Oh wow, I remember watching this video about 12 years ago. I was around 13 years back then (this video was about 2 years old then). I remember how I really wanted an ocarina when I discovered they existed IRL (a ceramic blue like the on in OoT) but shopping online from Sweden wasn't a thing back then if you bought stuff overseas (I found out about Ebay). I was fortunate enough to get hold of one since a relative was visiting the US and I asked him to order one of eBay then bring it back, which he did. I showed the ocarina for my friends in Sweden (all of which loved the Zelda series) after learned some easy zelda songs and they were all so jealous of me having an ocarina. So I lent out the ocarina for them to practice and told them to watch your videos to learn how to play. Then, we all gathered to do a OoT game run together on my N64 I had back then in our cellar and we played along on my ocarina when Link played ocarina in the game. That summer break was so awesome. I'm turning 26 this year, doing the usual stuff someone would do at 26. But watching this and your older videos brings out that inner nerd child of mine! :D I still have the ocarina at home! This brings back so much nostalgia. Thank you for the memories David!
Omg, this was so long ago! The Nostalgia is real here. I watched this video when I was 8 years old and I bought my first ocarina because of this video! Rewatching with a tear in my eye. Thank you David!
I just wanted to leave a comment saying that your videos have inspired me to finally pick up an instrument. I picked a six hole pendant ocarina to try to ease myself into it. While I was a little disappointed to see how limited I was in the number of full songs I could play, it was definitely an issue I expected while purchasing it. Thanks again for the motivation.
David Erick Ramos - Ocarina One question. I ordered a few song books from songbird ocarina, but they seem to only have tabs. Where would you recommend going to find sheet music?
+Richard Bean I also bought a 6 hole . Wanting to try the easy route first as I cant even read music. It is an oval shape and altough looks wooden, is clay. Interested in how your progression is and how things are working for you. any help and suggestions are appreciated. thank you.
Daniella Hayes I've still been using the tab songbooks that I originally bought with the ocarina. Honestly, it's been surprisingly easy to pick up and learn. The biggest issue I'm dealing with currently is the fact that I have slight natural tremors in my hands. It makes it a little more difficult to make some of the quicker transitions from note to note. Other than that though, I'm really enjoying it and will probably be moving on to some more complex songs here soon. One thing that I've noticed is that, at least in my case, the clay pendant ocarinas are not very durable. My daughter happened to drop mine once and, while it showed no outward signs of damage, it tended to have a hard time making the right sound on the highest notes afterward. The only thing I can think is that there may have been some internal cracking that occured. So I ordered a new one and haven't run into any problems since.
thank you so very much for the information . I intend to practice more once the weather subsides. I live with others in a farm house...and wouldnt want to offend. I plan on taking it hiking and kayaking come spring. i appreciate the help. Good luck with the playing. Keep in touch. Daniella
@ZERO Dude. Even David started with Zelda. And do you have to be so hypocritical over a comment? Your like a more hypocritical version of me. And a 20 year old game be trendy in 2018? How many of these 9/10 people do you think are children? And if you were so keen on modern Entertainment being a spawn of satan then look at you. Your watching youtube, is that how you plan *on gettong laid afterwards"?
I ordered my Ocarina 1 week ago (gemtune sweet potato AC) and it arrived yesterday. I started playing today and it so easy! It took me 5 minutes to learn "the lion sleeps tonight" (well thats pretty easy) and half an our for "the phantom of the opera" I nearly watched every single tutorial of you X'D thanks for that
Hi there! Ahh, I have a question, if you don't mind(: Is it your first instrument? I've never played anything before, but I'm so passionate about wanting to learn how to play the Ocarina! Anyways, if it was really that easy to learn for a beginner, I have no worries about ordering one for myself!^__^
Ookami x Kitsune Nope it's my second one. I' ve played the piano before. But they are tooooo different. It's so much fun to play the ocarina, you won't believe it :) GET ONE
You know, when I first heard of the Legend of Zelda and the Ocarina of Time, I was like "What the f**k is an ocarina?". I just thought it was some sort of magical item made up from the fictional world that is the Legend of Zelda. Then I watched an episode of Adventure Time called "Ocarina" and I asked my brother "Is thing for real?" I probably was not paying much attention to the episode as some AT episodes do that to me, but my brother informed me that it was an instrument. And here I was thinking that it was some sort of talisman thingy. LOLXD the sound are much soothing and welcoming compared to those annoying plastic recorder kids get in middle school. I recently dig up the old sticker clad thing and played a tune and got sick of the weird sound. I should try to find a good one and learn to play. Your vid was great. Thumbs up =)
I just got a 12 hole tenor (Zelda version). I already play clarinet but it's weird not being able to just play right from the start. Apparently I'll have to go through some of the basics to get used to it.
David Erick Ramos It's STL Ocarina. It came with a rupee 6-hole soprano. www.stlocarina.com/ztenor3s.html It sounds fine from what I can tell, I just didn't think about needing some time for things like ensuring the holes get covered properly with each new note or that my fingers cover the main hole, completely, when using the sub-holes. (basic beginners things that come with a new instrument). After learning one instrument, It feels like I should automatically be able to play all others. Though it's really just because I don't feel like "learning" again. I can already play a few zelda songs, albeit a bit slower. The booklets I got use numbers instead of notes, so I'll probably look up the standard sheet music soon so I can tie my fingers to actual notes.
UltimateMustacheX Where do you get one that would cost less? Like one without the little rupee would make it cost less? Just one nearly the same just less expensive and without the rupee ocarina
UltimateMustacheX Nvm. I found one that has exactly the same title after searching in your title and it is exactly the same without rupee and only cost $50 dollars and made by the same people with same samples and everything. The only thing is that it doesn't have the song book... I might just buy the one you got.
This might sound like marketing for David, but I would say his Guide to ocarinas is the best way to tell what you want. I sure as heck know it would have helped me pick a better ocarina than the one I got first...
I subscribed just listen to his playing! Didn't realize he also made videos of lessons and gave advice about all the different Ocarinas. (My sister, Who has never had a desire to play any type of wind instrument, now owns 2, and I now have 3.) Both of us are learning to play, with David Erick Ramos' help, through the videos he makes!
While not speaking to the "subject matter", I happen to think that this is one of the very best instructional videos I have ever seen on UA-cam. Whoever you are young man, you are very professional in your presentation. None of the "aaaahhhs or aaaaaaaahmmmms" between sentences, but a very fluid presentation. Thanks for a nice lessonon Ocarinas, well done, and good luck. Bill Tyler
Hello, thank you for this video! I have dreamed of playing an ocarina since childhood, and I decided to finally do it this week and luckily saw your video! Can you PLEASE help me with a few questions, though? 1. My inspiration was definitely the Zelda games, but I want one that sounds and plays well. Can you please suggest a brand/maker with a similar style one or maybe even a replica or 3 (for options) which are actually good/well made? 2. Which of the tones/pitches are the one used in the Zelda franchis? Particularly in the original NES and SNES games? While I desire to play MUCH more than game themes/intros, I still have that childhood dream of being able to play the NES Zelda and SNES Zelda intros at a whim. :) 3. Were the ones for the above mentioned games 8 or 10 holes? Thank you!!!!
Mylena Corazza Well, thank you for answer 1 at least. :) Would you say Songbird's replica is of decent quality? Is it playable? Or is it just something to put on a table or hang on a wall to look pretty/geeky? Thank you again!
Matthias Drake I don't own one myself, but every Ocarina player says Songbird is amazing! With the replica, I'm sure they're great, they cost 108 dollars tho. Stl Ocarina has some too! Btw, I think the original game one has 7 holes, but I'm not sure.
Mylena Corazza You have been an amazing help! Thank you! Now to fail for a good while with a wind instrument as I learn. I expect many annoyed neighbors. >_
i am only ten looking for a ocarina.i dont care if its hard to start but i want one easy to carry and has a really nice tune and it also has to look cool to impress my friends. i will be checking back on this comment in a couple days to see if you respond.thank you very much
I know you probably won't see this; but this was the video that inspired me to get my own ocarina... you will forever hold a place in my heart. Bless you.
It's a jig I wrote called "The Traveller" and it's available on my debut album, "Leave Luck to Heaven". You can download the song on iTunes and Loudr.fm :D
1) How easy they are to play/master depends on yourself and how much time you want to put into it. Usually it doesn't take too long to get a feel for it, but of course it'll take time to master it much like anything else. 2) Most I've seen are tuned to the key of C, some may vary. 3) I'd definitely recommend songbird ocarinas. I've always heard good feedback about them. They have two different Zelda replicas right now I believe.
Wow! David, thank you for making a concise, organized and well considered video. The humor is invaluable.....love the way you started this film :) Best of luck to you and again, thank you for giving me the most information for a rank beginner. God bless!
And now I have played a lot on my old recorder, that I had forgotten I had, I understand notes and holes and that stuff much better :D Not entirely the same, but still. I can't wait to buy it now that I got money xD
If you're a loz fan and you just st want an ocarina get the ocarina of time kokiri edition from songbird ocarina. If you again want an instrument to start with check out STL ocarina
Hello David. How durable is an Ocarina ? Will it break if it's dropped ? They look shinny and a bit slippery. I would hate to pay $100 bucks or so and then drop it.
I just have to say, your videos helped me a big bunch when choosing my first ocarina (I went to Songbird Ocarinas) and are now helping me learn to master the art of playing it that much faster. Keep up the good work, and I look forward to more videos!
I ordered my dragon tooth ocarina last night. It's the strawfired extra quiet from Songbird. I chose songbird because I have an elbow deformation that doesn't allow my ulna and radius to properly rotate giving me very little range of motion to turn my wrist. The dragon tooth seems to require the last range of motion and still sounds lovely. I liked the idea of the EQ because I like the fact that it's fairly even blow for all the holes (except the lowest notes). I'm excited!
You know what i wanna do? Dress up as Link,buy a replica of Link's ocarina that you have,and learn how to play some of the song and then imma just go though the streets of Prague and see how many people recognise me
I FINALY got around to doing this... Thank you so much for this video! This message probably sounds all to familiar, but I must admit, you are the one person that actually persuaded my mum to let me play the most beautiful instrument ever crafted!
Recieved my Focalink AC double Ocarina today, and it plays beautifuly! Debated the standard 12 hole or the Double for a good few weeks, and Im more thann satisfied! May be an old video, but you still gave me a hugely informative description on the ocarinas that i needed to make a solid choice. Thank you so much, and keep up the crazy awesome performances!
Okay, this is all totally new to me! I had never HEARD of an ocarina before (aaaand...I've never seen "Zelda") I watched STL Ocarina's "Misty Mountain Cold" a moment ago. Now, I think I want one! The tenor (Zelda version) looks like the one to get. I THANK YOU, David, for this info and I will be checking out some of your other vids.
Started with a 12 hole Taiwanese style. Was not disappointed. Your videos on how to play helped me so much. One year later, I got a bass C four hole for Christmas and had to learn the whole thing all over again. XD Totally worth it, I have no regrets.
I am only 14 and am a newbie to Ocarinas and this has been incredibly helpful! I am thinking a Alto pendant for myself but am going to look into it first! Thanks so much for making this!
ive made my decision , thanks, songbird and hind ocarinas are now my primary ocarina shopping websites, and I know what im going to order so thank you very much, even though this isn't my first ocarina I still thought this video taught me a lot, the one I have a a plastic manufactured one, I didn't spend too much because I wasn't sure id like the ocarina or not, but now I know I do and am going to invest a lot more money into them, thanks for the advice again
Hi, David!! Love your videos. I've been thinking about ocarinas for a while and decided to go out and buy one today. I chose a Songbird teardrop pendant in soprano G. I love it already. It's a little small, but it doesn't shriek and it sounds really great. I wouldn't have had any idea which to start with without your videos. Thanks!!
Alright sensei, here we go. Got a 12-hole and can't wait to play some Zelda tunes properly. Who knows, I might even upload a video or two. You're a total inspiration!
Just bought the Zelda Ocarina because my fiancé is addicted to the games, I figured it'd be a cute idea to learn to play for him and surprise him on our 7 year anniversary! I also got the Nightingale ocarina for a more long term one to play. It being bigger will work for my larger hands, it's sounds beautiful, and I'm not worried about portability. -3 thanks for all your videos!
Hi David. I just got the star key ocarina. It's still in the package because I'm waiting for Christmas to open it. I know that it's generally not for beginners, however I've been a musician for 9 years playing guitar and piano by ear and I do have a knack at picking up other instruments and playing them as teachers, feeling into their sounds to make melodies with them. I was wondering if I could glimpse your perception on this Ocarina. I appreciate your response in simply reading this and I appreciate your awe inspiring work and dedication to your craft. Peace Love & Balance, Brandon.
I wish I found this video a week ago... I bought a huge gaudy English pendant style ocarina (thinking it would be no large than 2 inches). And I come to find out that I could get smaller ones for half what I paid for. Thanks for the reviews and posting favorite sellers, now I'm a bit more educated on my next buy.
Loved your Sorrow and Sadness video! Gave me the goosebumps haha. But, thank you for the tips. I already have two Ocarina's; 6 hole SongBird and a 12 hole(not sure the exact name for it, tis a Zelda replica). I'm looking forward to buying one; preferably the one you used in the Sorrow and Sadness video, in the near future. I shall use this video as a reference. Thanks!
That's a really tough question because there are many different ocarinas with many different characteristics, so it's more a question of what you're looking for. However, my favorite ocarina at the moment would have to be my Rotter C3 from Austria :D
such an old school youtube video, informative and short, clean and to the point! I like you! you have a nice looking channel , but you know im here for zelda!!! lmao
Just got my first real ocarina today by mail! a STL 12 hole Zelda Tenor in Black. I really love the sound of it but i have a lot of work learning the music basics (notes and stuff). I still really love to just play around and discover melodies !
Yea, I play flute and sax (amongst other things, bein a music major and all) and I had no trouble picking it up at all, just need lots of practice with playing speed on the high notes while still holding the silly thing. but it's super fun, well worth the effort I love mine!
Very informative, thanks! I just wanted to suggest another ocarina seller, STL Ocarina. that's where I got mine and I love it. The one I got was only $25 (at Comic con though, online is a tad higher). I got the beginner Zelda one and it's made of hard plastic, I play a few different woodwind instruments, so I was hesitant to get a plastic one knowing that you get what you pay for, but being a new you gotta buy the cheap one before you get the pro. I am very happy with it's sound and quality.
So I went to Otakon this year and purchased my first Ocarina on the last day of the con, mainly cause it was a Zelda-esque Ocarina. Its a 12-Hole Plastic C Major Ocarina I believe. Despite my reason for getting it, I actually am beginning to consider possibly purchasing other Ocarina's as well and learning how to play them (never really tried learning how to play an instrument until now but the Ocarina intrigues me). I haven't really gotten breath conrol down I don't think but hey practice :).
Also, I totally agree you HAVE to listen to the sound of each one if you can, an ocarina may look pretty but not be what you like to listen to. I drove the vendors crazy having them play each one (some twice for comparison) before I made my choice. It took like 30 mins, but was totally worth it.
That really shouldn't be a problem, I'll be able to adapt to that quite quickly. Thank's for letting me know though, I'm very curious about the specifics of the instrument at the moment.
I have three questions: 1) How easy are Zelda ocarinas to play/master? (Ocarina of Time replica) 2) What range is a Zelda ocarina? (I have a dog) 3) What website would you recommend to get a Zelda ocarina? (for both playing and collecting)
I can correct you. I just ordered a ceramic alto c (sweet potato) ocarina for 20 bucks. It plays really well. I got it on Amazon from a seller named Winterworm.
although, an ocarina is only as good as the tabs you can learn for it... or your ability to recreate those sounds... either way, pattern recognition really helped me leaning the ocarina... i started on lion sleeps tonight then jumped to hedwigs theme followed by hes a pirate... now I'm working on once upon a December...
I started with a Songbird Seedpod in soprano, the highest notes are crazy but I'm getting to know it pretty well. I want an alto seedpod and a twelve hole once I get a little better.
I woke up today, and i saw a Peruvian ocarina in my stocking. I was so excited, but i was a bit disappointed. I had seen this video before, but I am still excited about learning a bit! Hopefully I can get a better pendant or something soon!
As soon as I either have a lot of money to buy some stuff on my vacation AND get an ocarina, or after my vaca... Well, point is, I'm definitely trying to get one of these. This is a really cool instrument... And thanks 4 the vid! :)
My first ocarina was a gift years ago brought back with a relative from when they visited the grand cannon. It was a Peruvian ocarina. The one you didn't recommend XD however I loved it and learned a few easy songs on it. Sadly it got broken a few months later when I fell and it went flying out of my hands. Now years later I'm thinking of buying another ocarina but wasn't sure if I should get a different one or not and this video was very helpful so thanks.
I would assume any experience playing a woodwind instrument would help, considering the Ocarina is a woodwind. If you ignore that, I would still say yes, because you're not going to have issues reading your music, keeping good time, etc unlike people who are totally new.
What i would recommend to you guys is the soprano ceramic (12 holes) which won't be hard to play and won't make sound error (but which is louder too) and won't need breath training. Alto c 12 notes would need a certain breath training, at least with ther highter notes as the one i just bough in plastic 20$ don't do that). But still i haven't tried all them out. i just think ceramic is the best if you compare to plastic. It makes a more clear sound. I will have to try wood now.
@im4youdead example: Zelda's lullaby. I know it. I can play along fine, but mastering it means playing it perfectly. Mastering your breath, breath control etc, getting the pitchs perfect all that stuff :3
Great video. Helped me a lot. Can you make a video comparing the differences between wood, clay, and plastic ocarinas? That would be amazing, and very helpful! Please and thank you.
Yes it's okay. You can search ocarina and click the first one from STLocarina and click his name again to view all the ocarina's he has. some are expensive so be alert to the prices.
Sweet potato refers to the classic Italian shaped ocarina. ( Ocarina actually means "little goose" for the avian profile shape more commonly referred to as sweet potato nowadays.)
It's mostly just a preference. Of course, ocarinas of different materials will sound different, but it's not really a great annoyance. I suppose the biggest reason that wood is better than clay is that when it hits hard flooring, it doesn't shatter. Happened to me, really sucks losing an expensive ocarina.
You can learn the fingering for the notes easier than the pendant because of the linear style but the actual playing is more difficult because of the number of finger holes.
You know that there is something called a hand ocarina right? or bird call. you just cup your hands tightly and lightly blow above the hole between your thumb knuckles. you don't need to pay anything for it. and you can tune it by tightening your hands or making them a bit more loose. I can play all the Zelda songs on it and even envented some. :)
I haven't bought an ocarina yet, but I'm thinking about it. I have a friend who bought one because she loves Zelda, and it's her first instrument. Whereas, I already play the flute, recorder, clarinet, violin etc. I'm assuming someone like myself would be best to start with a non-plastic double ocarina. The Zelda ocarina has too small of a range for my tastes. I like 2 octaves, at least, covering low C to the C 2 lines above the staff.
I just received an Ocarina for a birthday gift and this video was very helpful!! Thanks now I'm SIKED about learning how to play it. (Mines is an alto 12holed)
Oh wow, I remember watching this video about 12 years ago. I was around 13 years back then (this video was about 2 years old then).
I remember how I really wanted an ocarina when I discovered they existed IRL (a ceramic blue like the on in OoT) but shopping online from Sweden wasn't a thing back then if you bought stuff overseas (I found out about Ebay). I was fortunate enough to get hold of one since a relative was visiting the US and I asked him to order one of eBay then bring it back, which he did.
I showed the ocarina for my friends in Sweden (all of which loved the Zelda series) after learned some easy zelda songs and they were all so jealous of me having an ocarina. So I lent out the ocarina for them to practice and told them to watch your videos to learn how to play. Then, we all gathered to do a OoT game run together on my N64 I had back then in our cellar and we played along on my ocarina when Link played ocarina in the game. That summer break was so awesome.
I'm turning 26 this year, doing the usual stuff someone would do at 26. But watching this and your older videos brings out that inner nerd child of mine! :D
I still have the ocarina at home!
This brings back so much nostalgia. Thank you for the memories David!
Omg, this was so long ago! The Nostalgia is real here. I watched this video when I was 8 years old and I bought my first ocarina because of this video! Rewatching with a tear in my eye. Thank you David!
aww
+Just DeMichael haha
Just Alyss aw
I bought my first ocarina in high school after seeing this video.
I now play ocarina in a college orchestra.
I was 2 when this video was released
I want to get a really small soprano pendant ocarina and play a sad song when someone in complaining
lol
Over Enthusiastic Trekkie Bam Bam Baaaaaaam
I fully support this decision
Over Enthusiastic Trekkie
Dude Dog
I just wanted to leave a comment saying that your videos have inspired me to finally pick up an instrument. I picked a six hole pendant ocarina to try to ease myself into it. While I was a little disappointed to see how limited I was in the number of full songs I could play, it was definitely an issue I expected while purchasing it. Thanks again for the motivation.
No problem man!
David Erick Ramos - Ocarina One question. I ordered a few song books from songbird ocarina, but they seem to only have tabs. Where would you recommend going to find sheet music?
+Richard Bean I also bought a 6 hole . Wanting to try the easy route first as I cant even read music. It is an oval shape and altough looks wooden, is clay. Interested in how your progression is and how things are working for you. any help and suggestions are appreciated. thank you.
Daniella Hayes I've still been using the tab songbooks that I originally bought with the ocarina. Honestly, it's been surprisingly easy to pick up and learn. The biggest issue I'm dealing with currently is the fact that I have slight natural tremors in my hands. It makes it a little more difficult to make some of the quicker transitions from note to note. Other than that though, I'm really enjoying it and will probably be moving on to some more complex songs here soon.
One thing that I've noticed is that, at least in my case, the clay pendant ocarinas are not very durable. My daughter happened to drop mine once and, while it showed no outward signs of damage, it tended to have a hard time making the right sound on the highest notes afterward. The only thing I can think is that there may have been some internal cracking that occured. So I ordered a new one and haven't run into any problems since.
thank you so very much for the information . I intend to practice more once the weather subsides. I live with others in a farm house...and wouldnt want to offend. I plan on taking it hiking and kayaking come spring. i appreciate the help. Good luck with the playing. Keep in touch. Daniella
9/10 of people play ocarina because of the Legend of Zelda
Bejill Begill the other one wants to summon Lugia I guess
Tapion theme song
@ZERO Yep, this is bait.
@ZERO Dude. Even David started with Zelda. And do you have to be so hypocritical over a comment? Your like a more hypocritical version of me. And a 20 year old game be trendy in 2018? How many of these 9/10 people do you think are children? And if you were so keen on modern Entertainment being a spawn of satan then look at you. Your watching youtube, is that how you plan *on gettong laid afterwards"?
@Blake839
>Wind instrument
>Getting laid
Kek
I ordered my Ocarina 1 week ago (gemtune sweet potato AC) and it arrived yesterday. I started playing today and it so easy! It took me 5 minutes to learn "the lion sleeps tonight" (well thats pretty easy) and half an our for "the phantom of the opera"
I nearly watched every single tutorial of you X'D thanks for that
Hi there! Ahh, I have a question, if you don't mind(:
Is it your first instrument? I've never played anything before, but I'm so passionate about wanting to learn how to play the Ocarina! Anyways, if it was really that easy to learn for a beginner, I have no worries about ordering one for myself!^__^
Ookami x Kitsune Nope it's my second one. I' ve played the piano before. But they are tooooo different. It's so much fun to play the ocarina, you won't believe it :) GET ONE
Thank you for your input!(:
It's a song I wrote called the "OcTalk Jig". The full version will be on my upcoming album coming out next month :D
I JUST CAME HERE CAUSE I WANTED TO SUMMON EPONA D:
me too
Sadly... same
Chiki Char I wanted to fly to hawiwi.
Chiki Char tame a horse irl name it epona badaboom badabang
PrimalCyndaquil yes
Wow I remember watching this when I was 10, I’m 24 now. Thank you for the childhood memories David 🙏🏻
You know, when I first heard of the Legend of Zelda and the Ocarina of Time, I was like "What the f**k is an ocarina?". I just thought it was some sort of magical item made up from the fictional world that is the Legend of Zelda.
Then I watched an episode of Adventure Time called "Ocarina" and I asked my brother "Is thing for real?" I probably was not paying much attention to the episode as some AT episodes do that to me, but my brother informed me that it was an instrument. And here I was thinking that it was some sort of talisman thingy.
LOLXD the sound are much soothing and welcoming compared to those annoying plastic recorder kids get in middle school. I recently dig up the old sticker clad thing and played a tune and got sick of the weird sound. I should try to find a good one and learn to play. Your vid was great. Thumbs up =)
IKR???!?
Exactly the same mate, genuinely didn't realise for years it was a real instrument.
This comment is years old but I thought the exact same and learned through adventure time that it was a real instrument too, wack
I just got a 12 hole tenor (Zelda version). I already play clarinet but it's weird not being able to just play right from the start. Apparently I'll have to go through some of the basics to get used to it.
It really depends on the ocarina. Where did you buy yours? Do you have a link?
David Erick Ramos
It's STL Ocarina. It came with a rupee 6-hole soprano. www.stlocarina.com/ztenor3s.html
It sounds fine from what I can tell, I just didn't think about needing some time for things like ensuring the holes get covered properly with each new note or that my fingers cover the main hole, completely, when using the sub-holes. (basic beginners things that come with a new instrument). After learning one instrument, It feels like I should automatically be able to play all others. Though it's really just because I don't feel like "learning" again.
I can already play a few zelda songs, albeit a bit slower. The booklets I got use numbers instead of notes, so I'll probably look up the standard sheet music soon so I can tie my fingers to actual notes.
UltimateMustacheX Where do you get one that would cost less? Like one without the little rupee would make it cost less? Just one nearly the same just less expensive and without the rupee ocarina
UltimateMustacheX Nvm. I found one that has exactly the same title after searching in your title and it is exactly the same without rupee and only cost $50 dollars and made by the same people with same samples and everything. The only thing is that it doesn't have the song book... I might just buy the one you got.
UltimateMustacheX i have the same one
This might sound like marketing for David, but I would say his Guide to ocarinas is the best way to tell what you want. I sure as heck know it would have helped me pick a better ocarina than the one I got first...
this guy had been in my liked videos, but I hadn't realised how awesome he was
subscribed
I subscribed just listen to his playing! Didn't realize he also made videos of lessons and gave advice about all the different Ocarinas.
(My sister, Who has never had a desire to play any type of wind instrument, now owns 2, and I now have 3.)
Both of us are learning to play, with David Erick Ramos' help, through the videos he makes!
While not speaking to the "subject matter", I happen to think that this is one of the very best instructional videos I have ever seen on UA-cam.
Whoever you are young man, you are very professional in your presentation. None of the "aaaahhhs or aaaaaaaahmmmms" between sentences, but a very fluid presentation.
Thanks for a nice lessonon Ocarinas, well done, and good luck.
Bill Tyler
"Having some sort of ocarina is better than having none at all." the greatest quote in mankind.
I adore the sound of the ocarina in the beginning! May I please ask what type that is? I will look forward to your answer.
no replies, rip
No
Hello, thank you for this video!
I have dreamed of playing an ocarina since childhood, and I decided to finally do it this week and luckily saw your video!
Can you PLEASE help me with a few questions, though?
1. My inspiration was definitely the Zelda games, but I want one that sounds and plays well. Can you please suggest a brand/maker with a similar style one or maybe even a replica or 3 (for options) which are actually good/well made?
2. Which of the tones/pitches are the one used in the Zelda franchis? Particularly in the original NES and SNES games? While I desire to play MUCH more than game themes/intros, I still have that childhood dream of being able to play the NES Zelda and SNES Zelda intros at a whim. :)
3. Were the ones for the above mentioned games 8 or 10 holes?
Thank you!!!!
1. Songbird made some replica's
don't know the other answers, sorry.
Mylena Corazza Well, thank you for answer 1 at least. :)
Would you say Songbird's replica is of decent quality?
Is it playable? Or is it just something to put on a table or hang on a wall to look pretty/geeky?
Thank you again!
Matthias Drake I don't own one myself, but every Ocarina player says Songbird is amazing! With the replica, I'm sure they're great, they cost 108 dollars tho. Stl Ocarina has some too! Btw, I think the original game one has 7 holes, but I'm not sure.
Mylena Corazza You have been an amazing help! Thank you!
Now to fail for a good while with a wind instrument as I learn. I expect many annoyed neighbors. >_
i am only ten looking for a ocarina.i dont care if its hard to start but i want one easy to carry and has a really nice tune and it also has to look cool to impress my friends. i will be checking back on this comment in a couple days to see if you respond.thank you very much
I know you probably won't see this; but this was the video that inspired me to get my own ocarina... you will forever hold a place in my heart. Bless you.
It's a jig I wrote called "The Traveller" and it's available on my debut album, "Leave Luck to Heaven". You can download the song on iTunes and Loudr.fm :D
...i rlly need to get a job *_._*
There are Some cheap ocarina's
I want an ocarina becuase i want relax and play my own music
i can't believe it's been 10 years since i saw this video
1) How easy they are to play/master depends on yourself and how much time you want to put into it. Usually it doesn't take too long to get a feel for it, but of course it'll take time to master it much like anything else. 2) Most I've seen are tuned to the key of C, some may vary. 3) I'd definitely recommend songbird ocarinas. I've always heard good feedback about them. They have two different Zelda replicas right now I believe.
Wow! David, thank you for making a concise, organized and well considered video. The humor is invaluable.....love the way you started this film :) Best of luck to you and again, thank you for giving me the most information for a rank beginner. God bless!
I'm a flute/piccolo player.
I'm gonna start with a soprano, and then move to a pendant ocarina and a multi-chamber!!
I like your idea
+Jaden Kim Like ur name, Just like mine
Great iDeal
You should move to a basic 12 hole before a double chamber. Pendants and transverse play a lot differently. Trust me. I know.
so is a 12-hole Ocarina a bad pick for a beginner? or should I get a sweet potato instead. I can't choose between them. I can't play any instuments.
Thansk!. I have nothing against practice, but I will take the 8-hole into consideration
Wilson P. Higgsbury I have actually looked at that one before xD
I mean I have the 12 hole alto and it is good it is ok to transport it and it is easy to were but this was my only ocarina
And now I have played a lot on my old recorder, that I had forgotten I had, I understand notes and holes and that stuff much better :D Not entirely the same, but still. I can't wait to buy it now that I got money xD
If you're a loz fan and you just st want an ocarina get the ocarina of time kokiri edition from songbird ocarina. If you again want an instrument to start with check out STL ocarina
Hello David. How durable is an Ocarina ? Will it break if it's dropped ? They look shinny and a bit slippery. I would hate to pay $100 bucks or so and then drop it.
I just have to say, your videos helped me a big bunch when choosing my first ocarina (I went to Songbird Ocarinas) and are now helping me learn to master the art of playing it that much faster. Keep up the good work, and I look forward to more videos!
I ordered my dragon tooth ocarina last night. It's the strawfired extra quiet from Songbird. I chose songbird because I have an elbow deformation that doesn't allow my ulna and radius to properly rotate giving me very little range of motion to turn my wrist. The dragon tooth seems to require the last range of motion and still sounds lovely. I liked the idea of the EQ because I like the fact that it's fairly even blow for all the holes (except the lowest notes). I'm excited!
You know what i wanna do? Dress up as Link,buy a replica of Link's ocarina that you have,and learn how to play some of the song and then imma just go though the streets of Prague and see how many people recognise me
I heard that Ocarina of Time replicas are cheap and bad
GoldenGames 360 I wouldn't say that. I have the 7-hole replica by Songbird Ocarina and it's lovely.
Dar grip Hax I might do this for halloween
4:28
well, i should be all right then
*sarcastically* Which ocarina should a beginner get?
I'd say a pendant
I FINALY got around to doing this...
Thank you so much for this video! This message probably sounds all to familiar, but I must admit, you are the one person that actually persuaded my mum to let me play the most beautiful instrument ever crafted!
Recieved my Focalink AC double Ocarina today, and it plays beautifuly! Debated the standard 12 hole or the Double for a good few weeks, and Im more thann satisfied! May be an old video, but you still gave me a hugely informative description on the ocarinas that i needed to make a solid choice. Thank you so much, and keep up the crazy awesome performances!
I got hurt in Afghanistan, is there any way I can play one with only a thumb on one hand and 2 fingers on the other?
Ugly Casanova You could get an ocarina custom made or one with no thumb holes.
Ugly Casanova prosthetic fingers🤗🤗
Ugly Casanova Tell me your joking
Who else is watching this in 2018
KID REYES me
Me right here
@@sunnyestrada5381 same
me
Damn near 2019 and I'm watching it.
I really like the soprano, but half of my family has sensitive ears...
Your family can suffer a little, it's not a big deal.
Okay, this is all totally new to me! I had never HEARD of an ocarina before (aaaand...I've never seen "Zelda") I watched STL Ocarina's "Misty Mountain Cold" a moment ago. Now, I think I want one! The tenor (Zelda version) looks like the one to get. I THANK YOU, David, for this info and I will be checking out some of your other vids.
You are one of the most responsible information givers ever.
Am I the only one that is watching this in 2015?
Adrianna Chavez 2017 man :D
Word.
2019
Dat opening tho. cx
I just want to play the song of time
I bet everyone has an ocarina for that
Started with a 12 hole Taiwanese style. Was not disappointed. Your videos on how to play helped me so much. One year later, I got a bass C four hole for Christmas and had to learn the whole thing all over again. XD Totally worth it, I have no regrets.
I am only 14 and am a newbie to Ocarinas and this has been incredibly helpful! I am thinking a Alto pendant for myself but am going to look into it first!
Thanks so much for making this!
Choosing your first virginity device.
you're wrong.
Jonathan vazquez man, with the vids you post you don't even need an ocarina to protect yours.
kawaii nani Lol you're absolutely correct. I can't get none *cries*
Jonathan vazquez
You're not alone, dude.
HAHAHA
Only clicked because you look like Elliot Rodger.
HE'S LYING! My ocarina was a 12 hole alto c loz replica $12... It sounds and plays the same as the one in your video.. Has cool box art too...
+Ethan Greene I have the same one
+Ramiro Sandoval lol
+Ethan Greene Which one are you playing? Could you post a link, please?
ebay
ReicherKilla a link get it : D
man this video just popped in my head out of nowhere, I used to watch it so much I still remember every line
Also, thx for the videos. My siblings hate my recorder, so I promised them I'd replace it with the ocarina, and you got me more excited about it.
ive made my decision , thanks, songbird and hind ocarinas are now my primary ocarina shopping websites, and I know what im going to order so thank you very much, even though this isn't my first ocarina I still thought this video taught me a lot, the one I have a a plastic manufactured one, I didn't spend too much because I wasn't sure id like the ocarina or not, but now I know I do and am going to invest a lot more money into them, thanks for the advice again
Hi, David!! Love your videos. I've been thinking about ocarinas for a while and decided to go out and buy one today. I chose a Songbird teardrop pendant in soprano G. I love it already. It's a little small, but it doesn't shriek and it sounds really great. I wouldn't have had any idea which to start with without your videos. Thanks!!
Alright sensei, here we go. Got a 12-hole and can't wait to play some Zelda tunes properly. Who knows, I might even upload a video or two. You're a total inspiration!
Thanks for posting some information on Ocarina's! Saved me a lot of time from googling and reading about which one I should get.
Just bought the Zelda Ocarina because my fiancé is addicted to the games, I figured it'd be a cute idea to learn to play for him and surprise him on our 7 year anniversary! I also got the Nightingale ocarina for a more long term one to play. It being bigger will work for my larger hands, it's sounds beautiful, and I'm not worried about portability. -3 thanks for all your videos!
Hi David. I just got the star key ocarina. It's still in the package because I'm waiting for Christmas to open it. I know that it's generally not for beginners, however I've been a musician for 9 years playing guitar and piano by ear and I do have a knack at picking up other instruments and playing them as teachers, feeling into their sounds to make melodies with them. I was wondering if I could glimpse your perception on this Ocarina. I appreciate your response in simply reading this and I appreciate your awe inspiring work and dedication to your craft. Peace Love & Balance, Brandon.
I wish I found this video a week ago... I bought a huge gaudy English pendant style ocarina (thinking it would be no large than 2 inches). And I come to find out that I could get smaller ones for half what I paid for.
Thanks for the reviews and posting favorite sellers, now I'm a bit more educated on my next buy.
Loved your Sorrow and Sadness video! Gave me the goosebumps haha. But, thank you for the tips. I already have two Ocarina's; 6 hole SongBird and a 12 hole(not sure the exact name for it, tis a Zelda replica). I'm looking forward to buying one; preferably the one you used in the Sorrow and Sadness video, in the near future. I shall use this video as a reference. Thanks!
That's a really tough question because there are many different ocarinas with many different characteristics, so it's more a question of what you're looking for. However, my favorite ocarina at the moment would have to be my Rotter C3 from Austria :D
such an old school youtube video, informative and short, clean and to the point! I like you! you have a nice looking channel , but you know im here for zelda!!! lmao
Just got my first real ocarina today by mail! a STL 12 hole Zelda Tenor in Black. I really love the sound of it but i have a lot of work learning the music basics (notes and stuff). I still really love to just play around and discover melodies !
I bought the Dragon Tooth Ocarina as my first one. I am very excited to learn it!
Yea, I play flute and sax (amongst other things, bein a music major and all) and I had no trouble picking it up at all, just need lots of practice with playing speed on the high notes while still holding the silly thing. but it's super fun, well worth the effort I love mine!
Very informative, thanks! I just wanted to suggest another ocarina seller, STL Ocarina. that's where I got mine and I love it. The one I got was only $25 (at Comic con though, online is a tad higher). I got the beginner Zelda one and it's made of hard plastic, I play a few different woodwind instruments, so I was hesitant to get a plastic one knowing that you get what you pay for, but being a new you gotta buy the cheap one before you get the pro. I am very happy with it's sound and quality.
Thanks a lot David , the day I started watching your vids I ordered my first ocarina can't wait to play it 😄
So I went to Otakon this year and purchased my first Ocarina on the last day of the con, mainly cause it was a Zelda-esque Ocarina. Its a 12-Hole Plastic C Major Ocarina I believe. Despite my reason for getting it, I actually am beginning to consider possibly purchasing other Ocarina's as well and learning how to play them (never really tried learning how to play an instrument until now but the Ocarina intrigues me). I haven't really gotten breath conrol down I don't think but hey practice :).
Also, I totally agree you HAVE to listen to the sound of each one if you can, an ocarina may look pretty but not be what you like to listen to. I drove the vendors crazy having them play each one (some twice for comparison) before I made my choice. It took like 30 mins, but was totally worth it.
bought an ocarina from you today at comicon and love it. thanks!
It's called the OcTalk! Jig, and I'm working on the longer version for my upcoming album :D
That really shouldn't be a problem, I'll be able to adapt to that quite quickly. Thank's for letting me know though, I'm very curious about the specifics of the instrument at the moment.
thank you for helping me pick the best choice, David!
I got a cheap zelda replica, and I’m quite happy. Somehow the ocarina is decently tuned (I’m a bass player), plus it looks good.
I have three questions:
1) How easy are Zelda ocarinas to play/master? (Ocarina of Time replica)
2) What range is a Zelda ocarina? (I have a dog)
3) What website would you recommend to get a Zelda ocarina? (for both playing and collecting)
The intro and editing at the start is really good
I can correct you. I just ordered a ceramic alto c (sweet potato) ocarina for 20 bucks. It plays really well. I got it on Amazon from a seller named Winterworm.
although, an ocarina is only as good as the tabs you can learn for it... or your ability to recreate those sounds... either way, pattern recognition really helped me leaning the ocarina... i started on lion sleeps tonight then jumped to hedwigs theme followed by hes a pirate... now I'm working on once upon a December...
I bought a pendant ocarina and a songbook which, it turns out, was transcribed by you, docjazz!
I started with a Songbird Seedpod in soprano, the highest notes are crazy but I'm getting to know it pretty well. I want an alto seedpod and a twelve hole once I get a little better.
the song in mid intro is awesome. thanks for such an informative video.
I woke up today, and i saw a Peruvian ocarina in my stocking. I was so excited, but i was a bit disappointed. I had seen this video before, but I am still excited about learning a bit! Hopefully I can get a better pendant or something soon!
I just love the song he plays and the sound the ocarina makes!
I just wanted to thank you, you are the reason I became interested in playing the Ocarina.
As soon as I either have a lot of money to buy some stuff on my vacation AND get an ocarina, or after my vaca... Well, point is, I'm definitely trying to get one of these. This is a really cool instrument... And thanks 4 the vid! :)
It sounds great man! Hopefully you can make a tutorial when you release it, for us ocarina noobs. Keep up the good work David
My first ocarina was a gift years ago brought back with a relative from when they visited the grand cannon. It was a Peruvian ocarina. The one you didn't recommend XD however I loved it and learned a few easy songs on it. Sadly it got broken a few months later when I fell and it went flying out of my hands. Now years later I'm thinking of buying another ocarina but wasn't sure if I should get a different one or not and this video was very helpful so thanks.
I would assume any experience playing a woodwind instrument would help, considering the Ocarina is a woodwind. If you ignore that, I would still say yes, because you're not going to have issues reading your music, keeping good time, etc unlike people who are totally new.
Never give up your dreams guys. I watched this video when it was uploaded 10 years ago and today I buyed my first ocarina xD
What i would recommend to you guys is the soprano ceramic (12 holes) which won't be hard to play and won't make sound error (but which is louder too) and won't need breath training.
Alto c 12 notes would need a certain breath training, at least with ther highter notes as the one i just bough in plastic 20$ don't do that).
But still i haven't tried all them out. i just think ceramic is the best if you compare to plastic. It makes a more clear sound. I will have to try wood now.
@im4youdead example: Zelda's lullaby. I know it. I can play along fine, but mastering it means playing it perfectly. Mastering your breath, breath control etc, getting the pitchs perfect all that stuff :3
Great video. Helped me a lot. Can you make a video comparing the differences between wood, clay, and plastic ocarinas? That would be amazing, and very helpful! Please and thank you.
Yes it's okay. You can search ocarina and click the first one from STLocarina and click his name again to view all the ocarina's he has. some are expensive so be alert to the prices.
Songbird is definitely my favorite provider, they have an excellent variety of ocarinas available.
Sweet potato refers to the classic Italian shaped ocarina. ( Ocarina actually means "little goose" for the avian profile shape more commonly referred to as sweet potato nowadays.)
I have a med-high 6 hole (two on bottom four on top) pendant ocarina from songbird ocarinas. It plays well and it looks amazing
It's mostly just a preference. Of course, ocarinas of different materials will sound different, but it's not really a great annoyance.
I suppose the biggest reason that wood is better than clay is that when it hits hard flooring, it doesn't shatter. Happened to me, really sucks losing an expensive ocarina.
You can learn the fingering for the notes easier than the pendant because of the linear style but the actual playing is more difficult because of the number of finger holes.
You know that there is something called a hand ocarina right? or bird call. you just cup your hands tightly and lightly blow above the hole between your thumb knuckles. you don't need to pay anything for it. and you can tune it by tightening your hands or making them a bit more loose. I can play all the Zelda songs on it and even envented some. :)
I always come back to this video whenever I need an escape from life, and adulthood.
I haven't bought an ocarina yet, but I'm thinking about it. I have a friend who bought one because she loves Zelda, and it's her first instrument. Whereas, I already play the flute, recorder, clarinet, violin etc. I'm assuming someone like myself would be best to start with a non-plastic double ocarina. The Zelda ocarina has too small of a range for my tastes. I like 2 octaves, at least, covering low C to the C 2 lines above the staff.
I just received an Ocarina for a birthday gift and this video was very helpful!! Thanks now I'm SIKED about learning how to play it. (Mines is an alto 12holed)