🎵 Key Takeaway
Can't play fast? Your brain knows the notes, but your fingers are "lagging." To fix this, you need to practice Trills (rapidly alternating notes) and Finger Independence exercises. Speed comes from relaxation, not force.
You are trying to play a fast jig or a video game battle theme.
Your tongue is fast enough (thanks to Double Tonguing). But your fingers? They feel like frozen sausages. They stumble, they miss holes, and they get tangled.
You need to take your fingers to the gym.
Exercise 1: The "Trill" Workout
A trill is when you alternate between two notes as fast as possible (e.g., C-D-C-D-C-D).
The Drill:
- Start with C to D (Right Pinky). Lift and drop it rapidly for 10 seconds.
- Move to D to E (Right Ring Finger). This is the hardest finger! It is naturally weak. Train it until it burns.
- Move to E to F (Right Middle Finger).
Do this every day. It builds the tiny muscles in your hand.
Built for Speed
To play fast trills, you need an ocarina with a smooth, responsive glaze. The Gradient Green Ocarina features a polished finish that allows your fingers to dance over the holes without getting stuck.
Shop Gradient Green →
Exercise 2: The "Spider" (Independence)
Put all fingers down (Low C).
Now, try to lift ONLY your Ring Fingers (Left and Right) at the same time, while keeping all other fingers glued down.
Hard, right? Your Ring finger wants to pull the Middle finger up with it. You must break this connection.
Exercise 3: Scales for Speed
Play the C Major scale up and down. Start slow.
Use a metronome (there are free apps). Set it to 60 BPM. Play one note per beat.
Then try 2 notes per beat. Then 4 notes per beat.
If you make a mistake, slow down. Practicing mistakes only makes you better at making mistakes.
The Ultimate Speed Test
Once your fingers are flying, you will run out of room on a 12-hole. The Triple Ocarina allows you to play fast scales across 3 full octaves. It is the standard instrument for virtuoso solos.
Upgrade to Triple Ocarina →
Summary
Speed is a byproduct of accuracy. Relax your hands, keep your fingers close to the holes, and practice your trills.
