What exactly is an Ocarina? Its origins may surprise you, especially considering the relative enigma status that that it has. Briefly, I will explain a little bit about what we now call an Ocarina.
An Ocarina is a very ancient wind instrument, of which the specific origins are hard to find. This haunting instrument dates thousands of years into the past, being traced to Oriental and Mesoamerican culture.
The Chinese and Japanese held the Ocarina as very important for their culture, and it shined as a center piece in their long history of singing and dancing, even preforming in royal ceremonies.
Japan's traditional Ocarina is called tsuchibue, (土笛) literally 'Earthen Flute'. Even today, the Ocarina is well known in Japan, and seen as a unique piece of history rather than just an instrument.
Ocarinas were introduced to Europe through explorations to Mesoamerica. From there, it became popular in Europe. However, it was considered as only a toy instrument instead of the independent and versatile instrument. That idea of the Ocarina has carried on to today, many times seen as a toy.
However, in the 19th century in Budrio, Italy, a man named Giuseppe Donati saw the true potential of the Ocarina, and transformed Europe's 'toy' (which was only able to play a few notes) into an instrument, finally bringing it up to speed with what the Chinese and Japanese had appreciated for thousands of years. Originally Europe called it a Gemshorn, (made from animal horns of the Gemsbok), but since Donati's transformation the name 'Ocarina' (Little Goose) was given it.
Even still, the Ocarina remains relatively unknown in North America. Most do not know what it is, and few play it as more than a toy or a trinket. Ocarinists, however, would agree that it is unique, beautiful, and it reaches deep inside of them, becoming a part of who they are. Ocarinists let their Ocarina sing for them, acting as their voice amongst the vast array of other instruments. Either blending in as an accompanist or taking the lead with its voice, the Ocarina can hold enchanting beauty in voice and body.
Special thanks to,
Zelda Moon, Flickr
http://www.flickr.com/photos/zeldamoon/249853875/in/photostream/
