Re: London International Exhibition of Early Music

EMARGERUM@mecn.mass.edu
Mon, 12 Aug 1996 23:48:49 -0400 (EDT)

Date sent: 12-AUG-1996

> There are many makers of less important instruments like ocarinas
and
> violins also represented.

What is an ocarina?

Whatza ocarina! An ocarina is a primitive woodwind usually made out
of terracotta and shaped somewhat like a zeppelin. You blow into the
cabin and finger the holes on the gasbag. It was originally introduced by
G. Donati of Budrio, Italy around 1860 and had a brief spin of
success. Sometimes it is called a "sweet potato" from its shape.
There was a hit tune around 1950 called "Dance to the Music of the
Ocarina" which featured the instrument. The instrument sounds somewhat
like a pennywhistle, but rounder in tone and without the definition.
This is the instrument to get for your enemy's unmusical child. The kid
will love it and possible even learn a tune. (I suggest you include "Lady
of Spain".) Your enemy will go stark raving mad.

Ed Margerum
emargerum@mecn.mass.edu