He has asked me to introduce this technique in english to everyone at Ocarinas United
This is a technique that is unique to the Alto C ocarina (A4 to F6) range. I did my best to translate the email...
Today I will provide you with a piece of information regarding the Alto C ocarina.
Generally speaking, the Alto C ocarina has a special playing technique that is not used in any other ocarinas of different keys. Many ocarina players use this technique when using the Alto C ocarina.
This technique focuses on making the high tones of Re, Mi, Fa (D, E, F) resonate as cleanly as possible.
In Korean this technique is widely known as "Kkogi" ("acute bend")
I do not know if there is an english equivalent for this ocarina technique, but you can give a name for it.
Instructions:
Normally when you play the ocarina, you usually maintain your posture and hand position.
However, when making the high D, E, F tones on the Alto C ocarina, while the ocarina mouthpiece is in your mouth, bend forward a bit as though you're bowing to someone and pull the ocarina towards your chest. The ocarina should become 'upright' and horizontal to the ground.
In this position, keep the ocarina at about 10cm distance from the chest. You should get a very clean, pure sound on your high D, E, F notes if you do this right. Even when you breathe strongly in this position, the ocarina will still sound clean.
This technique is only relevant for Alto C (Tenor C) ocarinas.
The reason for this has to do with the characteristics of Frequency. It has to do with the frequency between 1000Hz - 1500Hz and the air pressure inside the ocarina. When the air coming out of the sound hole touches your chest, it will increase the interior air pressure enabling the ocarina to vibrate well giving a clean, resonant tone.
Regards,
Min Soo Kim
I have tried to use this technique on my high notes of the Alto C. Indeed, I do get clearer, more resonant notes on the top 3 notes of the ocarina
I hope this helps in making the high notes of your Alto C (tenor) ocarinas
Thank you Mr. Kim for this teaching.
Now, what shall we call this technique in english?
