Ocarina Musical Instrument Could Be iPhone Killer App

Ocarina is the first iPhone musical instrument that is sensitive to your breath, touch and movements, making it even more versatile than the original. There is nothing like it on the App Store. To play  Ocarina, you need to blow gently into iPhone’s sensitive microphone. A small gold arrow guides you where to blow. 

Unlike other musical applications, there are no pre-compiled riffs so musicians will find unlimited opportunities for self-expression. Advanced options allow you to choose between diatonic, minor and harmonic scales.

The ocarina is an ancient family of instrument, believed to date some 12,000 years, and reportedly one of the easiest instruments to learn. In Ocarina, you can choose to tune your instrument using 8 sets of pitches called modes. They are Ionian, Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aeolian, Locrian, and Zeldarian. These modes can be thought of as patterns of notes, similar to scales, which are based on a starting pitch called the root. The mode consists of certain notes from a musical scale above and below the root. To make a clear separation between the notes, say the word “tu” or “du.” This technique is called “tonguing.”

Tap on the globe icon and you will see and hear other Ocarina players throughout the world. The globe view will highlight the source of the music. You can rate your favorite melodies and name your performances, so others can enjoy them too. With this robust application beautiful music is created, appreciated and shared. Please be advised that a learning curve is required to master this instrument. Price: $0.99 (download).