one single “best” ocarina method book for everyone. Different players learn in different ways. Some people want a traditional step-by-step method. Some are motivated by playing beautiful classical melodies. Some are learning with children, or in a classroom setting. Others prefer a structured curriculum they can follow week by week.

To help you choose the right path, we’ve put together a clear guide to our four most popular 12-hole ocarina method books, explaining who each one is best for and how they differ. By the end of this article, you should have a much better idea of which book fits your learning style, goals, and experience level.

Best for: Adult beginners who want a solid foundation

This is a classic, well-rounded method book designed for players who want to build strong fundamentals on the 12-hole ocarina. The lessons progress step by step, covering tone production, fingering, breath control, and basic music reading, while also giving you plenty of actual songs to play along the way.

Why choose this book?

If you like a traditional learning approach and want to feel steady progress from your very first notes, this book gives you a clear roadmap. It’s especially popular with adult beginners who want structure but also enjoy learning real melodies instead of just technical exercises.

Best for: Players who love classical music and want to learn through real repertoire

This book teaches ocarina technique through the lens of classical music. Instead of only working through abstract exercises, you’ll learn by playing adapted melodies from composers like Bach, Mozart, Handel, and Telemann. It blends technical development with musical expression.

Why choose this book?

If you’re motivated by beautiful classical melodies and enjoy learning music in context, this is a very rewarding way to grow. It’s also a great choice for players who already have some musical background and want to connect ocarina practice with the broader classical tradition.

Best for: Homeschool students, teachers, and learners who want a structured curriculum

This book is organized like a complete beginner course. Lessons are laid out in a clear sequence, combining playing technique with basic music theory and practice guidance. It’s designed to be easy to follow over time, making it especially useful in teaching environments or for self-learners who want a “lesson plan” to follow.

Why choose this book?

If you prefer a guided, classroom-style approach with defined lessons and steady pacing, this book offers a very reassuring structure. It’s a popular choice for homeschool families and anyone who enjoys learning with a sense of progression and curriculum.

Best for: Children and young beginners

Ocarina Explorer is designed to make learning fun and engaging for younger players. It uses playful visuals, themed content, and a sense of “exploration” to keep kids interested while they build basic musical skills. The book introduces fundamentals in a way that feels more like an adventure than a traditional lesson.

Why choose this book?

If you’re buying for a child, teaching in a group setting, or want learning to feel lighthearted and creative, this book is a wonderful starting point. It helps young musicians build confidence and curiosity at the same time.

Still not sure? Here’s a simple way to decide:

• Choose The Art of Ocarina if you’re an adult beginner who wants a traditional, all-around method to build strong fundamentals.

• Choose Discovering the Ocarina Through Classical Music if you love classical melodies and want to learn technique through real musical pieces.

• Choose The Joy of Music if you want a clear, lesson-by-lesson learning path with structure and music theory included.

• Choose Ocarina Explorer if you’re learning with a child or want a fun, engaging approach for young beginners.

No matter which method book you choose, the most important part of learning the ocarina is simply starting and staying consistent. The right book is the one that fits your personality and keeps you motivated to pick up your ocarina again tomorrow.

If you’re still unsure, you can always reach out to us—we’re happy to help you find the learning path that best matches your goals.

Your ocarina journey starts with that first note.