6-Hole vs. 12-Hole Ocarina: What’s the Difference? - Buy Ocarinas Online

🎼 6-Hole vs. 12-Hole Ocarina: What’s the Difference?

When stepping into the world of ocarinas, one of the first questions new players ask is: Should I start with a 6-hole or a 12-hole ocarina? Both have their own charm, and choosing the right one depends on your musical goals and personal preferences.

In this post, we’ll compare the two most popular ocarina types so you can decide which is best for you.

🪈 1. Number of Holes = Range and Control

6-Hole Ocarina:
- Typically covers one full octave (8 notes).
- Simple to learn, with fewer finger combinations.
- Great for beginners, children, and casual players.
12-Hole Ocarina:
- Usually covers an octave and a half (up to 13+ notes).
- Allows for more complex songs and better expression.
- Requires more finger coordination but offers greater musical flexibility.

🎵 Summary: 6-hole is easier; 12-hole has a wider range.

🎵 2. Musical Possibilities

6-Hole:
- Ideal for folk melodies, children’s songs, and simple tunes.
- Limitations in note range may restrict some musical genres.
12-Hole:
- Can play classical music, film scores, pop songs, and even video game themes like Zelda.
- Preferred by intermediate and advanced players.

🎵 Summary: Choose 12-hole if you want to grow musically over time.

✋ 3. Learning Curve

6-Hole:
- Quick to pick up. Many players can play simple songs in a day.
- Easier to memorize fingerings.
12-Hole:
- Slightly more complex. May take a week or two to feel confident.
- Offers more challenge and room for improvement.

🎵 Summary: 6-hole is better for instant fun. 12-hole rewards patience.

🎨 4. Design and Aesthetic Differences

6-Hole:
- Often pendant-shaped, small, and worn around the neck.
- Highly portable, ideal for travel or casual use.
12-Hole:
- Usually “sweet potato” (transverse) shape.
- Feels more like a professional instrument; often comes in artistic ceramic finishes.

🎵 Summary: 6-hole is compact. 12-hole looks and feels more professional.

🧑‍🏫 5. Which One Should You Choose?

Choose a 6-hole ocarina if you:

Want something simple and fun
Are buying for a child or a total beginner
Prefer something very lightweight and portable

Choose a 12-hole ocarina if you:

Plan to play a wide variety of songs
Want to improve and grow as a player
Appreciate deeper tone and a professional feel

✅ Conclusion

Both the 6-hole and 12-hole ocarinas have their strengths. The 6-hole offers simplicity and charm, while the 12-hole opens the door to more musical possibilities. If you’re serious about learning and want room to grow, the 12-hole ocarina is the way to go. But if you’re just exploring or want something fun to start with, the 6-hole will bring you joy too.