The
ocarina is an ancient
folk instrument found in all parts of the
world, in
infinite shapes and tunings. It originated in Central and
South America where it was used by
native tribes. Each tribe had its own "tuning" and could be identified at a distance from the
music played.
The tone of an ocarina is haunting, rich, and
unique.
The word "ocarina" means "little goose egg" in Italian, referring to the shape that was developed there. Later, in
America, it became known as the "
sweet potato". Because the ocarinas are made in relatively small, globular shapes, they are quite strong.
They sound
magical (if properly tuned).