Check out this amazing iPhone application, called Ocarina, that has currently got all of us in stitches or in awe! I have come across Guitar and Drum applications or simulations for the iPhone, but this has to take the cake! To get it to work, the program requires you to blow into the iPhone microphone thus turning your iPhone into a “true musical instrument”. Not only that, the software takes advantage of the iPhone’s accelerometer to control the depth (front to back) and rate (side to side) at which your music is produced!
Ocarina is the first true musical instrument created for the iPhone. Both experts and beginners will be amazed by this innovative player. Ocarina is sensitive to your breath, touch and movements, making it even more versatile than the original. 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. Or channel your favorite video game adventurer with Smule’s Zeldarian mode.
Ocarina is also designed to be a social platform, allowing you to connect up with other Ocarina players from around the world and listen to them play on a very cool interface!
Also most gamers can easily see that this application was inspired by Link and his Ocarina from the classic Role Playing Game The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. What a great “tip of the hat”!
Intrigued, I went to the Smule: Ocarina website and discovered that this software company, Smule, was founded by a group of people that are also from the Stanford University Laptop Orchestra! Check out the team playing “Stairway to Heaven!”
Unlimited enjoyment, social fun and gratification for Geeks who missed going to music school, all for a measly sum of $0.99! What are you waiting for go get it at the Ocarina site. You can also find musical scores and tips on how to play your iPhone Ocarina better.
PS: I bought my own.
PPS: And yes there is a real Ocarina!
Original Post: http://www.designsojourn.com/behold-the-ocarina-the-first-musical-instrument-for-the-iphone/