Ocarinas / Music

Performing

The art of a good performance is to give your audience confidence and pleasure in your playing. Always tackle pieces that are well rehearsed and within your capability. Add introductions, endings and harmonies whenever possible to 'wrap up' your tune like a well packaged gift.

By linking tunes, you can create medleys that are more interesting than lots of short, individual pieces. Find tunes that have a similar rhythm and, ideally, are in contrasting keys. Play tune A followed by tune B and back to tune A; this will give a sense of journey and arrival that is very satisfying. The many rounds and harmonies in Play your Ocarina books are perfect for group playing. Your audience may also enjoy singing along with familiar songs.

Use live accompaniment and CD backings to support your playing. If you play in a group, mix instruments so that ocarinas, guitars, flutes and others all play together. Different size ocarinas, particularly Mini and Bass, can add colour to any piece. See videos of Masquerade Ocarinas for ideas of how to develop a group. Remember the value of playing a simple tune well. This can be just as impressive as playing more showy and complex pieces.

At Ocarina Workshop, we aim to support all that is good in music education, music in the community and music in the home. If you have any ocarina comments, suggestions and news, please email info@ocarina.co.uk. We are always pleased to hear from ocarina players and teachers and wish you well on your musical journey.